Is a beach getaway in your future? October is a great time to save on cruise wear and swimsuits, says Patricia Davidson, author of "The Shopaholic's Guide to Buying Fashion and Beauty Online" and founder of TheSiteGuide.com.
"You can save a lot," she says. Just how much depends on the kind of brands you're eyeing.
On women's items, you could score bargains of "at least 50 percent and up to 75 percent," Davidson says. With men's things, the price cuts typically top out at half-price, she says. And since men's casual wear tends to be "more classic," you may not see as many items on sale, she says.
At this time of year, you're going to be pawing through racks that have seen a lot of traffic, so sizes and choices may be limited, she says. One work-around is to use online venues, Davidson says. Some e-retailers even take your size information before displaying sale merchandise, so you don't risk falling in love with something only to discover there aren't any left, she says.
Another potential bargain this month: fashion jewelry. If it's seasonal -- think brightly colored or trendy -- you can save up to 75 percent, Davidson says.