Do you really want it? beat impulse buying by getting organised and making lists before you go shopping

Sales can be overwhelmingly tempting - but get organised, make lists, and overhauling your wardrobe for the spring can be a doddle, writes LISA HAYNES If you are one of those shoppers that aimlessly spends, spends, spends at the drop of a winter hat, you can find yourself drowning in a clothes mountain at the end of the year.

So, start off 2008 with a fashion overhaul and get your wardrobe shipshape for the season ahead. And if you are planning on attacking what's left of the January sales, you will definitely need to make some more hanger space!

So where do you start when it comes to reorganising your clothes?

Rachel Zoe, stylist to the stars and author of the new book Style A to Zoe (Grand Central Publishing, £16.99), recommends starting off the New Year by writing lists.

"Lists that help plan out an outfit, a trip, or even accessories you're missing can go a long way towards making life easier for you," she says.

"Figure out what's missing in your wardrobe and what needs to be repaired, and write it all down. Keep the list in your purse or pocket when you hit the shopping trail.

"Otherwise, it's like going to the supermarket hungry.

"You start to buy things you don't really need because you're starving. It can get even worse during a sale. So make a checklist of what you need and stick to it."

Rachel has these must-have recommendations for every fashionista's wardrobe: n Classic black dress n Nude or black patent pumps n Gold cuff or bracelet n Perfect red lipstick n Black tights n An all-season wrap or shrug Unless you are Victoria Beckham, chances are you may not have a walk-in wardrobe to house every fashion season and shoe style. Sarah Ivens, author of A Modern Girl's Guide To Getting Organised (Piatkus, £7.99) has this advice for achieving the ideal wardrobe and closet space.

"First of all, you need to get ruthless," she says. "Be honest, if it doesn't fit, or you haven't worn it in the past year, throw it out.

"If you can't bring yourself to give everything away to the charity shop, then consider throwing a switch and bitch' party for your friends, where mates get together for a gossip and a drink and swap unwanted items.

"If even that is too traumatic, then at least put these clothes in a box and store them away safely. Set yourself a deadline though; if after a year you still haven't worn any of these clothes, then is the time to do your bit for charity and take them to your nearest store."

The next stage is organising by season, and you don't have to suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder to get in on the tidying act.

Sarah says: "Unless you're living the jet-set lifestyle when you're frequently crossing hemispheres and seasons, then most likely you can divide your wardrobe into at least two seasons: spring/summer and autumn/winter. Unless you've adequate room, then any out-of-season clothes should be stored away until an appropriate time."

Now you've created some extra space, why not treat yourself to a few must-have sales bargains? But beware, don't go cramming that closet with clothes that you are never going to wear.

Amanda Slader, chief fashion advisor at John Lewis, reveals her sales best buys: "Essentials to look out for are classic trousers in a neutral colour which won't date, and basics such as well-cut white shirts, boots and a leather handbag," she recommends.

"Opt for a bargain which is season-less. You'll get more wear out of it.

"Always ask yourself why something is a bargain," Amanda advises.

"Check the cut and fit and avoid garish colours. Leave very high fashion items alone. The season has passed - invest in what's hot for spring instead.

9:15am Monday 28th January 2008

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