As someone who has worked in the fashion industry for 15 years now, I’ve seen the rise and fall of hundreds of trends. It makes me a bit of a weary shopper but a conscious one, and that’s no bad thing; I like to only invest in pieces that I know will go the distance. Rather than get swept up into the latest this or that, I try to tailor each season to my personal style DNA, and that’s precisely how I approach the Christmas sales on the high street.
There are certain colours, cuts and key pieces that just suit me and the way I like to dress, but I’ve also come to be able to pinpoint the most classic and worthwhile wardrobes for the wardrobes of many others. We may not have the same taste, but there are certain capsule closet essentials that are never a bad idea to stock up on if you know you wear them heaps already—perfect knits, easy trousers and comfy shoes are all up there for me. Additionally, I can also spy a trend that has longevity or the potential to boomerang back around again. For example, if you buy into a particular kind of classic print—say ditsy floral or leopard—there is a chance said pattern might fall out of favour for a couple of years, but it will always, always return.
Things I would never buy in the sales?
1. Daring trends that I’ve haven’t already worn and decided are “me”.
2. Pieces that are low in quality and comprised of very synthetic fabrics (ie an acrylic knit that will bobble as soon as you unpack it).
3. A size too small! As much as I’d like to convince myself I’ll lose weight and something will look amazing in a few months’ time, it never tends to happen.
Things I would buy in the sales?
1. Multiples of something that I already own or a piece I discover that fits well and feels like great quality.
2. Classics and staples—especially ones that are normally more expensive.
3. Something that is a size (or more) too big, because you can always get it tailored to fit.
From COS to Boden, Arket to & Other Stories, I’ve filtered through thousands of discounted products to bring you the items that are actually worth investing in during the Boxing Day sales on the high street. Keep scrolling to shop my timeless edit.
