At this time of year the shops are buzzing with sales. We’re heading into a new season and on top of that, stock take is around the corner. In an effort to count less items and hold on to clothing that no longer aligns with the season, business owners choose to significantly reduce their prices. As a result, consumers succumb to the temptations of a great bargain.
But, before your mouth drops in awe of the fact that you can now afford the dress you have been admiring from afar, I urge you to consider the following…
While there is certainly the possibility of stumbling across a gem (I have on many occasions), be mindful of why certain items have been demoted to the sale rack. If the season has come to an end it means that you are less likely to be able to wear your new purchase in the next 3- 6 months. Will you still like it when the appropriate season rolls around again? Will it still fit you?
Fashion forecasters identify upcoming styles. They know which styles are not on the cards for next summer. So, upon the advice of a company’s forecaster, what do store owners do? Transfer them to the clearance rack. I like to call these pieces “in today, out tomorrow!” If you can wear it now, that’s a great find, but what if you can’t?
Given I believe that you should love every piece hanging in your wardrobe, this poses a risk. So how do we mitigate this risk? I am not suggesting that we shouldn’t indulge in sale season festivities. In fact, my close family and friends know that I am always on the hunt for a great bargain. With a mortgage and 3 little angels, my bank account isn’t always flourishing and this is the case for many. This time of year provides us with an opportunity to be able to buy our clothes at a discounted price. We just need to be smart about it.
Here’s my advice to you:
Opt for classic pieces that you know are not going to out date, especially if it is not currently season appropriate. Classic style dresses, pencil skirts, plain t-shirts, tank tops, denim shorts, a bathing suit, light cotton pyjamas, white jeans, flat leather sandals, light weight cardigan, jeans and black open toe heals will all still be suitable in many months to come. If you’re feeling really enthusiastic, be a fashion forecaster and do some research before hitting the stores. Check out what the fashion leaders are showcasing on the runway, read some articles written by fashion journalists or have a chat to Karl Lagerfeld (Head Designer and Creative Director at ‘Chanel’, ‘Fendi’ and his own label, ‘Karl Lagerfeld’) – good luck with that one!
To help you along, I’ll let you in on a little secret. Certain prints that I can guarantee will never out date are: floral, animal prints, black and white, military green and navy and white stripes. While these prints are continuously produced year after year, styles often come and go.
So, before you head to the counter with your wardrobe covered for the next time summer starts creeping back in, ask yourself whether you are really getting a bargain or if you’re actually throwing your hard earned money away. The answer may surprise you.
Shop smart fellow fashionistas!
MM
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