Making a success of the sales:

1 Plan: It's all in the preparation, go in store and check out what you like, what you need. (Be ready for sales in January 2004!)

2 Do not buy for buying's sake, you will regret it. You can have too many blue shirts.

3 Look for labels that are normally beyond your budget - even the likes of Gucci, Prada, Hugo Boss, Armand Basi or Victorvictoria with 50 to 70 per cent off are within the reach of most of us.

4 My mantra is "investment buy" buy to keep for years and years think black overcoats, sweaters. Check out suits, sales can bring the opportunity for you to go top quality to last for years. Check out Boss, DKNY, Daks, Armani. Try the more expensive look that navy blue can give you. Remember, fit is everything. Note, free alterations are often suspended during the sale time and therefore shortening of trousers etc can be expensive.

5 Do not buy anything in a smaller size than you would normally buy. Don't think that your New Year's resolution to finally do that fitness programme will ensure you lose those added Christmas kilos. Better to wear those 36" waist Diesel jeans than to have the 32" hanging in the wardrobe.

6 Buy quality. Sales give everyone the opportunity to buy labels, but don't just choose something at half price because it's in right now and has a name. Think six months down the line you've still got the mortgage to pay and need clothes to last.

7 As we are all constantly told, fashion is about the total look. Sale time can therefore be the time to invest in those accessories that finish you off/make you stand out from the high street. Go get that Jil Sander belt (I bought two, two years ago, for £35 each, down from £130 each, they're worn daily and still look like new. Quality!) Look out for belts, bags, and of course ties. Always silk for ties. Shoes well there's another story.

8 Sales should be for you too be selfish, treat yourself, don't just rush out and buy for the wife and kids, chances are they've got far more than you already.

9 Make sure you really love what you choose, don't just buy it because it's a bargain.

10 Know when to stop. Have a budget, have a shopping list, collect your £200 of "bargains", have an espresso and then go home.

As for that emerald green/red patterned Versace shirt, half price? Forget it. Sooooooo last year!"

January 9, 2003 11:00