Occasion
Who can resist the lure of the sales? With everything you never needed at eye-wateringly low prices, it can be difficult not to splurge on unnecessary items. Come on hands up- how many of you have got items in your wardrobe with the "sale' tag still on?

Despite the sales starting just before Christmas, there are still some greatly reduced items to be had in January.

Here are some tips on how to avoid breaking the bank on those "bargains" and most important of all how to have fun while you're doing it!

What to expect
When you hit the shops- online or brick-and-mortar, there will be lots of items in the sales from this season's hottest colours. It's worth taking a minute to consider if you will want to wear "volcanic orange" , for example, or a neon sequinned jacket next year when everyone else has moved on to another colour that is more fashionable. If you are going to invest, make sure it is one of your best colours. If you don't know which colours those are, then instead of rash spending, invest in a Colour Analysis! It will be one of the best investments you can make for a life time!

Make a list
Before setting off, make a shopping list of everything you wish to purchase and set yourself a budget.

There is no point in buying something that is heavily reduced if you don't really need it. Don't be swayed by any amount of saving. If you will never use it or wear it, what's the point? Try to make sure you only purchase items that are on your shopping list as you know they will be put to good use- be strong!

Getting started
Try to shop in the moment when you are feeling positive and energised- we all know this varies. Any purchase made to cheer you up will undoubtedly be a mistake.

Going out shopping can be tiring so:

• Wear comfortable and easy to remove footwear
  
• If you are shopping for a dress, take some matching shoes with you. Don't try and imagine how it would look with your pop socks on.
  
• Be sure to apply some make-up so you look your best
  
• Wear a good bra and decent underwear. You want to look respectable if you are stripping off
  
• Keep a watchful eye on your handbag- thieves love crowded shops and distracted ladies
  
• Take a few coffee breaks and of course have a delicious lunch- don't forget the diet starts tomorrow
  

Know your rights
Before you make a purchase, be sure you know the store's refund and exchange policy during the sales period. This will differ for each company, so to avoid misunderstandings.

Enjoy!
Most importantly, have great fun at the sales. And remember those words of wisdom from Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City: " I like my money right where I can see it- hanging in my closet!"

Get Prepared
Why not ensure you make the right decisions when shopping the sales and start the New Year by treating yourself to a consultation with our consultants?

Have a Wardrobe Detox with our expert wardrobe weeders, and you will know exactly what you need to buy. We also have Shopping Consultations which are wonderful to do during sales. You will not only buy what you need, you will be buying it at a great price. Afterwards you will know exactly what suits you and make wise decisions when shopping in the sales!