Going shopping in the sales can be a nightmare. We've all been to the shops at what seems like their busiest times, only to cringe at the long queues, the sticky atmosphere, the unsociable crowds but when you find what you were looking for, it suddenly all becomes worth it.

When you hit the sales, preparation is key to minimise stress. You have to dress comfortably and practically so you can rummage around for the best bargains and stay calm when dealing with the huge crowds.

"If you think cleverly about what you really need and want, and do your research, the sales are the perfect opportunity to increase and update your wardrobe," says Elle's fashion features assistant, Kate Blythe.

Stylist Ceril Campbell agrees: "Look at the new winter stock to get hints about what to buy and pick up on certain elements that will still be fashionable later on. For example, embellishment and embroidery never go out of fashion, so it's worth picking up those pretty pieces."

FEAST YOUR EYES ON...
Get ahead of the fashion pack, and get a winter wardrobe for less.

"It's too late to buy into a summer trend now. Take a look at what the designers are doing for autumn/winter and pick out key elements that are already on clothes rails now," says Ceril.

Military style jackets and Russian-inspired fashion are going to be big, so focus on details such as brass buttons, embroidery and embellishment to get the look. The mode will also shift from floaty and girlie to sexy and tailored, with strong curvy screen siren shapes.

And you may be lucky enough to find some cropped 50s style jackets and city shorts (which can be worn with knee-high boots), which were popular earlier this year.

"Look for classic pieces that will take you through to autumn/winter, such as tailored pieces and sombre colours, which are trans-seasonal and don't really date," says Kate.

Colours such as plum, purple, navy and teal continue to be in for the winter, along with skinny leg jeans, slim-cut trousers, slouchy metallic handbags and big wide belts.

TRY TO AVOID...
It's all too easy to be tempted into buying something just because it's a bargain at £5, but if you never wear it, it won't be worth it.

"Skim over the really obvious trend-led pieces," explains Kate. "You're not going to be sure if you can wear those spring and summer trends again, as they may be dated by the following year."

So if you're thinking of picking up that hot pink floral print dress or that white tiered skirt, you may want to think again, unless you can maximise its wear before the summer ends.

"Winter sees the return of ladylike tailoring tailored skirts with a neater and stronger silhouette, and pencil skirts," Kate says. "All the frou-frou that we saw in the gypsy trend is out and overdone."

Ceril adds: "Don't bother with summer wear unless you're planning a holiday to a hot destination. You may think you're getting a bargain, but when next summer comes around, you'll want to buy new clothes."

INVEST IN...
Use the sales as a chance to stock up on your high-quality wardrobe staples.

"Every wardrobe should have a classic pair of well-cut linen trousers, a classic white shirt and a tailored jacket to suit your body shape that makes you look your very best," says Ceril.

Evening dresses and other formal wear may also be worth checking out, as there are some good finds around.

Kaftans may have seemed like a 2005 summer trend, but they're great beachwear.

And why not take the opportunity to buy that designer label that you've been lusting for?"