If you have kids you probably take advantage of the back to school sales. But do you know when the best time of year is to buy other basics?
Most stylists will tell you that the best time to buy an article of clothing is when you really don't need it. For example, if you have to buy a party dress at the last minute you are stuck with choosing from what is currently in inventory at that particular period of time. That may mean you end up settling for something you don't absolutely love and will never wear again, and probably paying more than you originally intended.
If you regularly shop during peak sale periods, and at discount retailers, you can find some great deals and don't have to settle for something that isn't fabulous. The goal is to buy what you like when you find it, and pay a price you are comfortable with.
When is the peak sale period? For winter clothing, start looking for bargains late December and January. (This holds true even in areas that don't seem to have a true "winter season" including the Tampa Bay area). Summer clothing goes on sale in August.
When is the best time of week to shop? Thursday evenings. By Thursday most of the sales have begun and the racks haven't been picked-over yet. And plan to shop in the evening as most retail stores are least busy after 5:00 pm so you won't have to fight for dressing rooms or sales clerks.
Here is a list of the best time of year to shop for clothing and accessories:
Bathing Suits: July and August
Children's Clothing: July, September, November and December
Fall Clothing: November
Formal Dresses: January, April, June and November
Lingerie: January, May and July
Men's Clothing: August and December
Shoes: November, December, January and July
Spring Clothing: June
Summer Clothing: August and September
Winter Clothing: February
Don't forget to take advantage of the sales tax holiday!
Tampa Bay residents be sure to take advantage of the Florida sales tax holiday from Friday, August 12th to Sunday, August 14th. For more information go to http://saintpetersblog.com/2011/05/sales-tax-holiday-signed-into-law/.
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