Savvy shoppers don’t just know what to buy, or where to buy it—they also know exactly when to buy it. Take advantage of seasonal sales to get fabulous items at amazing discounts. One way to get that insider info is to sign up for your favorite store’s Twitter, Facebook or e-newsletters. You’ll get regular updates and even special members-only discounts.
But aside from those special promos, malls and stores usually follow a ‘big sale calendar.’ Here is your inside scoop on when that happens.
July
This month signals the start of end-of-summer sales and pre-fall sales. That’s because big stores will get their fall items as early as June, and they’re clearing their inventory to make room for new stock. This is a good time to snag that expensive coat (really classic styles will be stylish any year) or splurge on that amazing summer dress.
October
The stores have their holiday stocks ready and waiting—but they’ve got to clear the shelves first. Of course, you’re more than willing to help them! In fact, you’ll save a whole lot of money (and stress) by doing your holiday shopping right now. Buy gifts for friends and relatives, and pick a present (or two…or three…or four…) for yourself. And if you clear your Christmas list by October, you know what that means? You can spend your holiday bonus on yourself!
December
Many stores start offering their sales on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. But many stores will offer even bigger discounts starting the first week of December. A lot of it is due to savvy marketing: they know people are in the mood to buy, and that they’re competing against dozens of other stores for your money. So, they do a hook and bait approach: offering some items at a crazy bargain, hoping that you’ll also buy their new stock. If you’re panic-buying and eager to escape the holiday crowds, you probably will. But if you’ve been following our calendar then you’ve got your Christmas list covered, and you have the freedom to compare prices and get only what you want for the best possible price. (Read more tips on how to get the best bargains at Boxing Day sales.)
February
Stores are one again preparing for the change in season, getting rid of old stock to make room for their new collections. The fashion industry has also released its trend reports, so the demand for last year’s trends may also have dipped. But if you have your own personal style, then you’re fashion-savvy enough to know what looks good on you, trends be damned.
April
Summer dresses are marked down, though swimsuits are usually sold at discounted prices only after Memorial day. If you can’t get the prices you want from the bigger malls, head to the smaller boutiques, who are more flexible about when they go on sale. Just store the white items really well so they don’t get yellow and musty in your closet. And once again, it’s best to buy classic and flattering styles when you buy on sale–they’ll still look fresh and up to date when you wear them next summer.
Get even bigger deals! Read our article on 9 ways to get bigger shopping discounts.
Photo from allthelikes.com
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