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Learn How to Shop: 205 Expert Retail Tips

By Katie L. Connor

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Karin Catt

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Let’s not kid ourselves. Times are so hard, even those lucky enough to be employed feel ambivalent about wanting something new.
This guide was created to help you navigate the new shopping landscape. Whether you’re a socially conscious shopper or just out for a splurge, we’ve narrowed down the best websites, boutiques, thrift stores, and outlets across America — and the world.
Go forth and start shopping again — with confidence.

50 Best Fashion Stores in America

We shopped the country for the best stores right now.
40 Best Online Shopping Sites

These sites are paving new paths to chic closets.
13 Best Beauty Stores

Here's our short list of shops for splurges and steals.
Vintage Shopping 101

Cameron Silver drops some knowledge on shopping, old-school style.
Top 10 Outlets in America

Each of these bargain hubs has its own distinct hook that keeps shoppers coming back for more.
10 International Outlets Worth the Trek

Cash in those frequent flier miles, and bring home a worldly wardrobe.
7 Expert Online Shopping Tips

Expert tips for mastering online shopping.
21 Must-Have Items That Give Back

These items make you look and feel good—creating win-win style.
7 Best Women's Watches

Black-on-black watches give everyone something to tock about.
9 Best Clutches

Link downtown edge with uptown glamour with these chic clutches.
Gorgeous Gold Makeup Products

Go ahead, indulge. Each of these gorgeous gilty pleasures is less than 10 bucks.
6 Fall Makeup Palettes

These palettes snap (or slide) open to reveal fall’s most covetable colors.
6 Women’s Suede Boots

Plush suede ankle boots in punchy colors get fashion-forward toes tappin’.
7 Fall Perfumes

These splashy new fall fragrances strike all the right notes.
6 Best Skin Care Products

These supercharged skin saviors will leave you looking brighter, smoother, and better than ever.
Confessions of a Reluctant Shopper

"I grew up believing shopping was supposed to be fun. It didn’t quite turn out that way."

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