How to Shop Mall-Based Stores

If you’re making a full-blown mall trip, it’s easy to caught up in multiple-store mayhem and the hustle and bustle of holiday sales. Find out which mall-based stores are worth a budget fashionista’s while and style with our tips and tricks to some shopping center favorites.

ANN TAYLOR
Ann Taylor can be on the pricier end of mall-based shopping, but a budget fashionista shops smart, no matter her location. Semi-annual sales are a great time to take advantage of discounts like 40% off already marked-down items. And, soon-to-be-grads can stock up on office wear with a 20% student discount.

ARDEN B
Wet Seal’s more sophisticated sister brand, Arden B, is perfect for young adults and the young at heart. With slightly better quality (and slightly higher price tags), the merchandise is perfect for party wear and divas who like even their go-to sweaters and jeans to be dolled up. The brand offers a 10% back loyalty program through B. Rewarded, along with exclusive events, and concierge and personal styling services.

CHICO’S
Chico’s has grown far from its infamous Travelers and jacket collections to include fashionable offerings in denim, holiday wear and more. Full of accessories and jewelry for every size, the store also caters to plus size women, spanning up to size 22. If you’re an avid Chico’s visitor, join the Passport Program, a loyalty program designed to reward customers after purchases reach a $500 benchmark.

EXPRESS
As the sixth largest specialty retailer in the US for both men’s and women’s apparel, it should go without saying that everyone loves Express. Moderate pricing and killer sales have locked this store into every budget fashionista’s radar, and with a substantial mix of basics and seasonal trends, the store will always have what we’re looking for. Stock up on denim, printed blouses and office essentials. Sign up for the mailing and/or email lists to get discounts year round, and off nearly every purchase.

LOFT
LOFT, Ann Taylor’s inexpensive little sister, is key for comfy, cozy essentials. Every piece has great mix and match capabilities and the ease of effortless chic to keep you looking good in even the most casual weekend wear. Between the LOFT web site’s Style Finder and nearby retail locations, you’ll be able to track down all the beach, maternity, and specialty merchandise your little heart desires.

NEW YORK & COMPANY
NY&C  is the perfect blend of budget shopping and quality product. Chock-full of stylized work essentials like trend sweaters, sleek pencil skirts and updated blazers, the brand balances helps budget fashionistas balance a chic, office-appropriate image. Notorious for their buy one get one 75% off deals, NY&C knows a thing or two about sales and bargains, and offers additional discounts through online promo codes and the NY&C Rewards Credit Card.

TALBOTS
Gone are the days where we headed to Talbots  solely to pick up a gift for our grandmother. The brand has shifted its aesthetic from old-fashioned to timeless, making it an essential retail stop for classic pieces like a sharp trench or pencil skirt. Just as with any other store, splurge on wardrobe mainstays like a great-fitting dress pant or blazer, and save on seasonal trend pieces like tees and printed tops.

THE LIMITED
The Limited shopper is the young professional, and the company has tailored the shopping experience to meet her needs with countless retail locations, a user-friendy online store, and conveinences like in-store hemming. The website provides fit and gift guides, and product ratings and reviews to make finding the perfect garment a breeze.

VICTORIA’S SECRET
The best way to shop VS  is to truly use the associates, that’s what they’re there for. The overwhelming amount of sizes and styles can be overwhelming to even the most experienced unmentionables shoppers, so whether you’re shy or just unsure on fits, ask for assistance. Get sized right away so your shopping doesn’t have to end in returns and exchanges. Sign up for mailing lists, use promo codes and shop the Semi Annual Sale because a VS purchase should never be full-price.