Headed over to Saks Short Hills yesterday. Figured I’d share how it actually goes down when you try to shop ‘smart’ there. Sounds easy? Ha.
The Plan Before Walking In
First, told myself: “Stick to sale items only. Check the app for deals beforehand. Maybe scope the shoe section.” Sounded solid. Packed a water bottle and comfy shoes – knew it’d be a marathon.
Inside the Store: Reality Hits
Got in, grabbed a shopping cart. Big mistake right there. That cart? It’s a magnet for pricey stuff you never planned to buy. Wandered past the perfume section – sales lady sprays something “new” on a strip. Smells amazing, wallet feels lighter already.
Made a beeline for the shoe department. “Sale” signs everywhere, but digging through the racks felt like a treasure hunt with mostly trash. Found these shiny loafers hidden behind ugly boots. Price tag said $395. On sale. Almost choked.
The Rack Game
Moved to the designer section. Saw a fancy rack shouting “Additional 40% Off Red Tagged Items!” Got excited. Pulled out a red-tagged sweater. Original price $850. Red tag price $600. Then, minus 40%… okay, $360. Still wild. Felt the fabric. Itchy. Put it back.
My ‘pro tip’? Scrutinize the rack spots. The really good deals? Always jammed at the very back, sizes messed up. Found a decent cashmere scarf back there. Original $350. Tagged $175. Minus extra discount? Final price like $105. Okay, that felt like a tiny win. Snagged it before someone else did.
The Changing Room Trap
Tried stuff on. Mirrors in there? Magic. Suddenly that slightly-too-tight blazer looks “tailored.” Almost believed it. Stuck to my rule: if it doesn’t fit perfect or I’m hesitating even a little bit – walk away. Left three items hanging.
Checking Out (And Checking Myself)
Got to the register with just two things: the scarf and a basic tee shirt (even that wasn’t cheap). Used the Saks card for an extra 5% off or whatever. Big whoop. Asked the cashier about price adjustments if it goes cheaper in a week. She gave me that practiced smile. “Within 14 days, yes, with receipt.” Doubtful I’ll bother trekking back.
Saw people ordering champagne while shopping. Felt fancy. Didn’t cave. Stuck to my water bottle. Saved like $50 bucks right there.
Walking Out Alive
Left the mall. Wallet bruised, but not destroyed. Lesson learned? “Smart” shopping at Saks Short Hills means:
- Hunting the deepest racks like your life depends on it.
- Ignoring spray-happy perfume ninjas.
- Distrusting the fitting room mirrors.
- Saying NO to the damn cart unless you need major haul space.
- Remembering “sale” is relative when pants cost more than your phone bill.
Saved maybe a couple hundred? Probably spent hours doing it. Worth it? Maybe for the thrill of the hunt. Mostly felt like dodging bullets. Still love the place though. Sigh.
