Sales On and I’m Shopping
If you weren’t aware of just how tough the fashion business has been lately, the retail strategy since early October should have been a tip off. Major retailers—from Net-A-Porter to J Crew—have been offering sale after sale, and it signals one thing: inventory buildup. With consumers pulling back on their spending, retailers need to shed product, especially with Resort and Spring 2026 collections starting to ship.
Which is why if you’re in need of a wardrobe refresh, it may be a perfect time to buy. Because even though we’ve seen price hikes across nearly every brand this fall, many fashion insiders expect prices to go up again next year, making this a smart time to shop.
However, with so much on sale, it can be completely overwhelming trying to decide where to put your hard-earned cash. To help guide your shopping strategy, here are three things I’m focused on investing in this season:
1. A Coat (or Two!)
I already picked up one coat this season—a gorgeous Joseph wrap coat in wool ottoman that I purchased from The Outnet—but I’m on the hunt for a second one. This time, I’m looking for either a long puffer or a functional raincoat, and I’m emphasizing the functional part because many beautiful designer trench coats are not even water repellent. My top option right now is this Mackage trench coat for its chic, but modern styling and functional features.
2. Knee-High Leather Boots
If money were no object, I would absolutely splurge on these Glove High Boots 80 by Lemaire (Side note: Lemaire has to be one of the smartest brands out there right now because they aren’t fighting with everyone else for sale dollars). But at $2,390 they are a bit over my budget, plus my still healing sprained ankle probably can’t handle the heel height. That’s why I am currently eyeing either Aeyde’s Klea Boots or Staud’s Wally Boots.
3. A Statement Skirt
With pants and dresses dominating the collections these last few seasons, the skirt section of my winter wardrobe has been looking sadly neglected. I really notice this whenever I want to wear a skirt and realize I have no exciting options. I'm aiming to fill that gap with something special. My current top contenders are a structured Rohe midi skirt or an A-line, knee-length skirt by Joseph.
A final tip for smarter shopping: If you’re taking advantage of these deep discounts, remember to follow the golden rule of one in, two out (my personal rule is to clear out two clothing or accessory items for every single piece I purchase). Maintaining a lean closet full of pieces you will actually wear is the best way to build a wardrobe that will carry you forward for years to come.
AI-generated image courtesy of Shutterstock.
