Pick things you would actually buy full price, says Olivia Buxton Smith

Top tip: My tips can be deduced to a single sentiment: buy things you really want to wear, and not things that have only caught your eye on account of the neon “50 per cent off ” label attached to them. Sure, a sequin dress has its allure. As does a feather-trimmed jacket. And yes, these sorts of trophy buys will come in handy during party season. But from past experience, the reduced items that bring the most joy are those everyday bits that you can wear for all manner of occasions. Think chunky knitwear, flattering denim and practical – but stylish – boots.

What she’ll be buying:

Enter these khaki kick flares from M.i.h Jeans, and this palma violet knit courtesy of Scandi It brand, Ganni, keeping me cosy and comfortable, and easily reworked when mercury levels rise. What’s more, if my bank balance allowed it, I would purchase both items full price without hesitation. But as it happens, they’re on sale. Yippee. Mohair knit, £335 to £167.50, Ganni (selfridges.com, from Dec 26)

Cult jeans, £185 to £92.50 (mih-jeans.com)