Every cloud, as they say...

The upside of the current economic downturn is undoubtedly the sales. For those who do have a little money to splash, there are bargains galore, both designer and High Street.

Many sales have already started and some have been running for some time, with ever increasing discounts, so that clever shoppers can pick up clothes and accessories for a fraction of their original price.

The autumn/winter stock will be entering High Street stores such as Dorothy Perkins, Top Shop, Wallis and Miss Selfridge at the end of this month, so keep price checking until then.

Meanwhile, some of the big sales have yet to start. As I write, M&S will only say that its sale is starting "mid July" – keep your eyes peeled. And the Next sale, which has become something of an institution in recent years, thanks to massive knockdowns, begins this Saturday – expect queues and please try not to get shirty with your fellow shoppers. Elbows in, ladies.

Remember that there is no point in buying something, no matter how cheap, if you will never wear it – it's a waste of money and wardrobe space. So look out for classics – black, brown and navy will always be wearable, for example, as will single-breasted, plain fitted jackets and knee-length skirts, plain knitwear and white shirts.

And do bear in mind that it is possible now to pick up a Cavalli or a Dolce & Gabanna item for a bargain price, so if you fancy an investment, or just a spot of indulgence, go for it.


BARGAIN HUNTERS' HIGHLIGHTS

Next begins its sale on Saturday, July 19 – up to 50 per cent discounts.

Marks and Spencer says its sales begin mid July and that there will be a 30 per cent discount across all lines.

Harvey Nichols is in sale now until July 27. Here are examples of some fab designer bargains:

Dolce & Gabbana bronze bikini, was £235, now £94; Roberto Cavalli drape dress, was £1,580, now £630; Prada coral cashmere cardigan, was £330, now £130; Paul Smith Black black shift dress, was £190, now £95; Alexander McQueen silk drape cami top, was £615, now £307.50; 3.1 Phillip Lim blue shift dress, was £305, now £122; Balenciaga halter mini dress, was £840, now £336; Jonathan Kelsey pink metallic sandals, was £325, now £130; Balenciaga black court shoe, was £285, now £114; Miu Miu flower pump, was £220, now £110; Jimmy Choo black patent sandal, was £475, now £237; Dolce & Gabbana brown platform sandal, was £325, now £130.