Hit the Sales Like A Pro

From caring and sharing to general festive cheer, the holidays are a time of endless fun and fabulosity that serve perfectly in bringing out the best in people.

Well that is of course until the madness begins. And by madness I mean The Sales. A time when pretty stores that (just before Christmas) sparkled full of life’s most desirable things suddenly become battle fields of pandemonium and mayhem, filled with suddenly very highly strung and actually rather crazy people, unwavering in their solitary mission to find as much stuff as possible, all of which they don't actually need.

Now correct me if I'm wrong but isn't that what sort-of happens? Perhaps it’s a result of all the Christmas cheer delirium that we hit the stores yet again, this time only to buy jeans that don't fit, dresses we’ll never wear and end up with yet more shoes that will possibly never see the light of day - all because they’re such "good value". And with bedlam at every shelf, elbows and sidekicks at every turn, not to mention dagger looks or equally manipulating smiles when that witch with a big old capital B has your boots on her feet, taking a moment to prepare is key in keeping it real (not to mention your sanity) this sales season.

So let’s take it back to basics shall we?


Before even considering joining the masses of madness, it’s a good idea to go through your current wardrobe to take stock of what’s happening. See what’s missing and what you definitely do not need another of. Planning ahead and having some sort of conscience about what you need and really don't will help in stopping at least some of the silliness that will no doubt be all too tempting once you’re in the middle of it all.

While potentially a time of considerable and unnecessary danger to your bank account, the sales are actually an ideal time to buy things you wouldn’t normally be able to indulge in. Using this opportunity wisely and investing in pieces of forever is key however. Splurging on trends is a no-no for although they seem like a good idea in the moment, their moment will pass just as quickly as they strutted down the catwalk no doubt. So my biggest tip when sales splurging is to INVEST in key wardrobe staples that will last for seasons to come. Good jeans, cashmere sweaters, an LBD, a classic winter coat or boots that will survive the test of time are all things to look out for.

Asking yourself these simple but decidedly vital questions will help illuminate any and all possible regrets:

• Do I really need it? I mean really.. do I reallllly need it?
• Is this actually good value? Or am I falling victim to another fashion fantasy?
• How much wear will I get or will I actually wear it at all?

It’s a proven fact that when we carry cash we’re less likely to spend money. Think about it. With cards it's all too easy to splash the cash we don’t have but carrying the dollah bills acts as somewhat of a safeguard to how willing or quick we are to spend on trends. There’s nothing more sobering to stop you in your tracks than handing over a wad of cash in comparison to the swipe of a card wouldn’t you agree? A months rent is justifiable (for that bag you’ve been lusting over) but after that ladies, let’s keep those credit cards in the freezer!

If you're hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (H.A.L.T anyone?) it's a given you'll come home with items you don't need or later won't understand why on earth you even considered a good idea. Consumerism is a minefield of psychological games and being in any way "psycho" on such shopping trips is a no no. So have a nap, eat up and stop fighting with your boy/girlfriend before you hit the stores. Your bank account and wardrobe will appreciate it, trust me!

So shopaholics, on your marks, get set, SHOP!

Have you hit the sales? Do use your elbows are weapons are are you usually the poor soul who always misses the last pair of bargain shoes in your size? Have you any tips to add? Let's gab in the comments!