Christmas Sales 2015/16: My Guide To Smart Sale Shopping

I love the sales, but can’t stand IRL sale shopping.

I’ve never been one for scrabbling in hoards of shoppers with sharpened elbows, spending hours in the queue for the changing room and then another hour in the queue for the check out. It literally is my idea of hell.

Thank goodness for online shopping right? Leisurely surfing my favourite retailers, glass of prosecco in hand whilst also perusing Pinterest and my favourite style bloggers for inspiration! It’s a fashionista’s dream!

For me the sales are a great time to invest in those luxe classics and designers at a snip of the price. Don’t be swayed by big discounts though, always ask yourself, pre-purchase whether you’d buy it if it was full price. If the answer is no…will you actually wear it?

Even in the sales, you should judge each item on a cost per wear basis. Hands up who’s bought an extravagant sale item simply because it was discounted, only to wear it once before casting it to the back of your wardrobe. I imagine most of us are guilty of this…I know I am!

If you have time, it’s also worth doing a recce of your existing wardrobe and assess what you actually need.

I’m a sucker for LBDs and can’t resist buying them even at full price. So when it comes to the sales I can easily get carried away, when really I should be investing in is new jumpers and tops too.

(Although one little LBD won’t hurt right? After all, NYE is just around the corner).

Below I’ve rounded up some of the smartest fashion buys from this year’s sales. The online department stores are the best place to shop, you’ll save time, discover new labels and you can take advantage of some amazing discounts of up to 60% off!

Each year the sales start earlier and earlier and many are already live, so act fast and enjoy the best bargains the internet has to offer.

Harvey Nichols (up to 60% off)

Victoria Beckham Denim blue panelled denim top – £98 (was £245 60% off)

The sales are great time to invest in some of next season’s hottest trends. Lightweight denim will be huge for spring and this panelled top from Victoria Beckham Denim is a super chic take on the trend.

Alexander Wang Black Biker Boots, £297 (was £595 – 50% off)

Black leather boots are a great sales investment – a classic item that is eternally stylish. These stunning biker boots would get the Kate Moss seal of approval and are perfect for the winter months, or teaming with a dress and bare legs for laid back spring style.

Karl Lagerfeld brown belted faux fur gilet – £114 (was £285 60% off)

Wrap up warm in style in this luxurious fur gilet. The stunning chocolate hue of the fur is simply irresistible, whilst the chunky studded leather belt gives it a truly modern feel.

Net-A-Porter (up to 50% off)

Jil Sander Brushed Wool and Cashmere Blend Coat – £975 (was £1950 – 50% off)

The sales are a great time to invest in a winter coat. A pricey purchase, but if you go for classic tailoring and a neutral palette, it will last you for years to come. A favourite with Victoria Beckham, camel coats are a wardrobe essential and I love this simple yet stunning Jil Sander version.

L’Agent by Agent Provocateur Tulle Underwire Bra – £36 (was £60 – 30% saving)

The sales are a great time to buy underwear. Unlike other clothing, negligee isn’t dictated by trends and you can find some really beautiful pieces at massively reduced prices. Head to Net-A-Porter for great discounts on Agent Provocateur, La Perle and Heidi Klum intimates.

Victoria by Victoria Beckham Red Bleat Dress – £324 (was £540 – 40% off)

Pleats are one of the biggest trends for Spring Summer 2016 and this traffic stopping number from Victoria Beckham’s diffusion range is one of the most chic ways to embrace the trend.

Topshop Unique feather embellished mini-dress £417 (was £595 – 30% off)

If you’re looking for a NYE outfit with the wow factor, you’re in luck! The sales are awash with killer dresses, ensuring you start 2016 off how you mean to go on…looking pretty damn fabulous, darling! Swooning at statement feather cuffs here!

Matches (up to 50% off)

Altuzarra shadow leopard print midi-dress, £551 was £778

Like black, animal print never goes out style making it a great sale investment. I can never get enough of leopard. Ever.

Stella McCartney square framed sunglasses – £105 (was £175 – 40% off)

If you’re already have a 2016 holiday destination in mind, the January sales can be a great time to pick up summer essentials for a bargain. Keep an eye for great deals on stylish swimwear, beachwear and sunglasses – like these classic tortoise shell sunnies by Stella McCartney.

Lanvin sugar leather shoulder bag, £980 (was £1400 – 30% off)

If you’re lusting after a designer bag, the sales area great time to indulge. As with coats, it can be a pricey purchase but again opt for stylish and timeless designs to ensure you are still using it for seasons to come.

The Outnet (up to 70% off)

Marni Leather tote – £296 (was £570 – 48% off)

The Outnet offers great designer discounts all year round, but that doesn’t mean it should be overlooked come sale time. They offer some of best discounts around from the hottest labels – such as this uber chic Marni leather tote bag.

Cédric Charlier asymmetric strapless crepe dress, £334.99 (was £670 – 50% off)

Be the brightest fashionista on the block in this bold citrus dress. Orange is literally the new black- and is one of next season’s top trends, so invest now while prices are slashed.

7 For All Mankind, mid-rise skinny jeans, £90 (was £200 – 55% off)

Good quality jeans are another essential sale purchase. 7 for mankind are an A-lister favourite and no wonder, flattering and stylish they are worth every penny…

What have you got your eye on in the sales?