Living in Bermuda, we’ve all complained about the soaring prices and the lack of variety at one time or another. In the current recessed economy it feels as though prices are higher and selection is smaller driving more and more of us shopaholics away from Front Street. Although I can’t do anything about the lack of variety (trust me, if I could shop Victoria’s Secret without going away or paying customs a small fortune, I would) I spent the last week scoping out the best places to find a bargain, deal or discount in hopes of giving my wallet a break!

THE BARN

Most of us donate our gently used clothes to The Barn once or twice a year but how many of us have actually shop at The Barn? I’m guessing not many, which is a shame because the treasures to be found within the four walls of Bermuda’s biggest thrift shop will amaze you! Prada, Michael Kors, Thomas Pink, Ralph Lauren the designer labels are abundant at The Barn and the best part is the price tag! The ladies at The Barn get more donations than they can handle, which means they’re able to be super selective with what they put on the racks, giving you the best options for the best price!

The Barn is located at 53 Devon Spring Road, Devonshire and is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9:00a.m. – 2:00p.m. Tel: 236-3155.

BARGAIN BOX

Bermuda’s other thrift shop, Bargain Box has less variety than The Barn but better prices. It’s not all about clothes and shoes either; Bargain Box has household appliances, toys, cutlery, books and more!

The Bargain Box is located at 2 Midsea Lane, Pembroke and is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturdas from 10:00a.m. – 4:00p.m. Tel: 292-4169.

BERMUDA RED CROSS

Each Saturday morning, beginning at 9:00am the Bermuda Red Cross opens its doors and invites all to shop their second-hand store, the Upstairs Closet . Much like The Barn and Bargain Box, the Bermuda Red Cross use the money from the sales in their store to support relief efforts around the world. Currently, they’re collecting money for the famine in Africa, the earthquake in Haiti and the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Upstairs Closet is located at Bermuda Red Cross, Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road, Paget and is open Friday and Saturday from 10:00a.m. – 4:00p.m. Tel: 236-8253.

PRICE RIGHT

If you’ve never been to Price Right or haven’t been in a long time, you’ll be amazed at how much their selection has grown. Only a few years ago Price Right only offered deals and discounts on food items and home goods but now they’ve expanded their stock to include clothing and accessories! Although exciting don’t expect extravagant evening wear, Price Right only deal in basics but if you’re back to school shopping or just need to restock your sock drawer their low prices (I’m talking $1.00!) make Price Right unbeatable!

Price Right is located at 10 Mill Reach Lane., Pembroke and is open Monday – Saturday from 9:00a.m. – 7:00p.m., Sunday 1:00p.m. – 5:00p.m. Tel: 295-7111.

SALES

Although it’s certainly not rocket science, shopping during sale time can save you a lot of money! I try to do most of my shopping when sales are on because believe it or not, there’s still great finds and the lower prices don’t send me into an epileptic fit as soon as I walk through the door. One sale currently on which I have to mention here is at FCUK or French Connection if you want to be more specific (and less vulgar). Just last week I found a beautiful dress that was originally priced at $300, and I walked out with it in my hand for only $130 – now that is a deal!

Know of any other great places to find bargains, deals or discounts? Share them in the comment box below! Happy shopping!