Your guide to stylish sale shopping

Sales shopping, it’s for the early birds, the planners, the full-time bargain hunters and the tech-savvy. Only, what if we told you that there’s an easier way to navigate the sales – with our useful guide to shopping smart (minus the queues and the early starts). And it starts with fashion.

Do invest in wardrobe classics. Don’t rule out off-season staples. Do check sizing – and don’t size down for ‘future you’. If in doubt, do size up (a good tailor can alter anything to fit). Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale. Don’t chase trends. Do set a budget.

When it comes to fashion, this is what to look for in the sales.

Sales are a great opportunity to invest in styles that put quality and natural materials first. Think: 100% silk, linen, leather or cashmere. Not only does cashmere help our skin to regulate temperature in both hot and cold climates, but it feels undeniably luxe – an instant perk-me-up on Mondays, meh days and every mood in between.

Coats can make – or break – an outfit, and there’s no denying that they can be an investment. The cure? Find your forever style in the sales. The most timeless coverups come cocooned in shape, trench in cut or quilted in texture – in black, beige or earthy neutrals.

Head to the men’s section to look for quality basics like T-shirts and shirts – an oversized white T-shirt never dates, and utilitarian overshirts (we love Kin) look great layered under winter coats.

If you buy one thing in the sales, make it a bag. Why? One, you’ll never lose money on a bag and can always resell it. And two, while our clothing size may change over time, our hand-to-bag-handle size is fixed for life. Throw in a purse and some sunglasses and you’re good to go.

Didn’t get posh PJs for your birthday or Christmas? Panic not, sales season is the perfect way to justify your self-gifting. Made for hibernating in, the best pyjamas perfectly balance comfort and style. 

Sure, sales shopping should be sensible (no one enjoys post-shoppers’ remorse). But, having said that, now is the time to treat yourself to the feelgood, it-must-be-fate buy that gives you a reason to smile.