After living for three months in Boston, I noticed something - buying Ajust about anything at one of the little named shops was pretty much guaranteed to make your wallet feel a lot lighter. As much as I like to look nice, I really hate spending more than $20 on anything, excepting some real quality hiking gear.

So, for those of you on a limited budget like I am, who still want to get decent clothing, I recommend overstock shops. While it may seem to be a blow to the ego for those who love to buy brand name clothing, overstock places like burlington coat factory, tjmax, etc. often have fair to good quality clothing for very low prices. If you know the cut of the clothing you need, you're virtually guaranteed a great low-cost wardrobe.

And of course, for those of you living in the tiny cities like me (where I went back to after Boston), overstock shops may be your only option! You can look quite expensive without spending your way into bankruptcy.

LOL I'm guessing you were doing some shopping on Newbury Street. I work within walking distance of downtown, and it is a shame because it used to be great. Filene's Basement was a bargain shopper's dream. Now it is gone(so sad) as well as Filene's. Even Jordan Marsh(which was taken over by Macy's) used to have incredible one day sales - real bargains. Now Macy's has one day sales all the time but they don't compare. But I do find good deals on their markdown racks sometimes. If you do come to downtown Boston though, check out the Marshall's and TJ's because they are so much better than the suburban stores - they are always getting new things everyday. The Marshall's has a hugh shoe section and the TJ's has a big "Runway" section with designer stuff.

If you have thrift/resale shops,I recommend checking them out, too. Take a general list along of what you are seeking, so you aren't seduced by the great deal on that wrong piece. If the shop hangs things by size, check in sizes outside your range, as sometimes things are misplaced (accidently or deliberately by someone who is coming back later to snag that piece) or mis-hung. Try things on and be as critical on flatter and fit as you would be in a retail store.

Happy hunting!