Labor Day is one of the last big shopping opportunities I take advantage of in the second half of the calendar year before what I dub as the “Official Holiday Shopping Season™.” And between tricky transitions between seasons and some changes in personal style, I need to fill a few gaps in my wardrobe.
It’s hard for me to resist a good sale – I’ll always want to at least will see even if I don’t go shopping. Plus, a bit of good old rubber makes my Pinterest inspiration boards interesting.
If you too are easily seduced by a sale, follow my #1 sales rule: never buy without a strategy. We want appreciate good deals, but we don’t want to overextend our wallet. We have budgets to consider and bills to pay!
TCF team purchasing strategy for Labor Day 2023
Our editor-in-chief, Married, approaches this Labor Day sales season by thinking about how “buying sales when the seasons transition is the perfect time to meet the season’s clearance needs and find your favorites in other colors . On top of that, depending on what’s on sale, it’s a great time to buy your wardrobe essentials: suits, swimsuits, jeans, leather, etc.
I approach the Labor Day sales with thoughts of the meantime. September is here, which means we’re moving further away from the hottest parts of summer every day. I’m looking for items that will help me transition from summer to fall and then fall to winter. Think layering items, midi dresses, and fun pants that I could wear with a tank or sweater.
I could also really use some chunky knits, fun semi-casual shoes (loafers, mules, etc.), and accessories to make my simpler, cozier winter outfits pop. Besides my wardrobe updates, my skincare routine needs a bit of an update and the cooler weather calls for a full face of makeup. You will therefore find a little bit of everything in our selection.
1. Colourpop – 30% off sitewide
Pop color has a little bit of everything between pressed shadows and blushes, super shock shadows, and more. I’m looking for smoky shadows, warm fall-toned palettes, and bold gel liners this time of year. Until September 6, 2023, Colourpop’s sitewide sale gets you 30% off everything except the Naruto and Chrome liquid shadows.
2. TomboyX – Buy 3 or more items, get 30% off
TomboyX sells size and gender underwear, including underwear, bras, swimwear, sportswear, and more. We cover all the basics here! Tank tops, menstrual underwear and swimwear. Fill up at TomboyX online. Until September 4, 2023, buy 3 or more items and receive 30% off.
3. Paula’s Choice – 20% off sitewide and 25% off when you spend $95
Paula’s Choice is known for several of its holy grail skin products, like the Skin Perfecting Liquid 2% BHA and the Azelaic Acid Booster 10%. Labor Day is the perfect time to stock up. Through September 4, 2023, take 20% off sitewide or 25% off when you spend $95 or more.
4. Forever 21 – Up to 70% Off Select Styles (Online Only)
Forever 21 always surprises me with their plus size selection. If you’re looking for denim, sweaters, dresses and more, keep an eye out Forever Sale 21! Through September 4, 2023, get up to 70% off select styles when you shop online.