Tips for being successful when s

It really is true. When you look good, you feel great.

Janet Major

Image Consultant

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Tips for being successful when sales shopping

There are few traditional sales times anymore so we need to be prepared all the time. The shops can often spring a sale with some really big tempting reductions. Learn how to get just what suits you and your wardrobe as well as your budget. It’s easy to make mistakes so use these ideas to make sure you are a wise sales shopper.

Spend some time thinking before you go shopping and if you jot down some ideas that will be even better.

1. Styles: Try on some items from your wardrobe and look at yourself in a mirror, you need to wear the complete outfit and that includes the right shoes and tights too! This will give you an idea of shapes and styles to look out for. Those who have had a style consultation will know which shapes flatter them and which shapes will disguise areas of the body. You’ll also know what to avoid- this is very important.

2. Fabrics: Check that you know which fabrics are good for different parts of your body. For example if you have curvy areas then fluid fabrics suit better than stiffer ones which will add extra inches. Beware some sales items are made from 'less' good fabrics, and although the style might be just what you want; unless the fabric is good, you are likely to regret the money spent. There's nothing more frustrating than a beautiful skirt that creases so badly that you can’t wear it and sit down at the same time.

3. Colour: This often is the first thing that catches your eye. Sales are often full of surplus colours from last season. Do you know which colours really suit you? Have you had a colour analysis done recently? If not, now is a good time to invest in a thorough analysis. It will make a difference to how you look and feel and you will re-coup the cost when shopping, particularly if you spot one of your good colours in the sales.

4. Wardrobe: This is where your pen and paper will be really useful! Note down what colours & styles will add to your wardrobe; think particularly about items that you wear near your face.

5. Things to look for: Make a list – divide it into items for now and items that would be useful to keep – eg. quality pieces that will not date.

6. Things that you do not want: For example you may have lots of pairs of trousers and be tempted to buy another pair because they look a bargain. If you spend money on these you might just see an item from your most wanted list in the next shop you visit.

7. Accessories – eg. shoes, jewellery, bags. These items can really add to your appearance and change the look of some of your current clothes. Again a list of things to look for will be helpful.

You should now be fully prepared for your sales shopping. Once you’ve made your lists carry them with you (in your colour analysis wallet if you have one). Who knows when you might stumble on a sale!

A wise sales shopper has two golden rules:

• shopping in the sales is to benefit you and your image and not to get you to act as the shop dustbin!

• the true cost of an item is the cost per wear, not the initial cost!

Happy sales shopping!