Clever shoppers know all the tricks

With the Bay's biggest designer outlet sale - the indulge Outlet Sale - around the corner, there is plenty to be excited about. But experienced salesters know that the best bargains land with those who do their research beforehand.

Personal stylist and director of The Style Company, Megan Hewett, advises sorting and decluttering your wardrobes before hitting the sale. "This way you'll have a realistic idea of any gaps that need filling."

Next step, says Megan, is to make a list. "And don't stray from it unless you love the item and you can quickly visualise at least three other items in your wardrobe that would work with it."

The secret to scoring a great bargain is knowing if it suits you, regardless of price. "Know and understand your body shape, style personality and colour palette. This way you'll be able to home in on styles, fabrics and colours that suit you."

With 20 national and local designer labels at the sale, the ASB Stadium Lounge is gearing up to welcome hundreds of keen Bay bargain hunters when the doors open, says events manager Dayna Comeskey. "While some stalls have Eftpos make sure you bring cash-you don't want to miss out on cash only bargains. Be prepared to try things on outside a changing room as not all stalls have them or you might not want to waste time waiting in line.

"When I go shopping, it always gets hot, what with changing and hunting. I would advise dressing in something simple that you can easily take off. And dress light-leave scarves and coats at home. You will likely be too hot wearing them and you want your hands free to rummage."

Dayna says it is best to leave big bags at home. "There will not be facilities to leave a bag, so you don't want to have to lug around a big handbag. If you do end up buying something, the stores will give you a plastic or carry bag."

We asked a selection of the stores what their top sale tips are:

Rebecca Anderson, shoe designer at Chaos and Harmony

Get in early before all the good stuff goes. Be prepared. Have items/styles in mind before shopping so you don't come home saying, "Why did I buy this?" Repeat styles. If you have something already you know suits you, get it again or in another colour.

What to look for - Rebecca's picks:
• A fresh sandal to head into summer with
• An all-rounder that can be worn in any season
• A good, old classic boot that will last for seasons

Rodelle Payne, Sisters&Co

If you see something that catches your eye, grab it and keep it close. There's nothing worse than loving something and hesitating. Someone else will feel the same and grab your item. Keep your eyes peeled for some bold colours and prints. They will work perfectly with your summer wardrobe.

Last, but not least, the price. If something has been marked down heftily snap it up.

What to look for - Rodelle's picks:
Women should be looking out for the essentials:
• A little black dress
• Bold accessories
• Key items that you can mix and match with everything in your wardrobe.
• Prints are going to run wild this summer ? paired with statement necklaces and lovely flats, you have the perfect outfit

Anna Mountford, Wallis

Look for pieces that can be styled for summer and winter.

Sort out your wardrobe before you head out to see what pieces you actually need. And don't muck around. If you see something you like, in your size, grab it before someone else does.

What to look for - Anna's tips:
• The shirt: a great classic piece that can be styled up summer or winter
• Black and white: you can't beat this classic combo and it certainly will not date
• The pencil skirt: this shape is a true classic and a great piece in summer or winter

Meghan Maher, director of Repertoire

Purchase clothing that you love, treasure and feel gorgeous in.

Always keep this in mind when shopping at a sale and be very careful not to be swayed by price.

Most important is remembering that it is not a bargain if it sits in your wardrobe for years having never been worn.

Consider whether you would buy this sale item/s at full price.

If not, I would recommend doing the walk away test.

Be careful not to leave your decision making for too long as items can move very quickly in a good sale.

Take along someone you trust and who will give you a truthful opinion.

When you want to purchase an item consider the whole outfit. Do you have something at home to wear it with? Buy the right size and don't be tempted to buy good bargains in smaller sizes.

They will sit in your wardrobe and remind you of the weight you haven't lost. Also, if you are tempted to buy a larger size you need to consider the cost of having it altered.

Try on everything. Don't just buy it because it looks great on a hanger and is a good price.

The indulge Outlet Sale is on for one-day only, Saturday, September 27, from 10am to 5pm, $5 entry, door sales only at ASB Stadium Lounge.