Our top tip for the Boxing Day sales is to search for the styles you’ve wanted in recent months, but also look ahead to the key new trends that will emerge next year. The spring/summer 2018 collections will dictate what lands on shop floors early in the new year, so get strategic about what elements most inspired you during the last fashion week. You’re far more likely to spend wisely throughout the season because once you have your key on-trend pieces, you can add affordable separates and statement accessories.

Here are the indispensable pieces that will ensure you start the year on the right style note.



A slip dress

A high street mainstay, it won’t be hard to lay your hands on a slinky number in the sales. Resist the urge to buy a long-sleeved top to wear underneath à la 90s styling trick revived of late. Next year they are going to be the main event and worn solo.





A pair of trainers

Trainers have been the breakout item of the decade and with bulbous, garish and genuine get-fit lace-ups, the style du jour. Some call them sculptural, some call them ugly - but who’s judging? Set to run and run, this is a statement investment.

A micro bag



Declared “the status symbol of 2016” thanks to Saint Laurent and Kate Moss, micro bags look set to demand maximum attention well into 2018. Despite being utterly impractical, they will be to next season’s outfit what the bauble is to today’s Christmas tree: a decoration crucial to finishing your look.



A pencil skirt

Take note: sophisticated separates will be big next year - in particular the pencil skirt. Simple and snazzy versions both tick the trend box, while one with a thigh slit will get you extra style points. Look to Mrs Prada and Alessandro Michele’s Gucci catwalk for experimental styling tips.

A swimsuit

Printed swimsuit from Rixo London. Photograph: supplied



Swimwear is known to be one of the highest mark-up categories, so it’s a good idea to nab one in the sales. Cast the itsy-bitsy bikinis aside in favour of a flattering one-piece as they will be the definitive look in 2018.



A trenchcoat



If you haven’t already got one, get one now. We don’t have the word count to wax lyrical about their reliability, usefulness, wardrobe super powers and general all-round chicness – sorry. But they are going to be the outerwear of choice in the next couple of months, so either dig yours out and dust it off, or refer to the above.