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The moment fashion lovers have been waiting for is almost here. The January sales are about to kick off throughout Spain and if you've been eyeing up certain items all season long, now's your chance to finally snap them up without the guilt of paying full price.

 

Gone are the days when every shop in Spain started their sales on the same day. Nowadays, brands set their own schedules, which means you need to stay on your toes if you want to catch the best deals before everyone else does.

 

The good news is that we've done the homework for you, so you know exactly when to pounce on those discounts at Zara, Mango and El Corte Inglés.

 

 

Zara traditionally launches its winter sales on January 7 in physical stores but for the past few seasons, the brand has been treating its online shoppers to an early preview, typically starting the discounts on its website and app on the afternoon of January 6. That's right, while everyone else is still stuffing themselves with roscón and admiring their Three Kings gifts, you could be filling your virtual basket with bargains.

 

If you want to get your hands on the most sought-after pieces, this is when you need to strike. Those perfect leather jackets and designer-looking coats don't hang around for long once the discounts hit.

 

The sales continue for several weeks, with discounts that gradually increase as the campaign goes on. They usually last until the end of January or the beginning of February, depending on how quickly stock shifts and what sizes are still available.

 

 

Mango follows a similar pattern, with its winter sales generally starting on January 7 in stores. Like Zara, the brand often gets a head start online, launching discounts a few days before the physical shops join the party.

 

The early discounts tend to be more modest, so if you're willing to play the waiting game, you can often snag your favourite pieces at even better prices as the sales progress. Patience really does pay off here, especially if you're not fussed about having the latest drop the moment it goes on sale.

 

Expect the sales to run until the end of January, though they sometimes stretch a few days longer in the online store, particularly if certain sizes or collections are still hanging around.

 

 

El Corte Inglés keeps things refreshingly straightforward. The department store giant starts its winter sales on January 7, both in stores and online, and runs them for several weeks. This gives shoppers the luxury of browsing at a more leisurely pace rather than feeling pressured to snap everything up in the first mad rush.

 

 

The January sales are brilliant for snagging items you've been coveting all season, but it's easy to get carried away in the excitement. Here are a few quick tips to help you make the most of the discounts without ending up with a wardrobe full of regrets and an empty bank account.

 

Make a list before you leave the house or start browsing online. It sounds boring, but knowing what you actually need helps avoid those impulse purchases that seem like a great idea at the time but end up gathering dust.

 

Always check that the original price is displayed alongside the sale price. If an item has been reduced multiple times, the lowest recent price should be the reference point, not some inflated figure from months ago.

 

Remember that sale items should still be in perfect condition. A discount doesn't mean you should accept damaged goods or poor quality. Stores must offer new products without defects, so don't settle for less.

 

For online purchases, you have a legal 14-day withdrawal period where you can return items without needing to justify why. Physical stores aren't legally obligated to accept returns unless there's a defect, so always ask about the return policy before buying.

 

Keep your receipt. This is your proof of purchase and absolutely essential if you need to make a claim or exchange something later. Without it, shops aren't obliged to help you out.

 

Finally, try not to go shopping just for the sake of it. We've all done it, gone out for a casual browse and come home with bags full of stuff we didn't plan to buy. The sales are exciting, but your wallet will thank you for showing some restraint.

 

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