WHILE some people love sale shopping and can’t wait to feel the thrill of snapping up a bargain, others steer well clear of the discount rails for fear of wasting time or money on things they just don’t need.

ANGELA POPLETT, intu Lakeside’s Personal Stylist, is here to offer some tips and tricks for savvy sale shopping.

“Sales are a great opportunity to pick up a coveted item or something that’s usually outside of your price range. Don’t let the loaded rails of miscellaneous items put you off, sales are definitely worth that little bit of extra effort – you just need to know what you’re looking for.

“Obviously if you’ve got a tight budget you’ll be able to buy much more in the sale. Great fashion stores like Warehouse, Oasis, Miss Selfridge and Office at intu Lakeside have between 50 and 70% off some of their items so you’ll be able to buy quality for must less and they’ll last you longer. It’s all about investing in cost per wear!

“Sales are also the perfect excuse to try something new. Have a browse through a fashion magazine or see how store mannequins are dressed for inspiration, then browse the sale rails in Forever 21 and Topshop and put your own look together for less.

"Even if you decide the new style’s not for you, you won’t have wasted much money and you’ll have given it a go.

“You can also make the most of sale discounts to complete outfits you already have but never really wear.

"If there’s a skirt in your wardrobe that’s missing the perfect pair of shoes or a dress that’s missing just the right shade of clutch bag, complete the look for less with a sale bargain. Intu Lakeside’s H&M and Aldo are great places to start.

“If you’ve got a long list of presents to buy for birthdays, Christmas, weddings and more, don’t feel guilty about thinking ahead and picking up bits in the sale.

"The value comes from the thought not the cost so if you see something that you know they’ll love, snap it up! The owner of Silverleaf on Brompton Walk hand picks each piece of jewellery they sell so have a look at their sale and get the boutique feel without the boutique price tag.

"HMV is another great place for gifts; who doesn’t love a CD or DVD that’s bought because it means something to you both?

“Or, if you’re still not sure you’re ready to tackle the sales on your own, why not book an accompanied sale shopping session? I love rummaging around and finding bargains for my clients – and an accompanied 2-hour shopping spree is absolutely free!”

For more information about intu Lakeside’s Personal Stylist or to book an appointment, call 01708 869933 or visit www.intulakeside.co.uk.