Super Summer Savings

Grab your comfy shoes, it's time to exercise the plastic and give the savings a bit of a battering. The summer sales are now in full swing, and if you shop wisely you're guaranteed the odd bargain or two.

All five department stores in Birmingham city centre are currently in full sales mode, with thousands of cut-price items on offer. Selfridges and Debenhams at Bullring, and Harvey Nichols at the Mailbox were first out of the starting blocks, with Beatties and House of Fraser following hot on their heels.

It's not just the big boys that are tempting the shoppers, however, as hundreds of smaller shops, both well-known and independent retailers, are also slashing prices.

The city is currently enjoying a huge renaissance when it comes to shopping, after many years of living in the shadow of the likes of Nottingham, Manchester and Leeds. After a recent poll recognised it as being the third best retail destination in the UK-after London and Glasgow - it has seen the number of locals and visitors hitting the shops soar.

So expect the crowds and instead of just following the herd, plan your shopping trips and think wisely about how you're going to spend that hardearned cash.

First things first, think about what time of the day you're going to make your expedition. There's no point heading out at lunchtime on a Saturday and then getting cross when you can't find a parking space or anywhere free for lunch. The Bullring, for example, is open until 8pm six nights a week, so visit during the quiet hours.

Make sure you're dressed for it. Comfortable shoes and clothes are a musthave, especially if you're going to spend much of your day in and out of the changing rooms. Go for a pair of flip flops and easy-to-wear linen trousers rather than jeans, which will get you all hot and bothered and you may end up making all the wrong decisions.

Take a bottle of water with you to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day and stop for much-needed breaks. Take time to recharge the batteries and really think about whether you'll ever wear those lurid green stilettos or whether that Pucci print backless number will see the light of day.

If you want to take this whole bargain lark seriously, invest in a shopping trolley - very ironic and very stylish. House of Fraser has a gorgeous range by Ollie and Nic that features a pink gerbera printed trolley for pounds 38 - great for barging your way through the crowds.

However long the waiting line is for the fitting rooms, always make an effort to try things on. That way you won't make too many mistakes and you'll be spared the hell that is the returns queue.

You should resist the temptation to buy something because it's cheap. We've all done it ... and we've all regretted it. There's enough tat in our wardrobes without adding to it. Think about whether, if you had the money, you would pay full price for an item. If you would, buy it. If you wouldn't, then move on.

Also, look out for clothes and shoes that will still be in fashion for at least another season or two. Go for tweed, trench coats, pink and denim - at least that way you know you can still wear many of your buys this time next year.

Think like a professional - clever shoppers use the sales as a time for investment buying. Head to the Mailbox for the best in designer chic and enjoy massive savings on top label clothes and accessories. Check out DKNY, Harvey Nichols, Armani and the other high-end names for great savings on clothes. If you can't afford to buy a complete outfit, then use the time as a chance to splash out on a new bag, sunglasses or jewellery that can be teamed with high street bargains.