Fashion accessories go on sale December 26, with the best selection from December 26-28, according to ConsumerAffairs in its after-Christmas sales playbook. That source notes deeper clearance follows in early January as stores clear holiday inventory.
Here, accessories means extras that complete cold-weather outfits and fashion looks, including winter pieces and fine jewelry. Prices fall as selection shrinks, so timing is a trade-off. Early shoppers get sizes and choice, while late shoppers get lower prices.
Table of Contents
- Why shop December 26-28?
- When do the deepest cuts appear?
- What about brand sales and jewelry?
- How should you time it on a budget?
Why shop December 26-28?
DealNews tracking reported through LA-Story found about one-third of 2018 post-holiday deals were clothing and accessories. Aggressive clearance included J.Crew Factory, Nordstrom Rack, 6pm and Dick's Sporting Goods.
Demand is heavy that first week. National Retail Federation data cited by Home Textiles Today found 51% of shoppers use sales and gift cards December 26 to January 1.
When do the deepest cuts appear?
Winter apparel discounts run about 50% just after Christmas, matching Black Friday levels, according to DealNews reporting via Legal News in its discount breakdown. The same source says discounts deepen to about 70% after January 1 as retailers make room for spring goods. DontPayFull explains clearance often drops in stages from about 30% to 60% or more.
Shopping mid-January can balance a lower price against disappearing sizes. Bob Vila's expert roundup calls the end of January into February the peak window for winter clothing, shoes and accessories sales. Bob Vila's experts say retailers must clear cold-weather stock before spring arrivals (best New Year sale guide).
What about brand sales and jewelry?
Not every post-Christmas fashion sale is pure clearance. DealNews reporting via LA-Story notes Victoria's Secret, Tory Burch, Armani Exchange and Michael Kors schedule semi-annual sales in this window.
Fine jewelry follows a later cycle. Borsheims advises waiting until after Valentine's Day, with February-March markdowns and quieter stores offering more inventory choice after the rush. Jeweler Andrea Browne gave similar timing advice in an interview with Steve Pomeranz.
How should you time it on a budget?
Buy for fit and gifts in the first week, then buy for price later. National Retail Federation data suggest early January favors selection and late January favors price.
The NRF report cited by Home Textiles Today warns late bargains may carry final-sale terms. Check return rules before paying, especially on late-January bargains.
- Shop December 26-28 for sizes and holiday gift-card stock.
- Check again in mid-January for staged markdowns before sizes vanish.
- Wait until late January into February for winter accessories if color and size are flexible.
