Its that time again! The stores are full of clearance items as new items are put on the racks for the coming season. Its time to shop!

The sales are in full swing and you love a good bargain. The question is, are you getting a bargain when you are buying clothing that doesn't fit or doesn't match anything else you own?

Yes, those shoes are an awesome shade of lime green and at a "close-out" price. Yes, that purse is incrediblely purple and such a bargain. And yes, that blouse will stop a crowd and its practically free.

But before you head to the stores looking for bargains decide how much money you want to spend. A great sale has the potential to be a spending trap that will leave your pocketbook empty and your closet overstuffed with items that you will wish you had never bought.

So what's a girl to do? She needs some self-control and a few rules to guide the way to coming home with true deals on great clothes.

Rule # 1. Know exactly what you need. Take inventory of your clothing and write a list of items that will expand your wardrobe – a black skirt that you can wear with five shirts all ready in your closet.

Rule # 2. Buy only what you need. If you have six gold shirts that are in good condition and exactly the style, chances are you probably don’t really need another one.

Rule # 3. If you are working with a budget stay away from hard to match items. The hot pink, glittery shirt may not match anything in your closet.

Rule #4. Don’t be seduced by a low price. No matter how expensive it was if it doesn’t fit don’t buy it. Even if its a designer jacket at a low, low price if it doesn't suit your body type and is too snug (or loose) you probably won't wear it.

Rule #5. Shop prepared. If you are looking for a particular skirt to wear with a jacket, wear the jacket. If you are looking for a new pair of heels for your slacks, wear the slacks. Many mistakes are made because the item required for matching hangs in your closet at home.

Have a great time at those sales but be smart! A bargain isn't a bargain if the purchases only add to your closet clutter.

Girls, get going!

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