Cold weather, hot deals

Now that our sugar highs from Valentine’s Day are over, what do we have to look forward to? Six more weeks of winter? No! This may a lack-luster, chilly time of year, but take a look in the stores — it’s hot!

Here’s a guide with items to look for and to avoid this time of year on the clearance racks. I don’t know about you, but I almost always go directly to the back of the store — that’s where all the hottest deals are.

Look for chunky sweaters. With all of the new spring merchandise coming in, thinner sweaters in lighter colors will be populating the racks towards the front of the store, while the darker, thicker sweaters will be pushed towards the back. You’ll still be able to get a couple months wear out of it, and if it’s not too trendy (stick with classic neutrals) you can always wear it next fall!

Scan for outdoor accessories. Most stores don’t want the outdoor accessories taking up space in their inventory, so they slash prices down to almost nothing. Hats, gloves, scarves, even tights are severely marked down this time of year, so grab some extra pairs and stock up for next year.

Boots, boots and more boots! This might be my favorite sale item. As the snow starts melting, shoe stores need to start making room on the shelves for the cork wedges, peep-toe heels and chic ballet flats. Boots in all shapes and sizes will be available to you, if you can wait until after peak boot season, aka now!

One thing you shouldn’t be looking for this time of year (if you don’t have to) would be a swimming suit. It might be tempting to start looking forward to spring in your suit, but even waiting until after the typical spring break time, you’ll save tons of money, and if you’re like me, tons of disappointment when looking at your pale post-winter body in the fluorescent lighting.

Other items that aren’t exactly a steal this time of year include shorts, breezy, flowing skirts or lightweight tops with tons of color pops. Look for those to start discounting around May. It might be hard to bypass all the bright, bold colors at the front of the store and in the windows, but this time of year, try looking past the clever ensembles and into the deals hiding in the back!