How to save big on clothes

When someone says "shopping," that means fun to me, in the "spree" sense of the word—though, sadly, not with the free-wheeling who-cares-about-the-price-tag attitude! We're not talking about routine errands like buying groceries or shampoo or supplies for a home-improvement project. We're talking about shopping for clothes (shoes and jewelry too!).

So it's about time we did a story about how to shop smarter for clothes, huh? It's our October cover story, and it's a fun peek at some hot trends for fall, plus perennial faves like T-shirts and comfy workout wear. We'll tell you what each retailer does best, plus what's new in stores, from new fashion lines to innovations like free Wi-Fi (thanks, Macy's and Nordstrom!), and give you specific savings strategies for each retailer.

Our roundup includes Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Gap, Old Navy, Sears, JCPenney, Target, Kohl's, and Bluefly.com, as well as the two department stores mentioned earlier and a must-read collection of the best clothing sites you're not shopping yet.

A lot of this list was inspired by my own closet. I've been raving about the Gap's T-shirts for years. The v-necks are perfect—flattering and not too low-cut—and when you hit a sale, they're super cheap (I think $6 is my record). My boyfriend got me some great workout gear from Old Navy last Christmas. Yes, Old Navy—who knew?

And Target has great bras and panties at super-reasonable prices. We've looked at bras twice in the past, asking staffers and bra-fitting pros for their opinions, and both times Target's Gilligan & O'Malley bras have won raves. Best of all, they start at around $12!

Now that fall is here (yep, that chill is in the air!), I'm hitting stores for some luxe-looking jewel tones. Banana Republic has yummy sweaters in rich fall colors. And I think it's time I give the new JCPenney another look, especially the Nicole Miller line. What are you loving this fall? I'd love to hear what you're buying, plus any tricks you use to save money.

Check out our October issue, on newsstands now!

—Jody Rohlena, senior editor