What is one of the first signs of spring? It’s not just tulips and Easter candy. It’s retail stores marking down winter merchandise and it’s starting now!
If you still need some things to add to your winter wardrobe, you can find some great deals right now. January and February are the best months to get the largest selection of winter clearance merchandise because stores are marking things down to make room for spring and summer.
If you’ve rested up from all your Christmas shopping and ready to hit the stores, I’ve got a plan for you to make the most of your winter clearance shopping. First, go back and read Getting Your Wardrobe Ready For Winter, and then get ready to plan your winter clearance shopping.
PLAN YOUR SHOPPING
- First, grab pen and paper and go to your closet. Look through what you currently have. Write down anything that you have been needing for your winter wardrobe but haven’t bought yet.
- Add to your list anything that you have that is starting to wear out and needs to be replaced before next winter.
- Add to your list anything that you’ve been wanting but haven’t bought yet because it was out of your budget. With clearance sales, you might find it at a good price.
- Add to your list the pieces that would add some flair and versatility to your current wardrobe. Maybe you have too many neutrals, but would like to add some prints or lighter colors.
- Add to your list some pieces that would help your wardrobe as you transition to Spring. For example, you might find a jacket that will work great for early spring.
- Add other items to your list such as shoes, purses, jewelry, and pajamas.
- Take this list, prioritize it, and set an estimated amount for each item.
The following are some specific things you might want to look for that will be on clearance:
- Winter coats
- Winter scarves
- Winter hats
- Winter gloves
- Boots
- Winter sweaters
- Winter vests
- Holiday party clothing
- Winter pajamas and robes
- Fitness gear (on sale, not necessarily clearance)
CLEARANCE SHOPPING TIPS
- Always shop with the next winter season in mind. Only buy things you’ll wear this winter and next winter.
- Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale. Make sure it fits your lifestyle, body type, and is in a flattering color.
- Make sure it’s an item that will go with at least three other things you have in your closet.
- Buy basic or classic styles. Trendy things might not be in style by next fall.
- Buy colors that work with other clothes you have.
- Look for items that you would love to have, but could never pay full price for. This is a great time for investment items.
- Consider buying things that would be great transitional items. For example, you might want to buy lightweight sweaters in lighter colors for early spring. You also might find a great jacket.
- Be sure to look for other special sales and coupons. Some stores will have an additional discount on top of the clearance price.
MORE WINTER SALE SHOPPING TIPS
January and February is also a great time to buy some other winter merchandise such as:
- Christmas and winter decor
- Christmas wrapping supplies
- TVs (these sometimes go on sale right before the Super Bowl)
- Cameras
Keep in mind that some clearance merchandise will be marked down even more in February, however, the selection won’t be as good.
I hope you’re motivated to head out with your shopping plan and find some great deals! Let me know if you’ve got some other tips for us to make the most of the winter sales.
Have a wonderful day and happy shopping!