Shop Talk: 30 Dirty Little (Shopping!) Secrets

Where Philly's fashionistas go for the best deals around town

For: College-Girl Wardrobes
Head to: Nordstrom
Where: King of Prussia

You thought we were going to say H&M, or Urban’s sale rack, didn’t you? Well, those might be the obvious standbys for fashionistas on campus, but Nordstrom’s junior department has an even more extensive selection — from cocktail dresses to coats, swimwear to sweaters — plus a value-priced BP private-label line, and a website section at nordstrom.com with “under $30” deals. Plus, the return policy here has no time limit, so if your kid’s only chance to shop is during visits back home, she can buy something on spring break and return it (unworn, of course) if she changes her mind by the time summer rolls around. The Plaza at King of Prussia, 610-265-6111; nordstrom.com.

For: Children’s Gifts
Head to: Daffy’s
Where: Center City

These days, kids’ toys can cost more than your first car — a real shame, considering how quickly they’re outgrown. But on the second floor at Daffy’s Center City location, you’ll find an entire section of playthings that never go out of style — like trucks, dress-up kits, paint sets and puzzles — plus walkie-talkies and other electronic gadgets. None will break the bank, and most won’t even require you to break a $20. 1700 Chestnut Street, 215-963-9996; daffys.com.

For: Party Supplies
Head to: Chinatown
Where: Center City

Colorful guests you may not always have, but funky party-ware you can ensure: Just make a morning of walking along 10th Street between Race and Arch to find the best of Chinatown’s inexpensive pottery (check out Shanghai Bazaar, 1016 Race Street; 215-629-8398), decorative fabrics that do double duty as tablecloths, and rainbow-colored lanterns, like those meant to be strung at backyard BBQs, for just $10 at Chung May. 1017 Race Street; 215-625-8883.

For: Designer Linens
Head to: Kellijane
Where: Center City

You may already know about Kellijane’s twice-yearly 50-to-60-percent-off white sales. (They run in January and February to make room for the new spring lines, and in July and August before the fall collections arrive.) But what you probably don’t know is that getting yourself on Kellijane’s client list will get you invited to more exclusive trunk shows, charity events, designer debuts — and insider sales. To be added to the list, simply call or shoot them an e-mail and ask, or earn your “client” status and stop by. 1721 Spruce Street, 215-790-0233; kellijane.com.

For: Lingerie
Head to: Bloomingdale’s
Where: King of Prussia

When variety, quality and fit are what we’re after in a great lingerie sale, Bloomingdale’s is where we turn: As the seasons change, Bloomie’s slashes prices on designer lines like Calvin Klein, On-­Gossamer and Juicy Couture by 30 percent. If you don’t already have one, signing up for a Bloomie’s credit card will, many days, earn you an additional discount (usually another 15 percent). The Court at King of Prussia, 610-337-6300; bloomingdales.com.