Now we all know how tempting a sale can be, however Boxing Day can be one of the most busiest days of the year for bagging a bargain, and its usually the early shoppers that venture out before the sun comes up that bag the best. Here's my simple guide to getting the most from the Boxing Day sales this year:
1. Don't go mad and buy loads of stuff just because it has a cheap sale tag.
2. Make a list over Christmas of possible things you actually need.
3. I have this view that if it's in the sale and there's loads of it think why it may be in the sale. It can't of been that popular when it was full price.
4. Most of the stuff will be Autumn/Winter '12 and occasional last seasons Spring/Summer. Trends change so think carefully about whether you could see yourself in it next year.
5. Buy staple pieces that can be reworked into your existing wardrobe. There's nothing worse than buying an item that goes with nothing you already own.
6. Make sure the product has no faults or the 'classic pull'.
7. Take the opportunity to stock up on gifts for different events next year.
8. If the fitting room queue is too long, hang on in there, there's nothing worse than getting home and it not fitting right. From experience, if there's lots of one product left on the rail the design may of been cut wrong.
9. Look online first for trends and looks that you like. Perhaps look at what's in for Spring/Summer '13 and try and scoop something up in the sale that'll fit in with that trend.
10. Make yourself aware of different store policies about returns.
11. Haggle with the retailer if there's a mark (if you think you can get it out) or a product fault. They just want to get rid so bag yourself a bargain.
12. Hold on to all your belongings. The sales can be pretty manic so be wary.
Lastly enjoy yourself.