From Boden's Fall 2012 Campaign Video
My head is spinning. Retailers are bombarding me with crazy discounts every hour (I've seen sales at 80 and 90% off!) while at the same time I'm seeing the first Fall styles arrive, which always makes my heart race a LOT. I've been through this before so I know a strategy is in order and I've put together some tips for ways to shop smart during the transition from Summer to Fall. If you can keep your head this really is one of the best times of the year to shop.
1. Sale and Stash
As I mentioned, the sales are kind of overwhelming right now (!!!) but it's the perfect time to stock up on tees or classic sandals you know you'll still love next year. Pack them away and it will be like Christmas next May when you pull them out.
J Crew currently has 51 styles of t-shirts and 188 swimsuits on sale and is offering an extra 30% off sale items, making this tee under $10.
It's also a good time to nab that far-out piece that spoke to you but you couldn't justify the price of because it was so out-there or frivolous. If you loved it in the Spring and you're still loving it now, chances are you will be excited to see it next year. Plus, these are the sort of items that either sell out right away (usually because buyers didn't buy very deep on them, knowing they had a limited appeal) OR are still hanging around at huge discounts (because, what can I say--your taste is truly unique).
The crazy Mara Hoffman Blanket Shorts that inspired me to plan a whole Mexican party in my head, right down to the Ranchera ballad playlist, are now half off. I know they're nuts but I also know I will love them til the day I die. The heart wants what it wants.
2. eBay Today
This a a great time of year for buying Fall and Winter styles on eBay. Wait a month or two and you'll be in a fierce bidding war for that Mackage coat that you need. I just bought a pair of Frye Jane Strappy boots on eBay for half the current selling price at retailers.
Hello my pretties, I loved you at full price but I REALLY love you at half off!
3. Do Your Shopping on the Other Side of the World
Did you see my post last Spring called "Somewhere in a land far, far away, everything's on sale..."? This is the perfect time to shop the opposite hemisphere. While we are beginning to dream of sweaters and boots, our friends down under are ready to shed layers and get their Spring dresses and sandals on.
A wool mustard Karen Walker coat for 40% off? Yes please!
4. Fall For Fall Coupons
A lot of stores such as Boden and J. Crew will launch the new season with introductory coupons. These usually happen early in the season before they have introduced the bulk of their new products but it's a rare chance to get a deal because often you won't find discounts this good until the Holidays. It pays to check RetailMeNot or a similar coupon aggregater before making any purchases right now (or really, any time!).
Boden is killing it this season--must be the jubilee, the Olympics, and Kate Middleton-mania as they are really embracing their Britishness. More sophistication, less polka dots. Save 15% and get free shipping through Sept with code W32E.
5. The Early Bird Catches the Worm
It's hard not to put off purchases until you can see ALL the new Fall and Winter styles, but if you see something you really, really love, I suggest you go for it now. The most popular styles do sell out quickly and retailers often like to start the season off with the bang by offering their most unique and forward styles early on.
2 comments:
Great Tips!
Glad you enjoyed them--thanks for stopping by!
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