Ask Angie (and everyone): How early in the season do you shop?

nancylee

I'm itching to pull the trigger on spring/summer clothes, but it's still very early and I'm wondering if I should hold out for more selection. I know the stores release new collections for each season in phases, but I'm not sure of the timing.

Part of me wants to jump on everything I see right now. It seems some items are already starting to sell out (especially in orange...the season's color) and I don't want to miss out. Still....I can't help but think I might find something better if I wait.

What is your shopping strategy for the new season? Do certain items (accessories, for example) tend to sell out early? Are there some items it's better to wait on?

14 years ago

Shopping

11 replies

Latest reply was from Suz

Mochi

Veteran

Brilliant question. Though I am sure everyone's strategies will be all over the place on this one. Thanks for asking!

14 years ago

Abie

Veteran

I'm already working on summer. Mostly because I'm in Texas I have already worn some short sleeves and it will be hot here before everything is out. I will also be able to wear summer things until oct, at least. So I have a long season to be ready for.

It might be different next year but right now I'm still building my wardrobe.

I'm having a couple of dresses made. I expect the person making them will be backed up come summer time and I want them early. I've also been able to get some great things on sale left from last summer season.

I plan to sew some pieces so I'm picking out fabrics for that.

I also want to pick up a couple of jackets and alter them into short sleeve or vests, so I'm looking at those now.

I'm sure I will pick up up a couple of current in season things when they come out, but its been fun to work on summer ahead of time and I feel good knowing that I will be prepared.

14 years ago

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

Since my predominant season is summer, I start buying summer pieces as soon as I see them. BUT they have to be perfect. I will never regret buying a woven summer dress that is flattering and comfortable, or a flat pair of comfortable strappy sandals. Since I maintain a small wardrobe and get 6 months of wear from summer items, they wear out more quickly than my other pieces.

14 years ago

machanteuse (Lori)

Active Member

I am in MA so winter is far from over. I haven't purposely sought out anything for spring or summer yet, although I've picked up a few things that may cross over. Generally I don't shop far ahead unless I find something I love for a price I can live with - unless it's a special occasion. This year we're taking a trip to Mississippi and New Orleans in April so I'm sure I will have gotten some spring and summer things by then.

14 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

You should never stop shopping for your dominant season!

I am always shopping in the retail season for that season. (I'm so excited at the start of the season and am bored at sale time). I start shopping for Autumn at the NAS in July. When it comes to Spring and Summer, I start shopping in Feb for sure - but hold back if the items aren't warm handle because it can be cold until June around here!

Speaking as an ex-fashion buyer, the best stuff is always in the beginning and the middle of the season. It's planned that way for reasons that I shan't go into now. And if you wear a small size, your size runs out fast - another deliberate retail strategy.

Ooops. Have I answered your question, Nancy?

14 years ago

Meredith1953

Veteran

In the past I have usually waited till Spring to buy for Spring. Now that I am part of this fashion family I am actually getting excited to see trends early, so I think I will start at least checking the colors and styles and doing a preliminary scout if not actual buying. Here in Boise, ID we have all four seasons!

14 years ago

(website)

Veteran

I am actively seeking a spring/summer day dress this very week.
I feel I have fall/winter pretty much covered for the year so I am mentally looking ahead to the next season. But I'm sure my warm weather here is influencing that some, as well. I was literally in my bikini on the patio yesterday in 84 degrees. If I were surrounded by snow maybe my head wouldn't be into warm weather mindset just yet?

14 years ago

nancylee

Veteran

Thanks for your perspectives, everyone. It is helpful to hear your strategies.

Angie, yes. You did answer my questions. I always wondered if it was better to jump at the beginning of the season or wait. Knowing that the best merchandise comes out early and toward the middle of the season makes me feel more confident about buying now. Like you, my enthusiasm is greatest a little before the season actually starts, and I'm completely bored once the sales begin.

One more question: If February is the beginning of the spring season, when is the middle?

14 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Feb/ March is the beginning. April/May is middle.

14 years ago

modgrl

(website)

Veteran

My size is gone ASAP. I have to BBQ (buy buy quick) Like Right Now if I think something might for for me in summer. I wear a 2P/4P, 5.5W shoes, it is very slim pickings in those sizes and NOTHING at all left at the end of the season. End of season sales are a total disaster for me. I am always tempted to make do with an almost just right item that is a good price. No More! BBQ ASAP!

14 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Huh. My size in one of the tops Angie linked to this morning is already gone online. I might be able to get it in the store if I am lucky.

Paying full price is a novelty for me...I always used to wait for sales and/or buy discount. But this year I am going to buy early and middle season. YAY!

14 years ago

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