As the festive frenzy subsides, the allure of the Boxing Day sales beckons, offering a silver lining to December's spending. With discounts rolling through January, it's tempting to splurge on impulse buys. However, a simple strategy can ensure your money is well spent: shopping your own wardrobe first.
The 'Shop Your Wardrobe' Strategy: Your First Step to Smarter Spending
Before you browse a single sale rail, stylist Oriona Robb advocates for a thorough audit of your existing clothes. This process, dubbed 'shopping your wardrobe', involves rediscovering and restyling pieces you already own. "It's about curating outfits from your existing collection rather than rushing to buy new items," Robb explains. Much like checking your kitchen cupboards before a food shop, this prevents unnecessary duplicates and clarifies what you truly need.
Robb outlines four key steps for an effective wardrobe audit: auditing, mixing and matching, accessorising, and altering. Start by taking everything out to review; you might find forgotten favourites. Next, experiment by layering summer dresses with turtlenecks or pairing blazers with jeans in new ways. Use accessories like belts and jewellery to refresh looks. Finally, consider repairing or altering damaged or ill-fitting items instead of replacing them.
How to Declutter Effectively for a Clearer View
To streamline the process and make smarter shopping decisions, Robb recommends a structured declutter. Follow her expert steps:
The one-year rule: If you haven't worn an item in the past year (excluding sentimental or occasion wear), consider donating or selling it.
Sort by category: Group similar items like tops and trousers together to see what you have in abundance.
Create sections: Divide your wardrobe into daily essentials, workwear, and special occasions for easy navigation.
Invest in good hangers: Uniform, slimline hangers save space and maintain clothing condition.
Store seasonally: Rotate out-of-season items to reduce clutter.
Quality over quantity: Keep versatile, well-made pieces that reflect your personal style.
"You'll not only free up space but develop a clearer understanding of what's missing, helping you shop smarter during the sales," Robb tells Metro.
Six Investment Pieces to Target in the Boxing Day Sales
Once you know what you need, you can shop the Boxing Day sales with purpose. Robb advises focusing on high-quality essentials in neutral colours and classic silhouettes. "Avoid buying trends that might not carry into the next year," she cautions. Here are the six categories to prioritise:
1. Outerwear: Invest in a timeless wool coat or tailored trench in black, navy, or camel. These pieces can last for years.
2. Workwear: Look for durable shirts, suits, and blazers made from fabrics like linen, wool, or cotton.
3. Knitwear: Sales are an ideal time to invest in luxurious yet practical cashmere jumpers or cardigans.
4. Jeans: Seek out a perfect-fitting pair of high-quality jeans. If shopping online, have your measurements handy to navigate inconsistent sizing.
5. Shoes: Look for discounted leather boots or versatile flats that will remain wardrobe staples.
6. Occasion Wear: Plan ahead for 2025 events. Robb also recommends looking for discounted jewellery and clutch bags.
By following this two-step plan—first shopping your own wardrobe, then strategically targeting key items in the sales—you can maximise the post-Christmas sales bonanza without succumbing to buyer's remorse.
