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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.

Thinking of financing that big purchase? It might seem like a quick win—no big payment upfront, and you get what you want right away.

But before you say yes, take a step back. Financing is a long-term commitment, and if you’re not careful, it can cost more than you expect.

These five questions to ask before financing will help you make smart financing decisions, so you don’t end up with regret down the road.

1. Do I Really Need This Right Now?

It’s easy to get caught up in the moment. A sleek new laptop or dream couch can feel urgent. But sometimes “I need this” really means “I want this.”

Ask yourself:

• Is this item essential today?
• Can I wait and save up for it instead?
• Is there a cheaper option that works for now?

If your washer just broke, that’s a need. If you’re upgrading your TV during a sale, that’s a want. Knowing the difference helps you avoid taking on debt for the wrong reasons.

2. Can I Afford the Monthly Payments—Every Month?

The sticker price may seem big, but the monthly breakdown looks small. That’s how financing gets you. But those payments don’t disappear when life gets tough.

Before financing, do the math:

• Add the monthly cost to your budget
• Factor in interest if it applies
• Ask what happens if you miss a payment

If your job is uncertain, your bills are already tight, or you have no emergency savings, financing might stretch you too thin. A good rule of thumb: If you can’t comfortably afford it with your current income, it’s not worth the risk.

Before you commit, take a step back and review your long-term goals. Here are Financial Planning Moves to Make Before You Turn 40 to help you build a stronger financial base.

3. What’s the Total Cost After Interest?

Zero-interest offers can be great—but only if you follow the rules exactly. Miss a payment or go past the promo period, and the interest kicks in. Fast.

Some plans charge deferred interest, which means they add months of interest charges all at once if you don’t pay it off in time.

Always ask:

• Is there interest?
• When does it start?
• How much will I pay in total if I stick to the plan?

A $1,500 fridge with 20% interest over two years doesn’t cost $1,500 anymore. It costs over $1,800—and that’s before any late fees.

4. Are There Better Ways to Pay?

Financing isn’t your only option. Before agreeing, consider:

• Can I pay with savings?
• Can I use a credit card with a lower interest rate?
• Does my credit card offer 0% APR for a few months?

Some stores push financing because it earns them money. But that doesn’t mean it’s your best deal. If you can delay the purchase and save up, you’ll avoid interest and stress.

Also, check if your bank offers a personal loan with better terms. Financing through a store may be convenient, but it’s not always the smartest financial move.

5. What Happens If I Need to Return or Cancel?

Plans change. What if the product doesn’t work out? What if you lose your job? Before you finance, find out:

• Can I return the item after opening or using it?
• Will I still owe money if I cancel?
• Does the financing company charge fees for early payoff or cancellation?

Some financing companies are strict. You might still owe the full amount even if you return the item or never use it. Read the fine print before committing.

Bonus Tip: Check Your Credit Score

Financing plans often require a credit check. If your score is low, you might not qualify—or you’ll be offered a high interest rate. And applying can sometimes lower your score, especially if you apply multiple times in a short period.

If your credit isn’t in great shape, take time to improve it before financing anything big. Better credit means better terms and less money wasted on interest.

Financing isn’t always a trap. It can help you spread out the cost of a major need or take advantage of a deal. But it only works if you go in with a clear head and a smart plan.

Ask these five questions first. If you can answer them with confidence, financing might work for you. If not, wait. Save. And give yourself the freedom of buying something when you’re really ready for it.

You’ve seen it at the checkout counter. You’re about to buy a new fridge, phone, or laptop, and the salesperson asks if you’d like to add an extended warranty. It sounds like a good idea—extra protection just in case something goes wrong.

But before you say yes, it’s worth asking what extended warranties cover and what they don’t. Because not all plans are created equal, and that small add-on could be a waste if you’re not careful.

Let’s break it down.

What an Extended Warranty Is

An extended warranty is a service plan that covers repairs or replacements after the standard manufacturer’s warranty expires. Most products come with a basic warranty that lasts a year. The extended version usually adds one to three more years of protection.

You can buy extended warranties from:

• The store where you bought the item
• The manufacturer
• Third-party companies

They often sound like insurance, but they work differently. Instead of protecting against accidents or theft, extended warranties mainly cover product defects or breakdowns.

What They Usually Cover

Extended warranties often include:

• Mechanical or electrical failures after the standard warranty ends
• Defective parts or faulty workmanship
• Power supply or motherboard failures on electronics
• Certain labor and repair costs

For example, if your dishwasher suddenly stops running after 18 months and the original warranty only lasted 12 months, the extended warranty might pay for repairs or replace it altogether.

Some higher-tier warranties offer perks like:

• In-home service visits
• No deductibles
• Fast turnaround on claims

Always read the details. Not all warranties cover the same things, and the coverage level can vary by brand and plan.

What They Don’t Cover

This is where many people feel misled. Extended warranties often don’t cover the most common problems, including:

• Accidental damage (unless you pay extra for a protection plan)
• Water or liquid damage
• Drops, cracks, or physical damage
• Normal wear and tear
• Cosmetic damage like scratches or dents
• Lost or stolen items
• Software issues or viruses
• Batteries or accessories (in many cases)

So if you drop your phone in the sink or crack your TV screen while moving it, a basic extended warranty likely won’t help. You’d need an accident protection plan for that, and even those come with limitations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid : Assuming All Warranties Are the Same

Not all warranties offer the same coverage. One plan might only cover manufacturer defects, while another includes accidental damage. Make sure you understand what you’re buying.

Thinking Warranties Start Right Away

Most extended warranties start after the original warranty ends. If you get a two-year extended warranty on top of a one-year manufacturer warranty, you’re covered for three total years—not three extra years.

