What a bargain! Your guide to the early winter sales

Susannah Guthrie
Jun 03, 2014, updated Jun 04, 2014

It feels like cold weather has only just hit Australian capital cities, but Aussie retailers are throwing winter duds at customers like it’s 40 degrees outside.

With pop-up sales, VIP events, clearance stock and discount deals aplenty, you’re now able to nab yourself a winter wear before the chill hits.

Why?

Warmer winter weather in May has lessened the demand for heavy-duty items. Additionally, post-budget consumer confidence has fallen 1.1 per cent (according to an ANZ-Roy Morgan survey) leaving stores desperate to reinvigorate their sales.

“Consumers are being quite savvy at the moment,” says Tom Godfrey from Choice.

“We’re seeing more stock take sales which retailers are hoping will run for a shorter period of time.”

Myer today announced they would be delaying their half-yearly sales an extra two weeks in favour of one-day stocktake sales to get customers through the doors.

So what does this mean for the average shopper? More bang for your buck if you play your cards right.

Stock take tips

Buy classic pieces

“Look for things that will last you through to the next season,” Mr Godfrey says, “such as good quality knitwear or coats.”

Head to major retailers

Larger stores like David Jones or Myer often allow you to return sale items. As discount periods can lead to packed stores, this decreases the pressure of making the right choice on the spot and gives you room to change your mind.

Have a cooling-off period

“It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of the sale,” Mr Godfrey says. Instead, take your purchases home, try them on in natural light and give yourself 24 hours before you cut the tags off.

Ask for discounts when appropriate

If a concession store in a major retailer doesn’t have the size you’re looking for, find the local or boutique equivalent and see if they will match the price. While boutiques may not be on sale at the same time, they are often happy to match department store prices.

Hold out

According to Mr Godfrey, it’s reasonable for consumers to assume their favourite brand will go on sale at some point. After all, retailers have to make room for summer stock, meaning most mid-year sales kick off in June.

To ensure you don’t miss out, check stock levels online and ask in store how many items are left to get an idea of how long you can hold off.