Wait, you still pay retail?

Nonono, you're doing it all wrong. You mean to tell me you're shopping online and not using coupons? Sure you may get the occasional e-mail from jcrew or someone telling you they have a sale...good for you for being on their e-mail list already! That's step one...

If you know you shop somewhere on a regular basis, go to their website and start receiving their daily e-mails. Why not? Bottom line is that you're spending half a second opening an e-mail and looking at the bottom for a coupon while getting a quick update on what's new in the store! You never know when there's going to be a "30% off all merchandise" lovemuffin down there. Seriously.

Things to notice: if you can use it in store and/or online. Benefit for in store is that you can try things on...benefit online is that you have a wider array to chose from, especially in the sale section. And boy, do I love the sale section. Also, if you can combine your coupons--a magical happening that makes things virtually free...more on this later.

Some of my favorite lists:
Williams and Sonoma-they have monthly free cooking demonstrations, how fun is that? I may not be able to afford their obscene Peruvian olive oil or something, but I sure as heck can afford a free demonstration and some noshing.

Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor Loft, Brooks Brothers-often have private sales and coupons for those on their e-mail lists. Ann Taylor Loft also has an educator program-hellloo Loft Loves Teachers 15% off everything!

Express and The Limited-if you're getting an e-mail from them, you very likely have a $20 off $60 purchase coupon in your future...and on a regular basis from this point forward. Also, get on their hard copy mailing lists for more great deals.

Jcrew-did you know that they have an extra 15% off for educators and 10% for students with valid ID? Did you also know it works on their full price and sale merch in my experience? Oh, and on top of other coupons? Almost makes it worth it to get a degree in underwater hungarian basket weaving...just remember that you either need to go to the store for this one or call the catalog number. Yeah, I know, you actually need to talk to someone. Lame. Just remind yourself of how cute those flip flops are and you'll be fine.

Beauty Brands-free or cheap stuff from hair spray to nail polish. Heck, why not?