Don't buy Wal-Mart brands unless you're at Wal-Mart

Any shopping aficionado will tell you... know what you're looking for. If you buy an authentic 1908 German beer stein, you'd be pretty disappointed to find out that you're actually the proud owner of a 1988 Zinzinnati Oktoberfest souvenir.

Shopping is not fun when you're left wondering if you landed a good deal. Being able to find good bargains is what makes a good bargain shopper. Plus, you'll waste a lot less time.

That being said, knowing brands is important and knowing price brackets is key. The cost difference between a shirt on sale at Express or T.J. Maxx isn't that great. And unless you're a brand wh*re, it's good to know when you're only paying for a label.

And the outlet malls.

My friends, they're designed to induce shopping spree-itus. So unless you simply love Old Navy, why go to an Old Navy "outlet?" It's a regular store. Old Navy prices are basically outlet prices. Why waste time getting an everday deal when you can really score at the Banana Republic or Pottery Barn outlet stores?

Also, you never know why something is discounted. Look for "as is" signs (holes, stains, whatever) and spare yourself some serious buyer's remorse.

* Hot tip: Gabriel Brothers does carry a wide range of brands. While it's overwhelming at first glance, racks are nicely labeled. Scan rack top signs for hot spots to avoid premature burn out.

Gabriel Bros = FUN

The first time I went to Gabriel Brothers I was less than impressed - in fact grossed out might be fair to say. Then, when I moved nearby one, I gave it another shot. So glad that I did.

If you know your brands, you can really make out like a bandit there - so much so that it makes the hint of b.o. in the air bearable. Standard brand stand outs include:

• Ann Taylor (Loft too)
• J. Crew
• Kensie
• Betsey Johnson
• Limited
• Anthropologie
• New York and Co.
• Banana Republic
• Nine West
• Urban Outfitters
• Guess
• Calvin Klein
• Lane Bryant
• Delia's

Of course, for some of those brands, options are in short supply, but they're there and cheap. Usually they have Ann Taylor tops two for $10.

Gabriel Brothers also has merchandise from Linens n' Things' liquidation (I'm still healing from that). Chacos had their own display there about a month ago for $20 a pair. At one point, they even had Vera Wang place settings for $40. How nice is that??? Of course, I still couldn't afford even one but eh - it was good to know.
Recently -as in this week - I purchased a Banana Republic denim skirt, two vests from Urban Outfitters, a pair of pants from Anthropologie and a yoga mat - all for just around $50. Not too shabby.

A shipment from Urban Outfitters Inc. (parent company of Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters) must have recently arrived. There are loads of clothes from there right now.

Those in search of jeans should check out their selection of Guess jeans. They have a decent amount of sizes for $30 a pair. Those to the left for example are on sale right now at guess.com for $79.99 a pair and $30 at Gabriel Bros. I sadly couldn't find my size, but anyone who wears a size 30 or smaller are set.

I should specify that my Gabriel Brothers store is the one on Beechmont in Anderson Twp.

In the end, I definitely recommend giving Gabriel Brothers a chance. It's a little messy. A little smelly. Kind of a mess. But if you commit to real bargain hunting, you'll come out smelling like a rose - and looking like one too.