These are two stores that I have shopped for at least five years now.

My recent Schutz pumps came from Linda's. They give very accurate descriptions of the condition of the item, and the measurements are always spot-on. And usually the shipping is free in the U.S.

Linda's Stuff
http://stores.ebay.com/Lindas-Stuff?_rdc=1

e Drop-Off
http://stores.ebay.com/eDrop-Off?_rdc=1

e Drop-Off has a huge following now, so items tend to sell for more than they used to, but everything I've bought has been top-notch, excellent quality, even pre-owned items. I got a brand new Cole Haan leather coat for $70 a few years back, and that coat has travelled the world with me.

I have a lot of smaller sellers that I follow (people like me, who occasionally list stuff, but don't have stores), but that's pretty random. Usually I just search for an item that I want, keeping the search terms general - such as "black pumps", or, "leather jacket". Then I use eBay filters to whittle down the list to something manageable

When I buy stuff from other sellers, I always look at the number of sales, their satisfaction ratings, and how much description of the item is given, and the clarity of the photographs. I don't buy clothing unless there are measurements given - or unless I know the sizing of a clothing company really well, and know it will fit. Because I always really read through everything, I rarely get burned - but it does happen, occasionally. I never return anything. If something doesn't fit, or I don't like it like I thought I would, I re-sell, donate, or give it to family or friends.

Checking back in. I guess too I have to add that now I'm a lot like rachylou just due to the fact that I can't sale stalk. I'm living outside of the USA so I'm left to pay the price for the item at any given point in time. I used to be a sale stalker and tjmaxx shopper but anymore I don't have the time or patience. So I am beating myself up less about the recent loft full price purchase. Plus I cut the tags and wore it last night and felt fab. Worth $80 at this point in my life.

I also find it frustrating to keep up with the pricing of retailers. So I don't bother trying anymore. It does help me question if an item is REALLY a good purchase, because the price is not the factor to buy, I have to really want the item, not the item's price tag.

I never shop brand new at Ann Taylor anymore. WHY spend retail, when in 2 days they will send out a 40% off coupon, and in 1 month it will be down to 60? If you out the dresses at AT, you can get them for $30 and under (which is how I end up with so many dresses from there!). I know that if I haven't seen the markdown to half on the tag, to wait because it will go down to half the original cost (but never a 50% off sale), and after that, it's a waiting game.

I don't sale stalk them anymore because I know how they do. The only thing I don't wait for is their tropical wool pants. They aren't eligible for any sales.

Thanks La Belle!