A top stylist gives Annemarie Quill her hot tips for shopping the indulge Outlet Sale.
With the Bay's biggest designer outlet sale - the indulge Outlet Sale - around the corner, there is plenty to be excited about. The outlet sale has teamed up this year with Aspire Health and Sports. Being fit to shop a sale helps - but experienced salesters know that the best bargains are found by those who do their research beforehand.
With that in mind, indulge asked top New Zealand stylist Angela Stone - who regularly runs style sessions at the Women's Lifestyle Expos throughout the country - for her advice for shopping the outlet sale.
1 Before shopping the sale next month, it is a good idea to give your wardrobe a clean-out, what is the best way to do this?
Start by going through your spring and summer clothes to make room for the new seasonal items you are going to buy. Hold on to floral prints and bright items, as these are perfect for the coming months! I would get rid of any winter pieces that you know you aren't likely to wear again - often you will find great discounted winter stock at the sale, so make some space for good basic sweaters which you can wear throughout the year. Navy, cream and grey are a safe choice, and a jade or forest green makes a nice coloured option.
2 What items should you definitely get rid of i.e. what has been in fashion this year but not set to continue?
Keeping up to date with fashionable colours is a must - this spring we are talking bold, bright tones. Think yellow, orange, blue, green and red. Get rid of your soft-coloured items, such as pale pinks and light grey.
Make sure you keep some good black basics, to pair with your brighter pieces.
3 If you sit down to make a list of your ideal items to 'score' in a sale, what would they be and why?
Trending at the moment are flares and fringes. Flares are very flattering and also comfortable. A printed pair in bright colours teamed with a simple blouse or crop top makes for an edgy, fashionable look. Fringes are a striking addition to any outfit, whether they come in clothing form, on a shirt or vest, or as an accessory. Leather or suede bags with fringe detailing look great! One trend which has carried over from last year is the crop top - pick one up at the sale. These are so versatile and highlight your waistline beautifully. They look best worn over high-waisted pants or skirts.
4 What things should you avoid in sales?
Steer clear of heavy winter clothing that you can't wear year-round. Buying a woollen coat may seem like a good idea at the time, but it's going to be sitting in your wardrobe for months and months before it gets worn and will likely be out of style by the time winter comes around! Be careful of trends which likewise may have disappeared come next spring - buy carefully: for example, buy one item rather than an entire outfit.
5 What five things should you always fight over with another shopper?
This is a tricky one! I would say the following are essential wardrobe items which style and colouring means they can be worn most of the year.
White pants - though white pants may seem like a potentially dangerous item to have, I cannot stress enough how great these are. White never goes out of style - paired with a floral top, these pants are perfect for summer nights, and worn with a heavy knit or jacket they make a great winter choice as well. Get them in skinny or straight-leg styles for a flattering look.
Jacket - every woman should have at least one great jacket. These fit the changing weather well, as they look amazing over dresses and with layers underneath. Tailored jackets are so sophisticated, giving your look a structured, ageless feel.
Loafers - a great shoe for daily wear throughout the year, the loafer is a classic that can easily be dressed up or down. Pair with socks and trousers in winter and go sockless in summer with a dress.
Below the knee high-waisted skirt - you can't beat a simple skirt which sits just below the knee. These are versatile and timelessly elegant. The high waist accentuates your curves and the longer length makes your legs look great!
Poncho - ponchos are amazingly comfortable, flattering and look striking. These are the perfect year-round outerwear piece. Layer up underneath in winter or toss over your trousers and blouse in summer.
THE DETAILS:
What: indulge Outlet Sale in association with Aspire Health and Sports.
When: Saturday, October 10.
Doors will open to the public at ASB Arena from 10am to 4pm
How: $5 entry. Pre-purchase tickets at bayofplentytimes.co.nz
Pre-purchase your ticket now