Shopping at Marshalls always feels like a little treasure hunt. I usually go in with a general idea of what I need — or sometimes just to browse — but I almost always walk out with a few unexpected finds and some really good deals.
On my latest trip, me and the girls went in to check out the holiday deals. I also wanted to find some workout clothes for running. I’ve been using the Nike Run Club app to get back into running for fitness (see my post) — and finding good-quality workout gear at a great price is a nice motivator. But of course, it’s Marshalls… so I also checked all my favorite aisles and picked up a few more goodies than I planned. We even saw a couple great dupes for two trending Coach bags … read on!
1. Seasonal Home Decor & Party Finds
This is one of my go-to sections every time I step into Marshalls. I love seeing how the aisles change with each holiday or season. You usually can find seasonal party plates, pillows, wreaths and decor. They also have a big selection of table runners and centerpieces. If you love entertaining, you’ll find it here.
2. Activewear & Workout Clothes
Marshalls’ activewear section sells everything from workout clothes to gear — like yoga mats and light weights — and hats, waist packs and slings for working out. They almost always have a good mix of name-brand pieces at affordable prices.
This trip, I scored a pair of New Balance shorts on clearance for just $8 — such a steal! I also found a mauve and black Nike waist pack, perfect for holding keys and my phone on runs. The activewear racks can be a bit of a dig, but that’s part of the fun — it’s like a mini treasure hunt.
3. Kitchen & Cookware (and Fun Mugs!)
Marshalls has a great kitchen aisle — mugs, cutting boards, cute kitchen towels — it’s always fun to check it out.
On this trip, I grabbed a large Star Wars mug on clearance. I definitely didn’t go in planning to buy a mug, but it was one of those great buys (on clearance) that will make a fun gift for one of the Star Wars fans in the family.
4. Shoes & Accessories
Even though I don’t always buy shoes, I always like to take a look. The shoe section carries everything from running shoes to loafers, dressy boots and sandals — often from name brands (like Franco Sarto) at a fraction of the price.
(And pro tip: the good sizes go fast, so if you see something you love, grab it!)
5. Beauty & Perfume
Marshalls has a surprisingly large beauty section with skincare, lotions, makeup essentials and sometimes even high-end makeup brands. It also sells brand-name perfumes at discounted prices like Burberry, Versace, Coach and Jimmy Choo.
I love picking up little beauty finds here, especially around the holidays when they have great gift sets.
6. Gourmet & International Market Foods
One of my favorite sections to browse is Marshalls’ gourmet food aisle — it’s full of hidden gems like imported chocolates, olive oils, fancy pastas, and snacks you won’t find at your regular grocery store.
I usually pick up something new to try — like Italian coffee or cute tins of European cookies. This trip, I found French Butter Cookies in sea salt caramel and a Disney specialty coffee by Joffrey’s Coffee.
7. The Clothes
Marshalls has a great selection of name brand clothes and sweaters to shop — and there are a lot of clothing displays so it’s easy to browse. On this trip, I found a lightweight Italian knit sweater in a wine color. It’s soft, stylish, and looks more expensive than the price tag.
8. Gifts & Stationery
I love browsing this section for little surprises — cute journals, candles, puzzles, and gift bags. It’s perfect if you want to build a small gift basket or pick up something thoughtful for a friend. One of my favorite inexpensive items I like to pick up are the pretty notepad sets that come with a decorative pen.
9. Bedding & Bath
If you’re looking for an easy way to refresh your home or just need something for the season, Marshalls has a great selection of towels, rugs, blankets and pillows that are always beautifully displayed and surprisingly affordable.
10. Purses & Accessories and Dupes!
The purse section at Marshalls is always worth a look. They carry a good selection of name-brand bags like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, DKNY, and Calvin Klein — usually at a fraction of regular retail prices. On this trip, we even spotted two great Coach dupes for the trending Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag and Coach Empire Carryall Bag.
We also saw some beautiful bags made in Italy and picked up a shoulder bag in chocolate brown for under $50! This is one of those sections where it pays to take your time and browse.
My Marshalls’ Haul — What I Took Home
Here’s are some of the treasures I bought in my Marshalls’ haul!
- Mauve & black Nike waist pack for running
- New Balance running shorts (clearance $8!)
- Shoulder bag made in Italy
- Lightweight Italian knit sweater
- Star Wars mug
- Holiday party plates and candy
- French cookies and specialty coffees
What I love about Marshalls are the great deals on the quality name brand items and the element of surprise. I go in with one thing in mind and usually leave with a few unexpected treasures. Over time, I’ve learned which sections almost always have great finds — and these 10 categories are my personal favorites.
If you’re heading to Marshalls soon, grab a cart and take your time exploring. You never know what kind of unique items you’ll find!
