We’ve had so much adjusting to do lately, but one thing has stayed the same, our love of fashion! That is something that cannot be taken away from us.

Shopping smart in Autumn is so important, find pieces that you adore and you could have them for years. We want to wear our clothes, love them and get value out of them. Goodness know we have all made mistakes in the past, buying clothes on a whim that still sit in our wardrobes with the sales tag on!

So, let’s put those old habits behind us, start afresh and get your savvy shopper cape on!

Step 1: Review what’s in your wardrobe before you venture out. Take a look at what you need and more specifically, what you don’t need. If you only have skinny jeans in your wardrobe, is it time for a bootleg? There are some fabulous pairs in Diesel, or some wet look jeans? Look no further than Penney’s.

Step 2: Decide what you are looking for and make a needs list. This can be flexible as we won’t always find everything at the one time.

Step 3: Only buy things that fit perfectly, unless you know they can be altered.

Step 4: Think in 3’s. That means, think of 3 things it will go with at home, a scarf, a belt, jeans, we are aiming for that capsule wardrobe.

Step 5: Give yourself plenty of time. Shopping when you are in a hurry is a bad idea, rushing only leads to hasty purchases and stress. Take breaks while you shop! There are loads of places at Marshes to relax and refuel, Starbucks is one of my favourites, especially now that their Autumn menu is here.

Step 6: Accessories change up an outfit instantly, Gerard, Carraig Donn and Penney’s stock tonnes that have the power to completely change any look. Think hairbands, collars, belts, earrings, necklaces and scarves. I love playing with accessories, they really do add your own twist to a look.

Step 7: As we are heading into A/W nothing changes a look quite like an overcoat. There’s a huge selection in Marshes, Penney’s, New Look, Carraig Donn and Gerard all have so much to choose from and I promise they are also budget friendly, you’ll be over the moon!

Step 8: Think comfort in your purchases, we want to reach for these pieces over and over and find that mix and match in our wardrobes. There’s so much softness in the huge selection of knitwear in New Look, Gerard and Penney’s and I was completely spoilt with my Carraig Donn skirt and shirt, these pieces will be invaluable in my wardrobe.

If you are unsure of anything, remember that the staff at Marshes are extremely helpful. Trust their opinion, they know what they are doing!

Lastly, have fun!! I hope these tips help somewhat! Now go get that A/W wardrobe. Its right here waiting for you at Marshes.

Happy Shopping Everyone!

Caroline xx