best deals: Alderwood Mall

I spent some time today at Alderwood Mall soaking up the post-holiday super sales and practicing self-restraint. It's easy to get totally confused and disoriented when you're surrounded by clearance signs. Everything seems "worth it" when it's 90% off.

Here's the golden sale rule: Look at the ORIGINAL price, and ask yourself if you would be willing to pay the full amount. If the answer is NO, then leave it.

Ready to practice? Here are my top 5 sale destinations at Alderwood:

1. ROMY. I think the entire store is on sale. Ignore everything but the romantic blouses (starting at $12.99) and the dresses ($39.99).

2. The Limited. All my favorite suits from this Fall are now priced to move. I was seriously eyeing a gorgeous winter white suit (under $75 for the jacket AND slacks).

3. Papyrus. All the holiday cards and gift items are 50% off. Selection is still good.

4. Banana Republic. 40% off dresses, sweaters, and COATS! I love the emerald green wool coat-- very Peter Pan chic--and the satin trench will be brilliant on New Years Eve. 

5. Forever 21. No sale, per se. But I never miss an opportunity to dig at Forever 21. If you understand that 80% of everything in there is unwearable and cheap-looking, while another 10% is totally unnecessary (a faux fur cape isn't exactly a wardrobe staple. Leave it.), then you can focus your search. Make sure to try EVERYTHING on, because the sizing is not predictable and the return policy is iron-clad.