Top tips for shopping the Boxing Day sales

THE Boxing Day sales are the perfect time to snag a bargain, but stylist to the stars Lana Wilkinson says there’s a simple key shoppers need to remember before handing their credit card over.

The Boxing Day sales are the perfect time to snag a bargain, but the key is to shop trends that will see you through this season and beyond.

Leather, bold accessories, and romantic dresses, as well as designer shoes and bags, are on top of celebrity stylist Lana Wilkinson’s Boxing Day shopping list.

“This time of year is the perfect time to treat yourself or those you love without the guilt we often feel buying luxurious items,” she says.

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Life with Bird top $280, sale $156; Zara print skirt $89.95, sale price not available; Furla bag $449, sale $250 (autumn/winter colours only); Windsor Smith heels $129.95, sale $77.97. Picture: Tony Gough

“The ‘need versus want’ ­analogy often comes into play, with the ‘need’ often winning.

“However, during the sales period, with up to 70 per cent off, we can treat ourselves.

“Fashion has broken the rules this season, but the key pieces to invest in are leather goods, bold designer and high-street looks, shoes and bags.”

Wilkinson says this season has been about loads of colour, prints, statement accessories, and romantic ruffles.

“Bold colour and print separates or dresses or romantic frill blouses and skirts are a must-have for the summer season and beyond,” she says.

“Style back with denim and layer with jackets and boots through autumn-winter to get more wear out of your purchases.

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Steele leather jacket $499, sale $299.40; Steele Biker skirts $349, sale $209.40; Emilio Pucci heels $1000, sale $500. Picture: Tony Gough

“Leather is timeless, but often expensive. However, during the sales period you can often purchase leather (coloured, basic black or neutral) at a fraction of the recommended retail price.

“Leather is also trans-seasonal — you can wear it year-round. It’s a definite wardrobe ­staple, especially when paired with bold colours, black, white and denim.”

Designer bags and shoes are also a top seller during the sales, the Westfield shopping expert says.

Designer shoes and bags can often elevate a look, and during sales periods it’s the perfect time to buy quality over quantity. Luxury shoes and bags, when taken care of, can be worn for many seasons to come. Plus, it’s true: well-made shoes are way more comfortable,”

C/meo Collective dress $219.95, sale $165; Zara heels $69.95, sale price not available; Jimmy Choo bag $1855, sale $930. Picture: Tony Gough

BOXING DAY DOS AND DON’TS

• Mailing lists are your best friend. Check your favourite sites and subscribe to mailing lists so you are notified instantly. Most brands offer sale previews and VIP offers to their subscribers.

• Click and collect is the best way to have a hassle free shopping experience. Shop online and opt to collect your parcel from the store instead of trawling through racks or waiting in long waiting queues.

• Opt for a targeted approach by assessing your wardrobe beforehand and working out what you don’t have and need to buy, to avoid impulse spending.

• Always buy the right size. It’s not a bargain if it doesn’t fit well. Alterations are an additional cost

• Head to the change rooms for the best finds. Others will have tried pieces on and sales assistants and stylists may not have had time to put them back on the racks.

All clothing and accessories from Westfield Doncaster