Navigating the Summer Sales

By Sharmin Musca, Personal Stylist on January 29, 2016 in Other

At this time of year there are few people who can resist a bargain. While you might get excited at the thought of spending a mere fraction of what you usually do per item, consider how many barely worn pieces are usually in your clothing haul. Remember, ‘50% off’ is not free, so if you’re never going to wear it, is it really a bargain? January sales can be a fantastic way to update your wardrobe, but before you go shopping prepare yourself with these simple tips…

1. Plan your attack – Avoid the post purchase guilt associated with impulse splurges by first assessing what key items are missing from your wardrobe. By making a list and shopping from it you’ll also avoid falling into the trap of buying similar pieces, of which you already have too many.

2. Go for classic transitional pieces that fit – A lot of people go crazy; they see something on sale and buy it, but it doesn’t fit into their wardrobe and it doesn’t have a purpose, so they don’t know what to do with it. What makes a great bargain is a classic and versatile piece that works into your current wardrobe and fits your body shape, not the mannequin you saw it on. Look for pieces that can effortlessly transition into spring and autumn and can easily mix and match with what you already have.

3. You can never have too many accessories – Accessories are the easiest items to buy to update your wardrobe. The bonus is they’re often on sale – shoes, summer bags, printed scarves, bracelets and chain necklaces. For an investment piece, go for a fabulous, brightly coloured bag. Think Lego primary colours: canary yellow, rich red and cobalt blue for a standout summer statement.

4. Be comfortable and be quick – While I do love a statement heel, a summer sale is not the place for them. Sales shopping can be like a mini workout and you’re best to dress for it. Wear flats or trainers that you can slip on and off quickly. Also dress in neutral separates so you don’t have to take off your entire dress just to try on a top, wasting valuable shopping time.

5. If in doubt, walk away – Any thoughts of ‘when would I wear this’ or ‘what would I wear this with’ are a sure sign of trouble. Put the item down. Step away. Don’t look back.

On the streets this month I found:

Who: Lyndsay
Where: Bondi Beach
What: Surf lifesaver
Street Style: Lyndsay wears a By Johnny skirt with a Kmart top, Christian Louboutin heels and a leather bag from Bali.
Fave Item For Summer: AM Eyewear sunnies.

Who: Simone
Where: Tamarama
What: Designer of Once Found accessories
Street Style: Simone wears a leopard print rashie by The Acqua Brand, bikini bottom by NLP, Pared sunglasses, The Cove beach bag by Murph & Murph and Once Found jewellery.
Fave Item For Summer: Stolen Bird clutch by Jodi Lee.