Pastels at Jonathan Saunders

Now that Christmas seems like a distant memory, and the New Year celebrations are behind us, comes my other favourite time of year has arrived; the January sales.

This is the time for elbowing through crowds of shoppers, in a bid to secure the best bargains to fill our wardrobes for the year ahead. Though while you are in the midst of the shopping madness, it is important to keep in mind that not every purchase you make will be a bargain. How often do we buy things during the sales, which will never leave our wardrobes? Have you been rummaging through drawers recently to find items that still have their labels attached?

Neon at Roksanda Ilincic

There are some key pieces to look out for in the sales this year, which are sure to become your future favourites, featuring in outfits time and time again in the months to come. Here is a quick guide on what to buy, and what to steer clear of during the sales this month.

Switch 1940s for 1950s.
Though Miuccia Prada’s tea dresses at Miu Miu were a big hit on the catwalks and the high street this winter, spring/summer sees her revive the 1950s, and where she goes, it seems the rest of us follow. So if you spot lady like full skirts, fitted cardigans or jumpers on the rails, lift them.

1950s at Prada

Swap jewel tones for pretty pastels
In line with the 50s trend will be girly colours such as pistachio, lilac or lemon, replacing the heavier tones of emerald, citrine and topaz which dominated winter clothing.

Florals
Floral is one print that seems to never go out of style. Designers such as Raf Simmons, Celine and Peter Pilotto featured florals heavily in their spring/summer collections, proving their enduring popularity.

Swap cocoon coats for boxy jackets
It is time to emerge, like a butterfly, from a winter of cocoon coats and enjoy the clean lines of boxy jackets, such as those seen on the runway at Balenciaga.

Peter Pan Collars at Louis Vuitton

Collars
Peter Pan collars, inspired by Louis Vuitton, can give even the most simple top a ‘wow’ factor. The fashion house is set to continue the trend, updating it for spring/summer with a pretty Broderie Anglaise versions (such as that seen above).

Short Suits
Short suits provided a playful alternative to workwear during autumn/winter. This trend will continue in spring/summer, but this time in lighter shades.

1920s at Ralph Lauren

Swap 1970s for 1920s.

1970s inspired looks have been incredibly popular for many seasons, but it seems that fashion is now embracing all things 1920s. With The Great Gatsby remake on the way, take inspiration from Ralph Lauren and Gucci and purchase anything beaded, feathered, fringed and fabulous you spy in the sales.

Swap claret for neon
The only claret that you should be indulging in this year should be poured from a bottle. so write off the wine tones and instead embrace fabulous flouros, such as those of Roksanda Ilincic.

all photos from style.com