Make a wish list of exactly what you'd like to find.

Don't be afraid to ignore it altogether and scoop a bargain - that's what the sales are for.

Don't wear that top that has 40 hooks and eyes up the back. And while you're at it, leave the lace-up knee boots at home - you'll be in and out of your clothes all day.

Go into shops you could never normally afford - expensive shops often offer much better reductions.

If it's raining, bring a hat or a mac rather than an umbrella, which is a nightmare in crowded streets.

Have a sturdy breakfast.

Don't buy anything that's the wrong size or length on the grounds that you will lose weight or alter it; you won't.

Don't let sales fever go to your head - if you have a sneaking suspicion that you'll never wear that half-price shocking pink chinchilla hat, the odds are pretty good you'll never wear it.

No bargain is worth going into debt over.

Wear comfortable shoes. Or spike heels to give you an edge on the opposition.