Like most fashionistas, I love 3.1 Phillip Lim, Opening Ceremony, Cacharel and other Fashion Week designers.  But like most Hill Staffers, I can’t afford to fill my closet with pieces from these lines.  So what’s a girl to do?

For a few months now, I have been stalking the sale section on La Garconne.  The pieces are usually marked down by fifty-percent, and for a sale section, they have a decent selection of sizes.  While the dresses that I gravitate toward are still $200-$300, that’s a definite improvement over the retail price.  And anytime that I can add a functional and fabulous piece to my wardrobe at a discounted price, I’m happy.

T by Alexander Wang Anorak ($100)

There is one drawback, however, the sales are all final.  If I order something and it doesn’t fit, I’ll throw it up on eBay for what I paid for it and sell it in a week.  Sometimes, if I don’t think eBay can deliver, I’ll consign it or sell it to a friend.  But is there a better way?

Ian RN Colorblock Blouse ($129)

The first thing is to be sure that the size you’re buying will fit you.  So, go to a department store and ask to try on a few pieces from the line.  Which size fits?  Which pieces might be a little big but could be altered?  Once you know how the brand runs, you can order with more confidence.  And even if you end up putting $50 into the alterations to make it fit perfectly, you will still have saved money.  Plus, you’ll have an impeccably-tailored piece.

Carven Drape Top Dress ($245)

$250 is a good price for a stylish, brand name, investment piece.  If you like the dress, the blouse or the blazer, and you believe that it would be a fantastic addition to your wardrobe, then fifty-percent-off should be more than enough incentive to bring it home.