It’s the end of summer and all the unpleasantries of fall are upon us: shorter days, back-to-school … and, naturally, massive end-of-season sales.
For some, the unbridled chaos and furor of these bargain blowouts are a version of torture, while others thrive on the blood-in-the-water frenzy. Make no mistake, the veneer of civilization at these affairs is as thin as Kate Moss, so arm yourselves with the following tips and you may emerge unsca thed. (We said ‘may’)
Arrive early
Nothing says hell on Earth like hordes of hysterics who have been stalking store aisles for weeks in advance. We’ve all seen the lines for the latest Harry Potter release, and there’s no magical way to dissipate vast groups of deal-driven bargain hunters. The elbow digging, shade-throwing and under-the-breath trash-talking make the NFL look like Little League, so unless you’re spoiling for an altercation, best get there early.
Have a goal
To preserve what little remains of your sanity, you must take a targeted approach. You are not there to buy everything; you are there to buy one, two or a scant few select pieces that suit your needs. If they don’t materialize, then LEAVE. Do not buy something just because you don’t want to depart empty handed.
Note the store’s return policy
The key is to not buy any “maybes” that you can only return for store credit. Everyone is on a budget these days, so even if the markdown is significant, it’s not a deal if you won’t wear it and can’t bring it back. It’s only a deal if you love it, need it and will wear it enough to make it worth the expenditure.
Be wary of anything too trend-driven or “of the moment.”
If an item won’t last more than a season, then beware—it may not be worth even a minimal investment, to say nothing of your gas money or coveted beauty rest.
Try on everything you buy.
Keep in mind you do not have to do this at the store; barring a prohibitive return policy. And do NOT be afraid to return the items that don’t work for you. Period. There is no shame in bringing back something you’ll never wear, no matter how cheap it was.
So steel your nerves, wipe away those tears and bring your A game—there are deals to be had!
