It's that time of the year already; summer is on its way out and fall merchandise is rolling into all the stores. I spend a lot of time checking out retailers for sales, new trends, and styles that I feature here on the blog. I thought it would be great to share a few of the "tricks-of-the trade" with you when it comes to shopping the sale racks and clearance this time of the year.
I have spent a huge amount of my career in retail as a store manager and also working with brands on the blogging side of things. Most retailers end their fiscal year at the end August, meaning that July 1 through August 31 is a huge time for pushing merchandise off the sales floor so that new product can take its place. Back-to-school through holiday is a huge money making time for retailers. They want full price product on the sales floor for these peak sales times. That is way you see so many "Clearance," "Sidewalk Sales," "End of Season," "Anniversary" and "Flash Sales" in the months of July and August.
So what does all of this mean for YOU...
1. If you wanted a trendy piece or summer style that you didn't get before now, this is likely the lowest price you are going to find it. Don't wait for more markdowns, because this is probably it for this season.
2. Do not buy something just because it's on sale. If you love it buy it; if not move on. A really great sale is tempting, but if you wouldn't buy it at full price, then don't buy it on sale. Save your pennies for new season gems that will excite you about your upcoming fall wardrobe.
3. Try everything on!! Don't buy anything without trying it on first. Some sales are final, and you don't want to get stuck with something that doesn't fit your body correctly. Know the return policies at checkout and make sure things fit you well before buying.
4. Save some of your end-of-season purchases for the beginning of next season. If you find something from summer on major sale and you love it, save it until next season. It will give you new items to look forward to and save you money on your spring/summer wardrobe next year.
5. If you find something you love on sale, scoop it up quick! Things don't last long this time of the year, especially staple items that can be worn for several seasons. These pieces sell quick, sometimes within hours of being marked down.
6. Be smart with your purchases! Make a plan before you start shopping and stick to it!
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