For many years, I had a love-hate relationship with TJX stores. You know, the family of discount stores that includes HomeGoods, Marshalls and T.J.Maxx.

Finding clothing in my size was a rare occurrence. Finding size-six shoes, even rarer. And scoring items I needed in a complete set was a miracle. Think: curtain panels for a space with more than two windows or dinnerware for a party of six.

Recently, I realized I’ve been going about my shopping at TJX stores all wrong. You see, I might not find a deeply discounted dress in size 0P or everything I need to create multiple table settings. But there’s no denying that when it comes to certain items, they win every. single. time.

Chic Stationery

Polka Dot Tape and Scissor Set Tape $4.99, Scissors $3.99 – T.J.Maxx

If you are a stationery addict and enjoy having chic, cool accessories on your desk, you will love it at Marshalls and T.J.Maxx. I’ve scored everything from gold paper clips to sleek notepads there along with my favorite brands like Roobee by mara-mi and Poppin.  What’s more, the cost savings are huge, compared to shopping at traditional office stores or in the stationery aisles at big-box retailers.

Premium Beauty Products

The day I discovered my favorite beauty brands at Marshalls and T.J.Maxx, my life changed forever. I have found haircare favorites like BIOSILK and Joico in the beauty aisles at up to 50% off. I also love that these stores are always full of beauty surprises. For example, earlier this Spring, I spotted Ole Henriksen products sitting casually on the shelf at unspeakable prices. What a steal!

Cool Kitchen Gadgets

If you like cooking with utensils that make a stylish statement, the home aisles of TJX Stores will feel like heaven on earth. I have picked up some of my faves here, including my sunshine-yellow lemon squeezer, rainbow-colored basting brushes, ergonomic ice-cream scoop and tangerine colander. What keeps me going back? Irresistible pricing and the fact that no matter where I go, I never seem to find a collection of kitchen gadgets as chic as the ones at the TJX Stores.

Accent Furniture and Decor

Lucite cream bench $199.99 – Marshalls

I didn’t realize what a blessing these stores were until I had to furnish an apartment on a shoestring.  I found the statement pieces I wanted at budget prices, from the coolest rugs to storage baskets to accent furniture. And you know what felt even better? Browsing top-tier home stores online and realizing I got everything they had at HomeGoods for less!

Gifts that Wow!

Quoted coffee mugs $3.99 each – Marshalls

I love giving gifts that wow. So Marshalls and T.J.Maxx have been a godsend for presents that don’t break my budget. And it’s not just the gifts I love but also the packaging goodies I’ve found in store, right by the checkout counters. Glam gift bags, cheeky greeting cards and gift wrap with popping prints are just some of the treasures I’ve found.

What’s been your experience shopping at TJX Stores? Drop me a line in the comments. I’d love to hear and swap shopping notes.