Today I am debuting a new feature on Blissful Style – “Talking Shop(ping)”. A couple of times a month I’ll devote this space to talking about stores, sales, online boutiques, or the latest thing everyone’s buying!  My first feature is on a place I’ve  been finding bargains for years.

A couple of weeks ago, I got to do my FIRST (hopefully of many!) fashion intervention and makeover on my good friend, Amy in OHio, thanks to TJ Maxx and Marshall’s. If you didn’t see it then, click here to read it and see Amy and I on video getting our SHOP on!

Now I have shopped at TJ Maxx and Marshall’s for years.  When I was working outside the home, I’d get nearly all my fashionable “power suits” there.  I loved being able to buy name brand for a fraction of the price. But until my recent shopping excursion with Amy, I never really thought about what made TJ Maxx and Marshall’s different from other department stores.

So, when I was working with them on Amy’s fashion makeover, I decided I’d find out and share it with you!  Here are some great facts about TJ Maxx and Marshall’s (and their parent company, TJX.)

• TJX buys their inventory weekly. WEEKLY!  That’s huge, as according to TJX, most department stores buy seasonally 6-8 times a year.  This means you have a LOT more selection to choose from at a TJX store.
• TJ Maxx and Marshall’s prices are 20-60% less than suggested retail.  They can offer these big savings because they have a more no-nonsense store facility – no elaborate dislays or mannequins, etc.  They also buy direct from clothing designers and do not return unsold stock, which allows the designers to give them a lower price.
• Their inventory is 85% current season! So even though they offer lower prices, they stock the same on-trend fashions as other department stores. (They also sell housewares, hosiery, and other items not as heavily influenced by the trends.)
• Some differences between the two stores: TJ Maxx only offeres women’s shoes; Marshall’s offers shoes for the whole family.  TJ Maxx has more beauty and jewelry, and plus-size options; Marshall’s has more men’s offerings.

Now you know everything you need to have a great shopping experience at TJ Maxx and Marshall’s! So go out and find something you love at a great price!

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Interested in being featured on Talking Shop(ping)? Contact Jenny at jenny at blissfullydomestic dot com.