How to find a designer bargain

Most of us don't have enough spare cash to regularly splash out on the latest designer fashion. You might have all the justification ready - it's worth spending on an "investment" purchase, on a per-wear basis it's actually very cheap - but when it comes to handing over the money in the shop, you freeze, panic and say things to yourself such as: "That's more than a fortnight's rent."

But if you have an eye for fashion and a nose for a bargain, you can acquire a designer wardrobe relatively cheaply.

Search the internet, scour vintage shops and keep an eye out for any and all sales.

The key thing to keep in mind, though, is that just because something is heavily discounted, it doesn't make it a good deal. If you wouldn't have bought it at full price, you probably won't get enough wear out of it to justify buying it at half price.

My first stop when on the designer bargain hunt is always www.doubleexposure.co.nz. The stock changes regularly and the site's easy to navigate. It's designer resale, so most of the stock has been worn, but I find the guide to condition really reliable and a number of pieces are brand new, with tags still attached.

The best bit is the "sale" category where you can get further discounts. I'm still wearing my recently purchased $30 Lily & Ming racerback dress, despite the wintry weather. There's everything from Jimmy Choo shoes to Louis Vuitton handbags, all heavily discounted.

Another site that should be on every bargain-hunter's list of bookmarks is www.TradeMe.co.nz. There are always hundreds of designer pieces listed and items from many cool Kiwi designers, too. The only problem I have found is guaranteeing authenticity, especially with foreign brands that are commonly imitated, such as Gucci and Juicy Couture. It's a case of buyer beware, so bear that in mind when you are deciding what your top bid will be.

My favourite Trade Me purchase is still a black studded Ricochet top that was $30 and gets compliments every time I wear it.

It's taken me a while to get my head around www.nzsale.co.nz but it is worth checking out. You have to sign up to be allowed to browse the bargains, but there are a lot of them on offer. New sales start every day and items sell for up to 90 per cent off. The site also offers men's and children's clothes and accessories as well as homeware.

It's definitely worth browsing every morning but be warned - you will get frequent emails from them.

Hifashion.co.nz is one I have only recently become aware of. Check out its "designer clearance" section, where you can get clothes at up to 75 per cent off, but self-control is essential as the site will keep flashing up other things that you "may like" which aren't discounted.

Depending on where you live, you can often find good designer bargains in local vintage stores and op shops. Stores like Recycle Boutique have a separate area where you can get high-end labels, but if you are scouring the shelves at your local hospice shop or SaveMart, you might have to set aside a few hours to hunt out the best deals.