This is the time of the year when I de-clutter my home and donate household and clothing items I haven't used in the last year to make room for things of new.
Since it's gift-giving and receiving time, many of us will receive cash or gift cards to retail stores to purchase those apparel items we desire or need. Since this is a fashion blog, I will reveal the best times of the year to shop for certain clothing items that will normally be at deeply discounted or clearance prices. This rule also applies to shopping at thrift stores.
January:
You may be tempted to buy resort wear like caftans, flirty dresses, shorts, and bathing suits - but it's actually the best time to buy outerwear (coats and jackets). Stores are cutting prices on outerwear to make room for spring apparel. So if there's a pea coat or puffer jacket that you always wanted but didn't want to pay full price - you can get it at a steal and still have the opportunity to wear it!
February:
Spring blazers and raincoats will be on display in the stores, but go for stocking up on classic winter accessories like hats, scarfs, gloves, and boots. These items will be reduced for the end of the winter season.
March:
You may see the newest spring shade of denim (coral, lime, hot pink) and light-weight cardigans, but it's the best time to buy fragrances - especially those gift with purchase promos. If you are a Bath & Body Works fan, this is when they have their semi-annual sale where you not only can stock up on your favorite body scents, but home fragrances and candles too.
April:
It's approaching that time to wear sandals and bare legs, so you might be looking at those pretty summer dresses. Instead, look for the resort wear that appeared in January. Those caftans, shorts, and lightweight tunics will be at clearance prices so the stores can make room for their summer deliveries.
May:
The stores will want you to stock up on beach wear and sandals, but it's a great time to scour the sales racks for heavy-weight knits and cashmere sweaters - which will be at a fraction of the original price.
June:
Summer tanks and tees may be on display, but spring sandals will be on sale.
July:
Fall deliveries in the newest shades, as well as dark denim colors (olive, wine, dark grey) will be on display at the stores. Go for deep discounted and discontinued swimwear and sandals (since the "summer" season is migrating into the "back to school" season).
August:
The back to school season provides very little discounting on clothing. However, those spaghetti-strap dresses and summer casual items will be cheaper.
September:
Look - but don't buy the cooler-weather clothing such as long-sleeve tops, denim jackets and blazers. Instead, think about stocking up on summer travel accessories like beach totes and weekend bags.
October:
The stores will display the heavy-weight knits, sweaters and winter pants - but you may be able to find a few lightweight transition pieces (like a cotton jacket) to wear once spring has sprung.
November:
Coats and boots will be on display, and everyone will be looking for their holiday outfit, or just preparing for the holiday season - but jeans will be at an incredible price!
December:
It's the busiest time of the year for retailers as we buy gifts for others, and outfits for ourselves to wear to all those holiday parties. Sales are suggestive - and truly not a real savings.
If you are getting married in the near future, December is the best time to shop for a wedding dress and dresses for your bridal party. Bridal shops typically have sample sales and dress prices that can be slashed up to 80 percent during this time.
