Here at Frost we love a bargain. So we asked fashion advisers at John Lewis how to successfully shop in the sales. We hope this guide stops any post-purchase blues.
John Lewis Fashion Advisers will be tailoring their appointments throughout the end of December and January to accommodate customers who want to find gems amongst the sales rails. The expert Fashion Advice team will be on hand to share their secrets to sale shopping, helping customers find stand-out pieces which fit, flatter and function. Fashion lovers will be advised on colour palettes, staple pieces and how to get the most for their money.
Head of Fashion Advice Amanda Slader says: “The key to savvy sales shopping is planning rather than impulse buying. Sales provide customers with the opportunity to build up a staple wardrobe of basic and classic pieces, as these are always the best bargains. It is important to remember to make sensible choices, for example, choosing a timeless little black dress is a much better sale choice than a piece from last season’s trend. Size does matter when shopping the sales as customers shouldn’t have to compromise on a good fit for reduced price.”
Amanda’s ten hot tips for shopping the sales:
1. Take inventory. Before you leave the house and hit the sales, inspect your wardrobe and make sure you know what you have and what you are missing.
2. Be strategic. Make a list of what you are hoping to find in the sales and try not to get sidetracked.
3. Wear flat shoes and comfortable clothes. You are likely to be on your feet and in and out of fitting rooms all day so it’s important to be dressed accordingly.
4. Keep it classic. Aim to build a staple wardrobe. It’s important to remember that a little black dress is a future classic and a much better investment than last season’s statement trend. The sales are a great time to pick up other timeless classics such as a trench coat by Aquascutum, figure flattering day dresses by LK Bennett and a camel coat by Hobbs. Also be on the lookout for great basics such as a fitted pencil skirt and tailored jacket from Reiss, great fitting jeans or the perfect pumps.
5. Complement your existing wardrobe. Take into account the cut, colour, shape and style that suit you. Make thoughtful purchases that reflect your signature style; the sale is not an excuse to drastically change your look.
6. Try it on. If it is not a good fit then it is not a good buy. It is always worth asking if there are more sizes in the stockroom if yours isn’t available on the shop floor.
7. Be thorough. Try everything on before buying and have a look to make sure you are aware of any faults before you make your purchase. Unless you are willing to repair it yourself it is not a good investment!
8. Check the returns policy. If you don’t have time to try anything on it’s important to know if you can return or exchange the item.
9. Avoid the lunch hour. Lunchtime is shopping rush hour! To avoid stressful shopping it’s best to hit the sales before or after work and at the weekend.
10. Accessorise. The easiest way to update your wardrobe is by accessorising. Statement jewellery by Adele Marie and John Lewis Collection will make an outfit look on trend and bright bags by Ted Baker and Aspinal are good ways to breathe new life and colour into your wardrobe.
