With the January sales in full swing, it’s very easy to find yourself tempted to shop ‘til you drop with high street stores touting bargains galore. Well, here at HelpMyStyle.ie we like to give you the inside track on getting the most from the sales so you don’t end up with a wardrobe full of bargaintastic purchases that you never wear.

1. Keep an eye out for trends that will take you into Spring/Summer 2010.

2. Crop tops and one-shoulder styles are going to big next season so snap these up in bright shades and well cut styles to get a head start on the fashion posse.

3. Our obsession with all things Chanel inspired isn’t over yet. Look out for navy, red and beige nautical inspired designs rather than the black and white monochrome we overindulged in this winter.

4. Staple pieces in neutral shades like cream and beige will serve you well next season so keep a sharp eye out for these on the reduced rails.

5. If it doesn’t fit, don’t buy it! The cost of having a piece altered will defeat the joys of a bargain and we all know that the longer it lies in your wardrobe the less likely you are to wear it.

6. The January sales are a great time to fill any gaps in your wardrobe – cheaply and cheerfully! Have a rummage through your wardrobe and pull out your favourite items that you’re just not wearing because you’ve nothing to match. Use the sales to pick up pieces that will complete the look and give your current wardrobe a whole new lease of life.

7. If you’re usually put off by the hefty price tags in boutiques, January is a great time to have a peek in these stores as you can pick up really good quality coats and dresses at heavily reduced prices.

8. Finally, don’t forget vintage stores – vintage never goes out of fashion! Wild Child in Georges Street Arcade is offering a super 3 for 2 promotion on all purchases so it’s definitely worth a snoop for a good value one-off vintage find.

By Avril Collins.