When you need a new outfit and time is running out—landing a stylish outfit on a tight schedule is achievable—it just requires a few smart moves. Begin your search at neighborhood secondhand boutiques, on weekends when fresh arrivals hit the floor. Most retailers slash prices weekly to clear space for new arrivals, so choosing the perfect day can unlock massive discounts. Don’t overlook the back racks or clearance bins; sometimes the best finds are hidden in plain sight.

Subscribe to retail apps and brand newsletters. Many offer urgent, time-sensitive deals exclusively through app alerts. Often within minutes of the cutoff. Signing up for alerts from your favorite brands can give you a head start on deals that others miss. Even if you’re not planning to shop, keep your alerts active—you never know when the perfect pair of jeans or a blazer will show up at half price.

Use price comparison tools on your phone while you’re out shopping. Apps like Honey or CamelCamelCamel can quickly show you if the item you’re holding is actually on sale. When you’re browsing physical stores, take a photo of the price tag and check it later on your phone. You could find the same item cheaper elsewhere. Or find out it’s on sale at a different branch.

Another smart tactic is to shop at the end of a season. Winter coats in April. This is when stores are most eager to liquidate inventory. Retailers want to make room for next season’s stock, so you’ll leave with a full outfit at a fraction of the original price. Scan for seasonal sales at department stores. And even outlet malls, where discounts can reach 70 percent or more.

Don’t fixate on a single brand or hue. If you refuse to consider anything outside your usual picks, you could overlook a superior find. Test out variations in fit and color. You may discover a more comfortable, stylish option at a lower price point. Comfort and confidence matter more than labels, and a perfectly sized, black denim tears hoodie budget-friendly item might become your go-to.

With a little research, a willingness to adapt, and a proactive approach, you’ll leave every shopping trip with a chic look under budget.