Stores usually go on 50%-80% off sales after Christmas. Not this year. I was surprised to see that Anne Taylor Loft and the Gap have already slashed their prices considerably.

• Ann Taylor Loft has reduced most of their party wear and accessories. Cashmere is 50% off; pullovers and cardigans are between $30-$40; knit tops are selling from $13 onwards.
• Gap is having an insane sale (a reaction to poor sales performance of late?). Most T-shirts are between $4-$10; hats and scarves between $7- $12; knitwear between $14-$18 and heavy winter coats for about $70. Note that in store discounts are deeper than those online (at the time of this post). 

Be sure to check out these sales if you can brave the crowds of last-minute Christmas shoppers.