Why Now is a Good Time to Shop.

Spring is here! Yet, it’s very different from any spring we have experienced. I have never in my life had to distance myself from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and the population. We are in very different times and it can get very uncomfortable.

We will get to the other side of this and be able to enjoy gathering once again with a newfound appreciation for what it means to be a community.

Woman sitting and smiling while shopping online

In the meantime, an area that is taking a major hit is small businesses. Partially, non-essential businesses. This is causing businesses to offer deep discounts to push consumers to purchase. If you can support your local small businesses, please do so. Today I am providing you with some of my favorite brands and what they are offering (please note, discount offers may change after the publishing of this post).

Small Business Deals local to Cincinnati, Ohio (links provided; I encourage you to search the local small businesses in your area as well):

1. Coral Marie- Coral Marie is a sustainable lifestyle brand imbued with practical minimalist beauty. Coral is offering free shipping and has just launched her new spring line. She also has a sales section online. I had the pleasure of styling Coral’s line in a local fashion show. Her line is stunning, and she is an incredibly sweet and passionate person. You will love her styles.

2. Slate + Vine- Kara is offering free shipping on orders over $25. She also has a sales section and a last chance section with even deeper discounts. One thing I love about Slate + Vine are their beautiful accessories. I own some from this line. I had the pleasure of meeting Kara at a local event and was so glad I found this sweet little business.

3.  Anástasi Fashion-is ethically and sustainably made. Their fabrics are organic and eco-friendly. The designs are modern minimalist with a feminine high fashion appeal. Renae is offering 15% off your first purchase when you sign up for their email subscription. I have had the pleasure of styling Renae’s styles in several local fashion shows. I also own some of her dresses. Additionally, I had the pleasure of wearing several of her pieces for a local magazine, one being the magazine cover. She is an amazing designer and a sweet personality.

4. Idlewild- is offering free shipping on all domestic orders plus 15% off all orders over $50. They also have afterpay where you can pay overtime. They offer sustainable and ethical products. They have a variety of brands to choose from.

5. Sloane- is offering 15% off all full price items. Their style is mix edgy styles with touches of modern femininity within unique pieces.

Large businesses are also taking a huge hit and stunning the economy. Therefore, I have also included some of my favorite large clothing companies.

Large Business Deals:

1. J. Crew- is offering 40% off your purchase. They are running varying deals from 40-60% off so keep an eye out. Also check out even deeper discounts at J.Crew Factory.

2. Anthropologie- it is rare that they offer continued discounts but with the current economic situation, they have been running daily deals. Currently, they are offering $5 express shipping on orders over $50, up to 40% off jeans, shirts, and shoes, as well as extra discounts on sale items. This is one of my favorite larger clothing businesses, but sales are often limited and styles on the more expensive side. If you love this store, now is the time to get the best deals.

3. Ann Taylor- is offering 40% off full price tops and sweaters as well as free shipping on orders $25 and over. They change their sales frequently so keep an eye out. If you are looking for new professional styles, this is a good place to go. Ann Taylor Factory is also offering deep discounts, such as 60% off your purchase plus an extra 20% clearance.

4. Zara-they have a special prices section. And, while they are not offering a specific deal currently (outside of the special prices section), they already offer amazing prices on their products. Keep watch for any new sales.

5. Athleta- I cannot leave out this business as they have some of the best workout and comfort clothing around with high quality fabrics. It is very rare that they have sales but lately, they have been offering 25% or as of now, 30% off. That is unheard of for this brand! It’s one of my favorite places to go for my workout clothing needs and joggers so check them out why they have a discount.

I know you might not thinking too much about the purchase of new clothes right now but keep in mind, when we are able to get back out there and go to parties, weddings, events, dining out for date night again, you will have some great new styles that you purchased much cheaper than you would have before. Again, times are tough, and this is only if it is in your clothing budget currently. If it is, then supporting small local businesses and even some of your favorite larger businesses is important.

I would love for you to share with me your deals on social media here: Storyteller Stylist.

Stay well and talk soon,

XO Carrie

P.S. I am now offering gift cards through September 2020 if you know someone who you believe would enjoy a styling gift. You can purchase here: Gift Cards.

Carrie Hagee