Scoring the best high-end department store buys doesn’t mean paying top dollar. If you love browsing luxe brands but don’t love the hit to your wallet, there’s good news.
With a few smart shopping moves, you can grab designer fashion, premium beauty picks, and top-shelf home goods without breaking your budget.
Here’s how to shop smart and save big at your favorite upscale retailers.
Know When to Shop
Timing is everything when it comes to department store deals. The biggest discounts usually happen during:
- End-of-season clearances (January, July)
- Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday)
- Friends and Family sales (offered a few times per year)
- After-Christmas and inventory blowouts
Mark your calendar and shop the back end of each season. That’s when stores make room for new inventory and slash prices on last season’s styles.
Shop the Sale Sections First
It sounds obvious, but many shoppers skip the clearance racks in favor of new arrivals. Don’t. Head straight to the sale section—online or in-store—and start there.
In high-end department stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, or Saks, clearance doesn’t mean junk. It often means past-season designer clothes, shoes, and handbags marked down 40 to 70 percent.
Combine markdowns with stackable coupons or promotions when possible. Sometimes you’ll find luxury brands at fast fashion prices.
Don’t Ignore Outlet Versions
Most luxury department stores have outlet versions or partner stores with deep discounts:
- Nordstrom Rack (for Nordstrom)
- Saks OFF 5TH (for Saks Fifth Avenue)
- Last Call (for Neiman Marcus, though some locations have closed)
These stores carry clearance items from the main store, as well as separate lines made specifically for outlets. You’ll find brand names like Theory, Vince, and Michael Kors at a fraction of retail.
Check both online and in-person. Some outlet websites offer flash deals and surprise promotions that don’t last long.
Use Store Apps and Loyalty Programs
Most high-end stores offer loyalty programs that can lead to serious savings:
- Nordy Club members earn points toward store rewards and get early access to sales
- Bloomingdale’s Loyallist members get free shipping and earn points on every purchase
- SaksFirst offers tiered rewards and private shopping events
Download the store’s app and opt in for notifications. You’ll get alerts for exclusive discounts, early access to sales, and personalized offers.
Also, sign up for email lists with a second “promo” email account to keep clutter out of your main inbox.
Stack Discounts Whenever Possible
Smart shoppers know how to stack deals. Look for:
- Promo codes on the retailer’s homepage
- Cashback offers from websites like Rakuten or TopCashback
- Credit card rewards or bonus point events
- Gift card promotions (buy a gift card and get a bonus card free)
These extra savings can often be combined with clearance items, making your total much lower than expected.
Know What’s Worth the Splurge
Even on a budget, not all items are worth buying just because they’re marked down.
Spend your money on items that hold their value, like:
- Timeless outerwear (wool coats, trench coats, leather jackets)
- Designer shoes or boots with long-lasting construction
- High-end denim
- Beauty or skincare bundles from premium brands
Avoid trendy items or anything you’re buying just because it’s cheap. The goal is to build a high-quality wardrobe—not a cluttered closet.
Shop Open Box and Returned Items
Some stores, especially online ones like Nordstrom, offer “open box” or returned items at a lower price. These are products in near-new condition, sometimes marked down just because the packaging was opened.
If you’re shopping for high-end beauty products, appliances, or home decor, check the clearance or final sale section. You might find luxury candles, designer pillows, or espresso machines for much less.
Just read the return policy carefully—some markdowns are final sale.
Use Credit Card Perks
Your credit card might help you score deals without even realizing it. Some premium cards offer:
- Monthly credits at department stores
- Bonus points for department store purchases
- Early access to partner store sales
- Extended return periods or purchase protection
Cards like American Express Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve often include these perks. Check your benefits guide and use them when you shop. If you’re curious which premium cards offer the best value, check out our guide to 10 Luxury Credit Cards Worth the Annual Fee.
You don’t need to pay top dollar to enjoy top-tier products. With smart timing, a little digging, and the right tools, you can shop at high-end department stores without breaking your budget.
Plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and shop strategically. Over time, those savings add up—giving you a luxury lifestyle at a fraction of the cost.
