Complicated

I never do things the easy way! Actually, that's not true. I'm always looking for the most efficient way to get things done (must have been reading too much about the Gilbreths when I was younger*). But I'm also looking for ways to save money.

So when I'm ready to buy new clothes, here's what I do:

1. I go into Kohl's and try on items I like.
2. I write down the brand name, size, and a brief description in a little notebook I keep in my purse.
3. I come home and go to retailmenot and look for a 30% off coupon code.
4. If there is not a coupon code, I wait until one appears--the longest I've had to wait is a few weeks. If there is a coupon code, I note it and go to ebates.
5. I use an ebates free shipping link and go to the Kohl's website.
6. I get my notebook and pick out the items I want to purchase.
7. I use my Kohls card and my coupon code to purchase the items for 30% off already discounted online prices (making it 50% off what I'd get in the store) and get free shipping with ebates.
8. When the items arrive I try on the ones I didn't try on in the store and re-evaluate my choices.
9. I return the items I don't like to the local Kohl's.
10. In a week I get 2% back from ebates for using their link.

What can I say? It works!

By the way, if you're not using ebates, you should. It's free and you get cash back for using their links for online purchases. Check it out.

*Bonus points if you know the books to which I refer.