January Sales: Last Hurrah!
In the quest to invest in pieces that go the distance and make considered vs considerable purchases for the sake of a sale, the selection process requires more discipline. Add to that, the intention to shop my closet and better manage my finances, self-control is key in the impulse purchase department. Shiny new things are indeed tempting but fast fashion fades literally; trends come and go and may not check the boxes. After all you’ve got to know what brings you true joy, serving long term, transcending seasons. Fortunately many brands that have fallen into the fast fashion category have elevated their game, offering premium selections. Investment pieces, both high street and high end, may carry a heftier price tag but work harder so sale season is a great time to invest, as we recall the mantra : Cost-Per-Wear.
There will be times when we make a purchase for the fun of it. Life is short so eat the cake and all that. But as I’ve gotten older, the more conscientious I’ve become about where to invest my time, energy and money.
Once upon a time I would suffer the discomfort that followed a night out in fashion jewellery that irritated my skin or overindulge because the price was right, swearing by retail therapy a little too hard when it suited. I was always militant about craftsmanship however and would examine each item in great detail, making sure no stitch was out of place, only to be let down by the lack of longevity of certain pieces after a few washes. Sure, some would say at a bargain price, cost-per-wear worked out but it just never sat right. It felt wasteful. I am perfectly content with quality over quantity and while my wardrobe is by no means capsule size, I have become increasingly selective with every purchase.
A financial advisor once said to me, always sleep on a purchase. Very often I do. If I had a penny for every abandoned cart email! I call it ‘add to cart’ shopping. There is no FOMO here. I know when not to sleep on something too!
Sleeping on a purchase, big or small, will prevent buyer’s remorse and potentially save on the red tape and lack of sustainability with the returns process, whether it’s a DHL pick up or a trip back to the store. Sleeping on a purchase may also prevent impulse buys that wind up sitting at the back of your closet waiting to be Vinted or Depopped.
After some of the breathtaking Paris Couture Fashion Shows this past week, I felt inspired to get creative on many levels. And I cannot deny that Pier Paolo Piccioli took my breath away with a parade of stunning Valentino coats and jackets at a packed show with JLo in the frow.
No, I’m not about to say I bought myself a Valentino coat, although it would stay with me forever. I’ll put that one under Goals.
I did, in fact, add to my coat collection however (before and after the Valentino show) and I suggest that if you’re looking for a high quality coat that won’t blow your budget, &Other Stories is offering 20% off with the purchase of two items and the price of this beauty made me look twice. Sign up for an extra 10% off.
& Other Stories Oversized Shawl Collar Wool Coat (Mole) £63.20 (RRP £205)
&Other Stories makes absolutely beautiful, polished coats. My go-to wool coat which is on its second winter is a piece from the Scandi brand that consistently delivers premium outerwear. Sadly, this one is already sold out but there are other beautiful options that will take you through many winters and autumns to come.
&Other Stories Diamond Quilted Jacket £36 (RRP £126)
In-store and online, this one kept grabbing my attention. A pop of colour in winter can do that. It was hard to argue with that sale price!
Levi’s 501 ‘81 Jeans £45 (RRP £100)
Another price point that’s hard to argue with. The OG denim brand is a must-have. French women nail effortless style in 501’s; a wardrobe staple. Celebrating 150 years of the 501’s called for an upgraded design inspired by the 81’s which were the first style that Levi’s designed specifically for women. Made For You!
Psst … I might have bought a second pair in the 501 range, for even less, because they get better with time.
Adidas Gazelle Indoor Trainers Wonder Clay Clear Pink Gum £70 (RRP £90)
I don’t need trends to influence the gravitational pull of a great pair of Adidas. My trainer/sneaker collection is dominated by the brand, to be fair. Comfort, colour, style and an oh-so-me aesthetic? Check! Gazelles continue to trend but they’re flying off the shelves so run, don't walk, if you find them in your size.
Adidas Originals Handball Spezial Trainers £56 (RRP £85)
So nice, I did it twice. I go for trainers, even in winter, when I can get away with it so it’s worthwhile to get them at a bargain. These are sold out in multiple colour-ways but …
Two words : Email Alerts!
Arket High Neck Pile Jacket £66.40 (RRP £139)
If you look at an item every time you’re in store or online, that’s saying something. That’s been the case here. Adding even more texture to the outerwear section of my wardrobe with this one. The quality of Arket’s pieces are great and treating your clothing with care will guarantee longevity.
