Sale Time

Tips for navigating & a few gems...

It’s that time of year and the sales are everywhere. Sales are funny because they tend to cause this panicked feeling that you need everything you see and now is your last chance to scoop it up. I don’t love sale shopping for this exact reason, and it’s why I tend to steer away from advertising sales here/on instagram. The caveat being that if you are in need of a few key pieces and are very intentional with your shopping, it’s an excellent time to get some real value and stretch your dollar. With that in mind, a few points of guidance for successful sale shopping with a few sale gems along the way…

Tips

1. Always reference your ‘list’ first. Ideally we all have an ongoing “I Want” list on our phone notes. Whenever you’re getting dressed and you feel like there’s a distinct hole, that item gets thrown on the list. Even better, sometimes you come across the exact piece to fill the hole and you jot that down too - all the better to reference during sale time and see if you can snag it in your size. Lists make sure we’re adding real value to our closet, and staying away from fluff that actually makes getting dressed a little trickier.

   

   Khait Belt also available in silver and matter leather, the buckle hardware is so great | Anderson’s Belt love a croc/textured belt | Toteme Scarf, in black too, or this Marni is very fun | Lie Studio Earrings or for something a little different, these Sophie Buhai are very cool | Eliou Earrings love the organic shape | Aritzia Blazer the nipped waist and collarless lapel are a little different - a great silhouette to for anything from denim to trousers and skirts

2. Run every item through your ‘personal style test’. Also ideally, you have a clear sense of what you do and don’t like. Are you a florals person? Do you gravitate towards colour? Allison Bornstein has the 3-word method, some people have Pinterest boards, or a folder of style images they’re inspired by; whatever your method, run each piece through your individual filter to ensure you’re buying something you’ll actually wear and love long term.

   

   I have a lot of images saved, but I often come back to this one because it really captures how I want to feel every day. It’s a good reminder for me that I really want the classics, but with an ease to them, a mix of high/low, denim and tailored, and a lot of navy :)

3. Accessories, accessories, accessories. If you need accessories, sales are excellent because (shoes aside) sizing is less of an issue, and as they’re often higher priced items, you can really see some savings here. A great accessory can work in with your everyday favourites, get tons of wear, and really make an impact in your closet.

   

   Lie Studio perfect bag to throw in your tote, run out to lunch/errands with | Hunting season amazing zipped clutch - works as a pouch or out to dinner | Hunting Season seasonal, but the perfect mix of raffia and leather | Toteme I love this bag - a bit more seasonal with the canvas, but the perfect crossbody that doubles as a clutch. Great for everyday or travel. Aester Ekme such great work totes and love this asymmetrical shape and colour | Toteme love the mix of materials, also available in wool (think ahead to fall/winter!) | Little Liffner a classic and this rust colour is so interesting, but works with everything.

4. Pay attention to sizing charts. We all have an idea of our size range, but this is where actually measuring ourselves and referencing sizing charts is well worth it. Another option is to order multiple sizes, which is a little controversial, and only works when items aren’t final sale (on that note, avoid buying final sale unless you’ve tried it/know the item fits!). But this way you have the option of trying both sizes, rather than realizing you bought the incorrect size and your true size is no longer available - devastating.

5. Don’t buy multiples. Unless it’s a staple like a favourite t-shirt, underwear, etc., avoid the temptation to buy that cardigan you love in 3 colours, just because it happens to be on sale. You’ll likely have a preference for one of the colours and truly that is the one you will reach for 95% of the time. It’s especially had to see this in sale time, but less is always more :)

6. Look a season ahead. When we’re in the moment it’s hard to think of the weather coming ahead, but take a look at your list - do you need a new coat? A go-to scarf? All kinds of gems pop up in sales and you might just score your hero piece for fall.

   

   Nili Lotan I’ve always loved this jacket - the fur is removable, it’s easy to dress up or down | Toteme classic, forever piece | Toteme great transitional coat with the light quilt | Coach a short trench is so useful in the shoulder seasons - love the shape of this one

And so…

Have fun with the sales, but make sure you take a second or two before buying. A little reflection goes a long way to spending wisely, both in terms of your wallet, and what you choose to add to your closet collection - every piece counts! I’ll continue to update links to my shopmy page as I come across interesting pieces - take a look if you have some holes you’re looking to fill.

Lastly, next week’s post with be for paid subscribers as it’s the last of the month. If you have any questions/requests, please send them along and otherwise, make sure to subscribe for the full content :)

Morgan xx