HOME::Shopping-and-Product-Reviews/Fashion-Style X Don't Let the Clothing Shops Win in the Sales - Buy With Knowledge and Don't Waste Your Money

One of the only benefits of the current economic situation is that shops are thrusting exceptional discounts at us from all sides, their intention being to tempt us to part with our hard earned cash at every opportunity. But how do we guarantee that any clothes we buy in the sales are not only good long-term investments but also that they are the right style and colour to make us look our best?

Before hitting the shops, the first thing you should do is review your clothes and accessories and make a list of exactly what you need to buy to fill any gaps in your wardrobe. Secondly, set yourself a budget and try not to go over this, you could even budget per item if you felt this was useful. If you know where you will be shopping, then making a list of shops you definitely want to visit should ensure that you make the best use of your shopping time.

Knowing which colours suit you best, the ones that give your face and skin an instant lift is vital since, when you know which your most flattering colours are, you will never again buy an item that finds itself sitting in the wardrobe unworn. The result of wearing your ideal colours is that you will not only be more confident but you will look younger and healthier too!

Next you should establish which body shape you are. You do not want to make the mistake of buying tight pencil skirts which make your thighs look bigger if you are a pear shape. Equally, wide-legged trousers which emphasise your lack of curves would be wrong if you have a rectangular body shape. Wearing the correctly styled clothes will immediately give you more confidence in your appearance.

When you do find an item you would consider buying you must ask yourself if it is really the correct item for you. Do you really need it or is the bargain dress you are holding in your hand very similar to the one you currently have hanging in your wardrobe?

These are all useful points to consider when shopping but if you are still struggling to decide which are the best buys for you, then why not invest in a full style and colour consultation with an image consultant. You will learn skills that should last you for a lifetime's shopping for just the cost of two or three of those items in your wardrobe that you have bought and never worn.

Caroline Husbands is a Senior Image Consultant with Colour Me Beautiful. Services include colour analysis and make-up lessons. Colour Me beautiful are registered image training providers with the Federation of Image Consultants.