While some regions within the United States might currently be experiencing snowfall, many of us are starting to eagerly anticipate warmer temperatures. Despite the calendar still showing winter months, a number of shops are already displaying swimsuits, which is somewhat surprising considering we’re only in February. However, if summer clothing is already here, when would be the most suitable time to invest in winter clothes?
End of Season –
For parents with growing children, you are quite accustomed to the rapid rate at which they outgrow their outfits, sometimes in the midst of a season, which is quite inconvenient! But imagine if they outgrew their clothes at season’s end; this could turn out to be a fortune saver.
Right now, with winter coming to an end, the goal is to make do with what we’ve got and resist purchasing new items. If we can hold off a bit longer, significant discounts will be ours for the taking. Since stores are making room for summer collections, remaining winter stock will be offered at substantial markdowns in the coming weeks, if not already. The only downside is perhaps a less diverse selection due to limited remaining stock.
Prime Time –
If you are particular about specific items for the next winter or have precise size requirements, waiting till season’s end may not be your best option. The risk lies in the potential scarcity of your desired items or sizes. If that happens, you’ll be left with no choice but to wait for the arrival of the new winter collection during highly priced months. Now, no one would want that! Therefore, if your winter wardrobe needs are defined, shop now or even better, a couple of weeks earlier.
Normally, post New Year begins the sale season for winter wear. The discounts gradually intensify to reach their peak generally by the end of February. Waiting until March might leave you with scarce options to pick from.
Consignment Sales –
This suggestion may not resonate with everyone, considering it primarily involves second-hand clothes. However, in my experience, I’ve been able to discover several new items with tags intact! For those comfortable buying pre-loved items, this is an excellent avenue to explore. One caveat is that the timing for winter wear purchases at consignment sales is quite different from regular retail stores. They usually offer fall/winter clothes in September or October and spring/summer clothes in February or March. For winter clothing, waiting until September or October is ideal.
Additional Tip –
A less-known strategy is leveraging the annual inventory management exercise of most retailers during this period. Retail inventory involves counting every item in the store, making it a tedious process the staff dislikes. This is good news for shoppers because retailers aim to reduce inventory pre-counting, leading to additional discounts. Consumer tip – watch out for signs of inventory management (bright signage or tags on products) and immediately head to the clearance section. Alternatively, ask a store employee about the inventory dates, revisit the store a few days prior with your checklist, and enjoy a fruitful shopping spree!
Winter Apparel Strategy
I understand our current mindset isn’t on buying winter clothing; we’re daydreaming of sunny, warm beaches instead. However, if we want to manage our clothing budget efficiently, considering future needs and planning pays off.
So here’s a simple winter clothing shopping plan to land the best deals:
– Shop immediately after New Year’s if you desire specific items or sizes with a modest discount.
– For steeper discounts, wait until season’s end, typically late February or early March.
– Determine when your preferred stores conduct their inventory, and shop a few days before for massive discounts.
– If you’re open to second-hand clothing and still need winter attire, wait until the fall/winter consignment sales around September/October.
By following these suggestions, stocking up on your winter wardrobe while staying within budget should be a cakewalk. I’m curious to hear about your shopping hacks for scoring the best deals on winter apparel.
