When the large department shops start their end-of-season sales early, you know there are going to be some fantastic bargains to be had in retail world.

With winter only beginning today, you might put together your full cold-weather wardrobe from discount products.

BUT.

What happens during end-of-season sales is that we get caught up in the excitement of what we're "saving" without bringing mindfulness into the shopping equation.

There's no disputing the pleasure of the hunt when it comes to finding a good deal, but remember: it's not a good deal until you love it! I mean, truly love.

How To Shop Clothes and Accessories at End-Of-Season Sales

1. Before adding to cart, know what you have in your closet. I KNOW you're wondering when that woman will quit harping on about it. In a nutshell, never. EVER. Knowing exactly what you have in your closet is essential for always having something to wear. It's also important to know what you need to add to it. (Want to know how to edit your wardrobe? Please see this post.)

2. Create a list. I either use my phone's Notes app or Wunderlist for this, or I use a piece of paper and a pen. I don't care how you complete the list; just complete it. This list not only helps you shop for wardrobe gaps, but it also helps you stay focused on the work at hand and not get captivated by the types of garments you already own - or the excessively sequined ones (oops, maybe that's just me?).

3. Devote a larger portion of your shopping money to purchasing wardrobe essentials. Perhaps you require a pair of jeans? Is that a blazer? A knit? Perhaps it's locating a terrific pair of work sneakers. Whatever those necessities are, spend the majority of them before purchasing the show ponies.

4. Begin your shopping day at opening time if you are going to a physical store. Not only will the racks and shelves be neat and tidy, but you won't have to compete for the change rooms as much. It will simply be less stressful all around. Work it nicely with your list, and you'll be home or off to lunch before everyone else.

5. Wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off. You must try on everything you are considering purchasing. No time to experiment? Take a step back. In the summer, I wear a flowy dress with no zippers and shoes that are easy to take off. I always wear nude underwear when trying on sheer garments since it gives you a better notion of how it would look than wearing your black lace underpants.

6. If you're going to browse the sales online, take your measurements BEFORE you start clicking. Having your breast, waist, and hip measurements handy can allow you to better match your potential purchase. If you're an online pro, you've already signed up for email notifications from all your favourite stores. If you're still getting the hang of internet shopping, these newsletters are essential for staying up to date on sales and special offers.

7. Make a note of the shopping terms and conditions for orders placed during the sales period. On reduced items, most stores do not accept refunds or exchanges.

8. Maintain your concentration. Stick to your plan. First, prioritise your requirements. Be aware and cautious of what you're purchasing.

9. Do not buy new clothing just because it is on sale. As previously stated, just because something is a steal does not imply it should accompany you home. Justify the purchase by stating that it complements your present clothing, lifestyle, and wardrobe personality. If it checks all of those criteria and saves you some money, that, my friends, is what we call WINNING.

So, tell me, have you already gone shopping? What did you score? What's on your hit list now?

Save 50% On Goddiva's Autumn-Winter Edit.

Some of our most popular pieces have very limited sizes left; others have sold out. What's left has been reduced by half. When you support my store, you create a large ripple effect. We do a happy dance, and so do our fantastic suppliers. The sale ends on Monday.