To shop or not to shop?

Cost of living really has skyrocketed in Toronto, for one I can remember a time when houses didn’t cost you half a million dollars, for a prestigious 10x10 spot downtown. Remember when Payless shoes really did cost you less, when Canadian staples like Le Chateau and Aldo were well priced? Yeah me too. These days there has been a spike in the retail sector. Spikes in retail merchandise have lead me to think outside the fashion box. Vintage shopping is not just for the artsy crowd anymore. All over the city consignment shops and vintage stores have seen a rise in consumer ship. However while we should all support this renewing and eco friendly idea, it can become difficult to shop vintage when you are not a size XS or 0. I guess back in the 70’s girls never heard of McDonalds! I digress, vintage shopping really can be fun and because a lot of the merchandise is well priced you can afford to alter or hem your purchases.

As well as vintage shopping, it’s a good idea to head over to some of your favourite shops or their websites for some online shopping. Having worked several years in retail management I can tell you that collections both clothing and home décor come out a season early. That is why when we were in the dead of summer enjoying whatever sun we could get; the stores were already selling fall scarves, knee high boots and tights. It’s a good idea to check out your favourite stores because a lot of them are having sales.

At Aldo, the majority of the time a pair of great pumps will set you back over $100 but there are ways to multitask your purchases. Yes I said multitask...trust me. Right now Aldo has tons of clearance shoes on their on-line website, sure some of them are peep toe gladiator sandals, but with a little ingenuity and some opaque tights these shoes can be worn in the fall and then again in the summer. If that’s not a 2 for 1 special then I don’t know what is. $30 for real leather shoes...I think I love this idea!

Courtesy Google Images

Courtesy of Chictopia

Courtesy of Chictopia

So head on out and look for sales and deals, or stay in and shop from the comfort of your cozy couch.