Post-Holiday Shopping Spree, Anyone?

Posted in Lifestyle by Jen

Holidays are over and what’s on our minds? Work, school, our daily obligations, and so the mini vacation is coming to an end… what to do now? Make the most of it! I’m sure at this point shopping is the LAST thing on our minds (especially after that Christmas shopping, right?), but if you want some awesome discounts and incredible bargains this is the perfect chance to grab ‘em. I’m sure everyone knows about the seasonal discounts but not everyone knows about the post-Christmas sales. Usually, 90 percent of the seasonal discounts only pertains to clothing, however after the holidays you usually get a discount on mostly anything. That’s right, ANYTHING. That’s why post-Christmas sales are so incredible! Here’s a list of the top general categories that have huge sales after holidays.

Clothing
This is a given, everyone knows about the end of the year sales. A majority thinks that it’s only winter apparel that goes on sale, and it’s true… to a certain extent. Any winter apparel, coats, jackets, sweaters, boots, hats, gloves, anything that has to do with the brutal cold weather that you can name… they will become dirt cheap. Go nuts, you can even stock up for next winter if you want to. BUT, have you ever heard of the saying “out with the old, in with the new”? Well that definitely applies here; it’s a new year, meaning new styles, new lines, and new colors. Therefore it is NOT just the winter apparel. So you’re probably thinking “ugh only the ugly clothes that nobody wanted is going to be on sale”, you’re wrong! Fashion changes constantly. Just because they’re on clearance, doesn’t mean they’re horrendous. Stores are putting clothing on clearance just because the color isn’t that popular anymore! Out with the old, in with the new; animal prints, the color red, feathered accessories, anything that was “in” and “fab” a few months ago, are now on clearance. So if you’re not all about keeping up with the latest trends and just want to do you, then go free my friend. Grab the cute, fashionable items that aren’t good enough for the fashion world anymore.

Jewelry
I know, not something people generally buy often, but hey, you never know when someone’s birthday is coming up or a special occasion. For those with sensitive skin or allergens that can’t really wear fashion jewelry, than this is your chance to buy something that will last you. Jewelry is a part of fashion just like any other accessory, such as a hand bag. Out with the old, in with the new! (Fair warning: That’s not the last time you’ve seen that phrase in this article.)

Cars
Okay, so you might be thinking that I’m out of my mind, but I’m not! I’ve looked a lot into this before I began write this post. Everyone has probably seen all the commercials about car deals and the big blow out sales right? Well they’re not kidding! Dealerships are trying to clear the showroom and floor for newer models, so they’re trying to get rid of all the 2011 models. Amazing right? When you think from that perspective it makes a lot more sense. Out with the old, in with the new! (I warned you.)

Toys
Something that people tend to overlook, but for those of you who have to buy gifts for children (or for those who are children at heart) this is the time to get what they always wanted and surprise them or reward them (blackmail for some obedience… I like to think of it as an exchange…). Many toys that were gifted are sometimes returned, and that’s when you should strike! Stock up, you never know if it might come in handy (Nerf gun war anyone?).

Electronics
Gift receipts are asked for and given to for a reason; it’s a pre-caution, a brilliant one, every person considers. The people who think “just in case it doesn’t work or they don’t like it” and the people who actually return the item are the ones you should thank. GPS systems, TV sets, laptops, computer accessories, game consoles, games, etc. Everything that could be gifted could be returned. Returned “open boxed” electronics are what you should look for because they are usually sold for a fraction of the original price, you can’t beat that. Who wants a new gadget? I know I do.

Fitness equipment
You’re probably sitting there, looking at the screen thinking “really…?” Yes, really. When you ask someone you know “what are your New Year’s resolutions?” Most of the time “getting fit” and “losing weight” will be on that list somewhere. Thus, retailers try to attract shoppers with sales and discounted prices. Don’t buy it if you’re not going to use it though. I’m sure a coat rack is useful and we could all use one, but a treadmill takes up a little too much space don’t you think?

Christmas merchandise
Last but not least, holiday merchandise. Come on, who didn’t think of this one? Christmas is over! Retailers always overstock on decorations, ornaments, gift wrap, etc. and they never sell it all. Never. So the leftover has to go! What better way to get rid of all the holiday items than by pushing it all out with prices up to 70 percent off? If you’ve been using the same tinsel, ornaments and decorations for the last 10 years and feel that you finally need an upgrade, there’s no time like right now.

Places you can find these great deals:

  • Victoria’s Secret (Semi-Annual Sale! Or SAS)
  • J. Crew
  • Ulta
  • Macy’s
  • Kohl’s
  • Bloomingdale’s
  • Gap
  • Old Navy
  • Zale’s
  • Sephora
  • Target
  • Best Buy
  • Staples

So for those of you who wanted to splurge but had to restrain yourself and Christmas shop for others first, this is your chance! Holidays are over but there’s still time to get a little something for you! Get your list ready, grab your wallet and keys, get out there and steal some great buys!