Tips like these helped us pay off $127K in debt. You can read our story in Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After.
In the last two years, Stein Mart has become one of my very favorite places to purchases clothes. I’ve gotten pretty acquainted with their sale cycles and how to rock a deal while I’m there. The King of Free is even better at buying his clothes there. That’s an entirely post that perhaps he’ll write for the gents someday. In the mean time here are the best ways to save money at Stein Mart.
Coupons
Please promise me you never, ever shop at Stein Mart without a coupon. Even if you simply Google for them from your smart phone when you’re in the store, there is rarely not a coupon out there. Usually the coupons are for additional savings off of clearance merchandise. However, there are usually coupons good for sale items. Regular priced items rarely have one but if you wait a week, the item will probably be discounted at some rate. Be sure you’re clear on whether or not the coupon is good on one item (typical for 20% of Sale items) or your entire purchase of items (usually for clearance items). Stein Mart coupons can be found directly on their website.
Preferred Customer
Stein Mart has a Preferred Customer program that requires you to scan your card before check out to receive additional benefits like special discount days, coupons mailed to your home, birthday discounts, and more. This is key: even if you received the card in the store, you need to go online and sync it with your account (or create one to begin with) so that your address is current on file. This will result in coupons not available online being mailed directly to you.
E-mail Updates
While you’re linking your account, be sure you check to see if your e-mail alerts are set. I receive daily updates, but I use an e-mail designated for freebies, coupons, and deals. After receiving the e-mails for awhile, I’ve been able to spot the sale cycle. The clearance discount coupons will increase on a regular basis.
Match Coupons to Clearance
Where you can really maximize a deal at Stein Mart is by matching those coupons with the clearance items. I peruse the clearance racks every time I’m there. This is most effective if you choose to shop out of season. It’s no fun to buy sweaters in April; however, in the fall you’ll have the best deal imaginable.
Shop on the Weekend
The coupons are at their best discount on the weekend. So avoid shopping midweek if you can.
Don’t Think Red is Best
There are two types of clearance at Stein Mart – Blue Slash and Red Dot. While one would assume that red would be the lowest mark down, I haven’t always found this to be true. At times, the Blue Slash coupons can be a much higher percentage, too. It’s all a matter of timing but don’t just default to red being the lowest price available.
Separate Coupons for Home Goods, Jewelry, & Shoes
Stein Mart occasionally offers a higher discount on these items (or a separate one). Two weeks ago, all red dot jewelry was an additional 50% off, no coupon necessary. Again, the e-mail alerts will help you know when these bargains become available.
Do you shop at Stein Mart? What items do you purchase? How do you save? Leave me a comment and let me know!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out Inspiration to Pay Off Debt: 30 Days of Encouragement from the Queen of Free
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
