“Buying something on sale is a very special feeling. In fact, the less I pay for something, the more it is worth to me. I have a dress that I paid so little for that I am afraid to wear it. I could spill something on it, and then how would I replace it for that amount of money?” ~Rita Rudner
A bargain is only a bargain when you wanted the item at full price and secured for less in the sale. The trouble is that during the sales, your wardrobe can easily get stuffed full of ‘bargains’ that may never see the light of day. So how do you know if your truly getting a good deal? House of Colour‘s Maria Macklin tells us how to make the most of the sales.
Here’s an interesting statistic: most of us wear 15% of our clothes 85% of the time. Wouldn’t it be better to love 100% of your wardrobe – all the time?
A bargain may not always be cheap. It may be the item you have coveted for a long time and can now afford. It may also be that item from your capsule wardrobe list which you can now buy. A true bargain still has to make you look and feel fantastic every time you wear it.
When shopping in the sales (or anytime for that matter) always remember the cost per wear equation.
The price of a garment isn’t just the amount of money you pay for it. Think about your most loved piece of clothing and try this simple equation:
Cost of garment ÷ the number of times you wear it = cost per wear
Cost per wear can turn even the most expensive clothing into a bargain – especially when you factor in the amount of confidence you get from wearing it.
Here are some easy tips to bring with you when shopping in the sales.
- Have a shopping list – for the same reason that you have a list when buying food having a shopping list when shopping for clothes stops you buying those nasty sugary treats – or those rash purchases.
- Ensure that the item is flexible – Check that it can be worn with lots of other items in your wardrobe. Is it a useful item? Every ‘bottom’ in your wardrobe should have six tops to go with it.
- Is the item in one of your best neutrals or one of your 100% wow colours? When you have your colour analysis you’ll learn which are your best neutrals, those items which go with everything else in your colour palette. You’ll also discover which of your colours make you look the most amazing. Invaluable information to have during a sale.
- Repeat Buying – many of us fall into the trap of ‘repeat buying’. something looks good, so we stay safe and buy something as close to it over and over again. It’s particularly tempting when there’s money off your repeat item.
Is it a quality item?
During 2017, make a pact with yourself to buy less and buy better. A quality item will last longer and becomes an investment piece. Buying less satisfies the current decluttering fad, is better for the environment and your pocket.
Rather than filling your wardrobe gap with an `it’ll do’, leave the money in your bank account so it’s ready to invest in that perfect colour and style – something that looks gorgeous for the long term.
By Maria Macklin
Want some expert help?
Maria is available for a personal Wardrobe Review. This is the easiest, quickest way to create a perfect capsule wardrobe. She will go through your wardrobe with you, identifying those unloved or repeat items, finding the gaps and re-introducing you to fabulous clothes you already own. Afterwards, you’ll wear and love 100% of your clothes – not just 15%.
Even better? Why not take her with you to the sales on a Shopping Trip together where you’ll get a very focused shopping trip and won’t be allowed to stray too much!
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