eBay homepageA fashion lover like myself can never have too many clothes, shoes, accessories, or anything fashion-related. But is it really my fault that I was born with good taste? (Yes, that’s how I justify myself!)

I love fashion and I absolutely love filling up my closet with tons of new great things. However, it seems as though my closet and bank account are far too closely related. When one increases (usually the closet), the other decreases (usually the bank account).

So what is a fashionista on a limited budget to do?

She hits eBay. I am an online shopping fanatic and eBay has always been my favourite online spot. I know some of you may be wary when it comes to eBay but listen to my success stories before you shake your head.

I purchased a Rachel Pally wrap dress on eBay a couple of weeks ago. Soft modal cotton (one of my faves). The navy wrap dress is gorgeous but a little too costly for me at full price. So why pay retail? I found it on eBay for 60% less than the retail value! That dress cost me next to nothing and it was a huge hit. I never got so many compliments from my fellow LOULOUettes (thank you ladies).

At the risk of sounding like a cheap infomercial, that’s not all. I have been eBaying for the last 7 years and I have saved thousands of dollars on clothing, shoes, accessories, cell phone chargers, cell phones, everything! But, beware. If you want to become an eBay master like myself and get all your favourite fashions for way less than retail, follow the rules.

An eBay expert must:

- Cruise the site regularly and type in their favourite name brands and size and see what pops up. Avoid looking for specific items because you’re unlikely to find them.
- Check for the NWT acronym, it means the item is New With Tags.
- Always check the seller’s feedback for other customer reviews BEFORE bidding.
- Verify the seller ships to Canada before placing a bid.
- Read all information, including measurements, and know their size to avoid purchasing items that don’t fit (maybe go to the store and try on a specific brand name to be sure of the size).