The shops want a clear-out after Christmas to make way for new Spring stock, so want to sell their clothing etc at a price to attract sales.
BEWARE
i) The price – is it a bargain?
What is the reason you are attracted to this item? If it is the price maybe that’s not the best consideration. And, how much of a discount is it on the original price? In the UK, the retailer is supposed to abide by the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, which govern the rules around sale prices. Here are some key points:
- Original Price Disclosure: Retailers must show the original price and ensure it was the price at which the product was sold for a “meaningful period of time”.
- Genuine Discounts: Discounts should be genuine and not misleading. For example, a discount claimed against a significantly higher recommended retail price is not allowed.
- Clear and Accurate Information: All promotional information must be clear, accurate, and not ambiguous.
- Duration of Sales: There’s no strict “28-day” rule anymore, but the original price should have been in effect for a reasonable period before the sale.
ii) Scams
Nowadays there are two aspects to the sales, and it is already being reported that online sales shopping has increased this year. Let’s face it, who wants to drive/use fuel/pay to park (if you can find a space anywhere near where you want to go)/wait for a bus, potentially get cold and or wet, when you can shop from the comfort of your home?
But, scams are so rife now and getting better all the time in terms of imitating real websites, using fake links etc that it is very easy to get caught out.
Plus, when you “buy before you try” you are more likely to run the risk of needing to return things.
CHECK THE RETURNS POLICY
Before you click, or purchase in store, please check the returns policy for SALE items. A retailer’s rules are usually different to shopping at the full price. You usually get less time to make up your mind for a return, may only be offered a credit note, or not be allowed any form of return/refund.
Being rushed into a decision
Rushed purchases are more likely to not be great because they have not been fully thought-through. If you are determined to bag a bargain, it will only be a bargain if you use it!
Stylists talk about “price per wear”, which means the more you use something, the more worth the investment it was. If you pay £100 for a dress, and wear it 10 times, it will be better value than a dress that was 50% off (ie £50) but you may only wear it once (and usually regret buying it in the first place!). In these days of sustainable shopping, we need to consider more than ever about how many times we think we will use something.
So, my advice for sales shopping is this, BEFORE you hit the shops or click that link:
- Review your wardrobe for items you may NEED rather than just want. If something is wearing out or worn out and needs replacing, put it on a list. Even if you don’t find it in the sale, the next opportunity may present itself – maybe in a charity or pre-loved shop – and you will still “get a bargin”.
- Stick to the list!
- Have you thought about budget? How much would you normally pay for this item?
- Did you have your eye on something when it was full price – maybe now’s the time to see if it is there and in your size.
- Check for quality. If there are lots of the same thing in the sale, it could indicate that the original price wasn’t seen as worth the item when it was at its normal price. Look at the material, lining (if there is one), the care label, and the quality of stitching/matching patterns at the seams etc to determine the garment’s quality.
Other advice about hitting the sales generally:
- Usually the best bargains are at the beginning of the sale, not what’s left at the end.
- If you have time, can you compare prices across your favourite brands?
- Have you signed up for newsletters? (Sometimes you can get a further discount by signing up for a newsletter – normally online though.)
- Can you use a discount card or use a cashback website or card? Do you have a “Blue Light” card which gives discount to NHS, Council workers and Services personnel.
And finally,
If you are able to return something unwanted for a refund, I advise checking the money has reached your account. This can be some days after you receive confirmation that you will get a refund.
I hope that’s a helpful summary of things to consider before you rush to spend your hard-earned cash.
Take care: it’s a jungle out there!
Oh, and if you want any impartial advice, you know who to call …
FionaPersonalShopper
07469 246722
Your DRESS WITHOUT STRESS Consultant