Not Reading the Fine Print

Always ask for the full terms. Some plans require you to register the product. Others make you go to specific repair shops or cover only certain parts.

Ignoring Deductibles or Service Fees

Some plans charge a fee each time you file a claim. If repairs cost less than the fee, the warranty doesn’t help.

When an Extended Warranty Might Be Worth It

Extended warranties can be helpful in some cases:

• Large appliances: Fridges, dishwashers, and ovens can be costly to repair. A warranty may save money if something major fails.
• Laptops or tablets: If you depend on them for work or school, downtime matters. A fast repair plan can be worth it.
• Expensive TVs or electronics: Repairs on high-end items can cost more than the warranty itself.
• Long-term ownership: If you plan to keep the item beyond the basic warranty, extra protection might be smart.

Some credit cards also offer extended protection if you use them for the purchase. This might give you a free extra year of coverage, without buying anything additional.

You may want to check these 10 Luxury Credit Cards Worth the Annual Fee if you’re looking for credit card options.

When to Skip It

You can often skip the warranty if:

• The item is low-cost or easy to replace
• You don’t plan to keep it long
• You already get solid coverage through your credit card or homeowner’s insurance
• The item has a good repair record or comes from a trusted brand
• The cost of the warranty is close to the cost of a new product

A $40 warranty on a $100 microwave doesn’t make sense. But a $150 plan for a $3,000 refrigerator might.

Tips Before You Buy

• Ask questions: What’s covered? When does it start? Are there any deductibles?
• Compare providers: Store warranties, manufacturer plans, and third-party services vary in price and quality.
• Check reviews: Some warranty companies have poor reputations for denying claims.
• Know your rights: In many places, products are protected by consumer laws that require sellers to repair or replace defective goods—even without a warranty.

Extended warranties aren’t always a waste—but they’re not always a win either. It depends on the product, the price, and how the plan is written.

Before saying yes at the register, take a minute to do the math. Know what you’re really paying for—and what you’re not. That way, you’re making a smart choice based on facts, not fear.

Think that new mattress will only cost a few hundred bucks? Think again. Between delivery fees, setup charges, accessories, and fine-print policies, the hidden costs of buying a mattress can add up fast, turning that “great deal” into a budget buster.

What appears to be a simple purchase often comes with surprises. Here’s what most shoppers don’t see until it’s too late, and how to avoid overpaying for your next bed.

Delivery and Setup Fees

Many retailers advertise free delivery—but there’s often a catch. Free shipping might only apply to basic drop-off at your front door. If you want help carrying the mattress inside, upstairs, or into your bedroom, you’ll likely pay extra.

Want them to set it up on your bed frame? That may cost more. If you need your old mattress hauled away, that could add another $50 to $150 depending on the store.

Always ask: What’s included in delivery? You don’t want surprises on delivery day.

Box Springs and Bed Frames

When you see a mattress price, it usually doesn’t include a box spring, foundation, or bed frame. Some newer mattresses don’t need a box spring, but many still do—especially if you want to keep your warranty valid.

A box spring can cost anywhere from $100 to $300. A basic metal frame might be cheap, but a solid or adjustable frame can run $400 or more. Buying a mattress means buying a whole setup. Plan your budget accordingly.

Here’s a quick guide to bed frames to help with your buying decision.

Mattress Protectors and Bedding

Most mattress companies strongly suggest you use a waterproof protector. Why? Because stains—even small ones—can void your warranty. That’s right: if your mattress gets stained, they may refuse to replace it, even if there’s a defect.

A good mattress protector can cost $50 to $150. Add in sheets, pillows, or a new comforter, and you could tack on another $100 to $300 easily.

If your new mattress is a different size or thickness, your old bedding might not fit. That means starting from scratch with new linens.

Trial Periods and Return Fees

Many companies offer generous trial periods—often 90 to 365 days. But read the fine print. Some charge return shipping. Others charge a restocking fee. And some require you to keep the mattress for a certain number of nights before they’ll take it back.

Returns can also be complicated if you bought from a third-party seller or physical store. You might have to repack it or arrange a time for pickup.

A return that looks “free” can still cost you time, effort, and money.

Extended Warranties

Most mattresses come with a warranty—but they don’t always cover what you think. Normal sagging, wear and tear, or minor defects may not qualify.

That’s why many retailers push extended protection plans. These might cover spills, deeper sagging, or broken zippers. But they usually cost $100 or more and may not be worth it unless you expect heavy use (like in a kid’s room or rental).

Think carefully before adding an extended plan. Often, it’s just another way to increase the total price.

Financing Fees

Many stores offer “0% APR financing” to spread out your payments. That can be helpful if you pay on time and in full before the promo period ends.

But miss a payment or take too long, and you could owe interest on the entire original purchase. Some financing deals have high rates hidden in the fine print.

Do the math before agreeing to financing. Make sure you can pay it off before interest kicks in. You can check out our guide on How to Create a ‘Big Purchase’ Budget to avoid overspending.

Store Markups and Sales Gimmicks

Mattress pricing is confusing on purpose. One store’s “$1,200 mattress” may be nearly identical to another store’s “$699 special.” Different names, same build. And prices can change daily.

Holiday weekend sales are common, but many stores inflate original prices just to offer “half off.” That deal may not be as good as it looks.

Online brands can sometimes offer better prices by skipping the middleman. But even then, check shipping, return policies, and warranty details.

A mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll make for your home. You’ll spend a third of your life using it. But the real cost isn’t just what’s on the price tag.

Add in delivery, setup, accessories, protection, and potential fees—and that affordable mattress can double in cost before you’re done.

The key is to plan ahead. Ask the right questions. Read the fine print. And don’t let the hidden costs catch you sleeping.