The clothing sales are here! And we finally can come out and see people! And go to “real” shops! I can hardly sustain my excitement, and I bet you feel the same.
With all the stuff available out there now, I try to follow a simple rule - let the shops store stuff, instead of storing it at home.
So to help you stay focused and navigate the shops like a pro,
I’ve outlined 7 tips below on how to shop during sales:
In Store:
1. Have a list.
Have a list of things you need, rather than just mindlessly browsing – go through your wardrobe, and have a very clear understanding of what is missing, write it down in your notes and consult the list every time you want to buy something – this will help avoid unnecessary purchases.
2. Understand consumer psychology.
These are particular tactics and strategies shops use to drive us to buy, such as:
Red signs to inspire a sense of urgency
Product placement within easy reach to encourage touch; further allowing an intimate relationship between the customer and the item.
Use of smells and their ability to entice customers and control ‘feel good’ emotions; a positive mood being an important factor when making the decision to purchase or not.
Use of music and its immediate effect on the customers pace when browsing; therefore playing slower music to encourage lingering in store.
3. Avoid “stress-shopping”.
It’s nice to get a bit of “shopping comfort” after a stressful week! We’ve all been there! However, sales shopping when stressed is like food shopping when hungry! So keep in mind you're only going to come out with items you crave rather than items you actually need!
4. Try things on.
Make the effort to try on when out shopping during clothes sales in store. It is really worth checking that the desired fit and look is something you are happy with when it is worn. Don’t take things home just because they are on sale. Ask yourself if it is the sort of fit and flattering style or cut you would usually choose for yourself. If not, try it on, rather than discover the fit isn't for you later on. This avoids another item going to the back of your wardrobe!
5. Pause.
Before going to the check out, pause for a minute, take 3 deep breaths and ask yourself the following questions:
Do I already have something similar?
Is this going to be comfortable?
Will it work on me?
Is this a good price?
Is it going to be easy to clean?
Is this going to work with the rest of my clothes
Online:
6. Unsubscribe from emails.
Unsubscribe from clothes brands newsletters – the newsletter is designed to remind you of the brand and lure you in with offers. If you don’t get distracted by all the sales in clothes it will help you concentrate on only getting the stuff you need and when you need it.
7. Limit your time on social media.
Go into settings on your smartphone – you can limit the time screen for every app – I only allow myself 20 minutes of Instagram a day and I can only use my phone till 9.30pm – that way I minimise my time on social media and am less likely to buy.
I hope these help! Remember not to feel guilty if you do buy too much. Instead, go through your wardrobe, take pics and log everything, and start fresh next time.
If you need my help on sales shopping, book yourself a personal styling chat with me following the link.
I’ve been helping people define their style for nearly 2 decades and worked with some amazing personalities along the way, like Lily James, Elizabeth Debicki, Riz Ahmet, Ben Whishaw, Jenson Button and Will Young. Nothing gives me more energy and drive than working with people.
My main priority is to tune into your feelings and gently elevate your existing style, to make you feel comfortable and presentable.
