Make your list and check it twice
The first rule before going into any battle (yes, calling the sales a battlefield is an apt metaphor as anyone who has been part of the mad frenzy that greets you will agree), is to be prepared. This means you need to make a list of the items you really should add to your wardrobe. For example, don’t put stunning heels on your wish list if your job entails you to be in flats. Always dress for your lifestyle. Apart from your basics, this is a good time to plan ahead and stock up on your winter wear. You’d get it much cheaper now and won’t be rushing around paying double when the cold sets in. Also, think ahead and check what festivals/events/functions you have coming up so you can get appropriate
Dress right and go at the right time
Once that’s in place, the other thing you need to prepare for is actually going shopping. And that means dressing correctly. Don’t lug around a heavy handbag or hard-to-put-on shoes. Stick to slip-ons or sandals. Wear things that are easy to get on and off. Very often, you don’t manage to get a dressing room to try on stuff. So wear items such as leggings and a neat tank top that allow you to try on some tops and jackets right in the store itself. And always, always wear well fitting undergarments for the try-on session. Head to the stores just as they open to beat the mad rush or go closer to closing time to take advantage of the further marked-down deals.
Shop smartly
When your shopping list is ready, try and stick to it as far as possible. Don’t give in to the temptation of buying clothes that are a size or two smaller (you know it’s just going to in your closet for months!), or for events you think you might go to (unless you’re sure, don’t shop for it). The items that stores keep on sales very often are about six to seven months old and have dozens of people frantically trying them on so ensure you check that all zips and buttons are in place and it’s not torn or spoilt. Most stores do not exchange sale items. Even if you’re very sure of your size, take at least two sizes of each garment as you never know how it will finally look on you till you try it on. And standing in line again will drive you mad.
Go in with a plan
Check and see if what you’re buying is actually a bargain. A smart trick that many stores employ is to either put the same items on sale that were there the previous year or even hike up the price before the sales, so the new discounted price is actually the normal price. Read between the lines – a ‘buy one, get one free’ offer might not work out to be the cheapest. So do the math. Always ask yourself if you would buy the item at full price. If not, then move on.
Go online
In this digital age, check for online sales as most of your regular stores will have the same discounts offered on their e-commerce sites as well plus additional discount promos and coupons you can avail off to get a great deal without leaving your house. This works best when you’re shopping from your regular haunts and know your size well. In addition, look out for the flash sales – they are on for a limited time (normally just a few hours) and have limited pieces up for grabs. Make sure you sign up for newsletters offered by your shopping sites/brands to be in the loop for all their sales activities. As far as the actual stores go, make friends with the staff. They will definitely tell you when to drop by for the best deals.
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Written by Faye Remedios on 14th Jul 2014