It’s that time of year again, already! The sale, sequin, and holiday season are in full swing. With luxury slowing down (although it never really feels that way), your inbox, like mine, is undoubtedly flooded with emails from every retailer, online and storefront, department and specialty, and everything else imaginable.
I used to struggle through black Friday and other seasonal markdowns, so I stopped purchasing anything on sale for a long time. I bought new pieces, and they would sit in my closet, only for me to resell them, years later. One of my main mottos has always been: Buy on sale things that you value at full price. Say there’s a dress that’s been haunting you, but the price is outside your comfort zone. If the price held you back and you still love it on sale, buy it. That doesn’t always work, but it did for me long ago.
My approach to discount/sale shopping has evolved along with shopping. If you have ever considered hiring a personal shopper or stylist, now is the perfect time to get assistance and avoid common mistakes. Below are my updated tips for navigating the holiday sale season, followed by top sale picks from online sites.
- List what you need, what you would like, and what gifts your loved ones may appreciate. Planning keeps you focused and helps you avoid overbuying.
- Choose your favorite high-demand brands and prioritize them. Once-aspirational items may now be within reach. My picks below reflect brands like Khaite, The Row, Ferragamo, and Chloe, which have value even if they don’t work out in your wardrobe.
- Some higher-end brands may invite you to a special sale with a limited time window. Be especially cautious not to overspend at these. Consider limiting the number of items you purchase and choosing only one category from which to buy. What do you need most? Shoes, clothing, or something else?
- Compare prices if you’re looking for something specific. Contact your favorite retailers to see if your items may be marked down further.
- Inquire what happens if the purchased item gets marked down further. The price may be adjusted, even for store credit. Often, larger department stores offer this, particularly to preferred clients. This is where having a personal shopper or stylist can pay for itself. They help negotiate and plan.
- To minimize mistakes, avoid final sales (unless this is an item you have been eyeing for a while) and SUI (or shopping under the influence) while shopping on sale. It’s fun to have wine over lunch with friends and make a shopping outing a full-day activity, but that’s when mistakes happen.
All the preparation in the world doesn’t mean that mistakes won’t happen. I have made literally every mistake possible when shopping during sale season. But when you find that piece that makes you feel fabulous at an irresistible price, it’s like a Christmas gift to you.
Until next time, have a fabulous Thanksgiving, and happy sale shopping!
Here is a FULL link to view a few of my favorite pieces to make you feel elevated and chic this holiday season, and below are JUST A FEW foolproof select items:
Khaite Tamal Pinstriped Oversized Shirt
Akris Punto Tweed Chunky Fringe Jacket
Stella McCartney Cropped High-Rise Flared Jeans
Chloe Ambre Lambskin Ankle Boots
Ferragamo Padded Leather Crossbody Bag
