<p>Many things can be safely washed even if the labels say “dry clean only”. Most of the time, the trick is in the drying - laying the items flat on a towel or hanging them (works great for skirts and pants), followed by some light touch-up ironing. I have successfully washed silk shirts, cashmere sweaters, wool-blend slacks and skirts, and even some jackets. You can experiment on cheap finds from Goodwil etc., and then move on to the items you find at the mall, just like I did. The only thing that gets dry cleaned in my house is DH’s suit.</p>
<p>Perhaps some of the more conservative styles at Kohl’s would work. And if you find items on sale and have a 30% off discount coupon … all the better. (If there is a Kohl’s in your area, there a likely to be frequent ads/coupons. If you sign up for a credit card, you’ll get even more coupons.)</p>
<p>Kohl’s and JCPenney will work, especially if you stick with conservative cuts and solid colors. The Merona line at Target may work, too, but beware of some of the skirt lenghths (am I the only one who really misses the Isaac Mizrahi stuff they used to sell?) And seriously - the BR outlets and Ann Taylor outlets can be cheaper than Penney’s. I didn’t believe it myself until I shopped there.</p>
<p>Outlet malls are great. Before you go, check the website & become a VIP. That will entitle you to coupons and typically a free coupon book you pick up at the info desk. All will save you significant $. </p>
<p>Another vote for Marshalls or TJMaxx. If you have patience you can find great deals. </p>
<p>The department stores also have great stuff on their sales racks that when combined with coupons (off website or newspaper) can make stuff dirt cheap. If you can keep a credit card under control, many department stores offer 15-20% discounts the day you sign up and send you coupons in the mail. </p>
<p>I shop quite a bit a Ann Taylor Loft. Sign up on their website for private coupons. (Gap also emails out coupons, but a lot less frequently).</p>
<p>In most areas, summer clothes are on “clearance” in about the second week of July. And “summer” doesn’t just mean shorts and sundresses…just whatever they got in a few months ago. While Ann Taylor Loft and TJ Maxx and Marshalls are great, don’t be afraid to check the clearance racks at stores that you think are too expensive. Sometimes you’ll find something that has been marked down multiple times. </p>
<p>Also, when you’re looking at the clearance racks, don’t just look in your size. There may be something awesome left over in a larger or smaller “size” that is left over precisely because it is not true to manufacturer’s size.</p>
<p>Pugmad’s skirt suggestion is very good. Stylish and reasonably priced.</p>
<p>Thanks for all the suggestions. I’m going to have to develop a strategic shopping plan for this weekend! </p>
<p>Does anyone have experience with the quality of Target clothing? They have some cute stuff on their website, especially the Merona and Mossimo label.</p>
<p>Most of our Merona/Mossimo clothing from Target holds up well. I wash much of it on gentle and line dry anything questionable.</p>
<p>I also use the home dry-cleaning sheets for a lot of our office clothing. They are pricey, but much cheaper than the real dry cleaners. I stock up with they are on sale. One store recently had BOGO, which made the price very reasonable.</p>
<p>Ann Taylor Loft is having a sale. Take an extra 40% off sale prices. Looks like it is both online and in their stores.</p>
<p>I have had reasonably good luck with the Chadwick’s catalogue. Their prices are reasonable to begin with, and they often have sales or discount codes.</p>
<p>I’ve never heard of Chadwick’s, thank you! Their dresses are exactly the kind I’m looking for.</p>
<p>does your area have a Dress Barn. They have really updated their look and the prices can’t be beat.</p>