Who's ready for Christmas shopping? The winter sales are already upon us and it's a great chance to get things that have been sitting on your wish list for all season long. Avoid regrettable purchases and changing room messiness with these amazing tips for successful bargain hunting that you can certainly abide by.

1. Love over money

There's never really been a better time to be smart about shopping and it's quite hard to think straight while shopping these days, thanks to the recession. There's something so magnetic about those cheap price tags, and we tend to go blinded by them. It's much better to buy something you love and spend a bit more than going through post-sales-shopping guilt. It's easy: just decide what your budget is beforehand. Remember, it's not always about spending less but making your money go further and worthwhile.

2. Planning ahead never hurts

Are you a victim of impulse buying? Are you suffering from an illness called indecisiveness? Before you dive into the shopping madness, think about which pieces you might want to get -- are they something you really want? Are they something you can wear now and next season as well? Always think further. Write an organized list of your desired purchases before the sales begin and have it with you on the D-day: this will at least give you a minimum clarity.

3. Get the inside scoop

Are you going to wait for the rest of the world to know about your favorite brand's sale? That's too late.It's a good idea to do some research and get the inside scoop by signing up to mailing lists for sales alert and exclusive offers. Check out Asos.com and look out for Barneys New York Warehouse Sale events, which are among the best for handy tip-offs.

4. The early bird catches the worm

We all know about the great old "first come, first served" rule. Due to the nature of sales shopping, sizes are always limited. Bags, jewelry and any small accessories and leather goods are the first things to go disappear in a sale, since they are size-less. So if you've been coveting for a statement-making piece of jewelry, get in there quickly. Also, if you spot a bag or a pair of shoes that you absolutely love and they're on sale, go for it. Never hesitate.

5. Rock your sales outfit

What you wear on the day of sales is just as much important as what you buy on sales. Save yourself from time-consuming changing room tangles by simply wearing something easy to pull off and slip it back on. How about a T-shirt dress or leggings? They are perfect for trying numerous outfits under or over the top of. Also, nude underwear will work under everything you try on.

6. Size Matters

When prices are slashed, the temptation to buy can be more than overwhelming -- even when the garment in question is not the right size for you. If those shoes are too small, jeans too tight or skirt too short, then it will definitely be a waste of your money. Keep it cool and spend your cash if it's really worth it. Do not compromise! Also, if you're shopping online, you must shop by size as well. A lot of clothing websites carry size filters, so you aren't tempted to buy something that's way too big or too small simply because it's a good deal. It's a great way to do a first edit for shopping.

7. Double or nothing

This method really works. Before you commit to the figure-hiding oversized polyester sweater because it is marked down to only $15.00 and you want to make believe that it's an absolute steal, mentally double the price and ask yourself if you would still make the purchase. As mentioned before, buying something just because it's cheap will only mean that it will end up sadly stuffed and forgotten in the back of your closet. So step away.

8. The three-outfit rule

Do you consider yourself as a fashionista? Then you should shop by this simple rule -- if your purchased piece works well with at least three other pre-owned outfits, then it is a good buy. This is a savvy shopping rule and should be implemented while navigating the sales. No matter how appealing the neon pink PVC trousers might look to you, if they don't go with anything in your closet then forget about them.

9. Classic and timeless

A simple black cashmere cardigan is a timeless piece that you might want to consider purchasing. Also, if you're looking to buy something from designer labels, then definitely go for items that are signature pieces for that specific fashion house. For instance, anything leather from Helmut Lang, red from Valtino, or ribbon from Salvatore Ferragamo will be classic.

10. Upgrade yourself

Are you bored with your style? Do you want something new in your wardrobe? Are you looking for better qualities in outfits, in terms of fabrics and designs? Buying from sales is an amazing opportunity to upgrade your looks. Have a look in your closet and find out what's missing.

Things to avoid & look out for during Christmas shopping

1. Loud and bold

Break away from silence and ditch the restraining conservative looks. It's time to make a bold move. Express yourself and wow everyone with fun, elaborate colorful patterns. You should also look out for anything graphic printed, colored leather, and eye-catching statement jewelry.

2. Show off your figure

Stop playing hide-and-seek in your oversized coats. Show off your figure by wearing a slim fit tuxedo blazer. Think sharp jackets with cigarette pants.

3. Bare your midriff

Avoid off-the-shoulder designs. Scantily-clad Miley Cyrus was criticized by many this year however, the one right decision she made in terms of fashion was flaunting her midriff. Remember, the trend is to go bold -- so do consider adding a crop top to your wardrobe.

4. Buy mid-length skirts

Say good-bye to mini, and opt for below the knee but above the calf for the midi-trend. Even consider buying a pair of culottes.

5. Modern stripes

Although tartan is a classic pattern, go fashion-forward with modern vertical or horizontal simple stripes.

6. Bright colors

No more jewel tones, such as emerald, ruby or sapphire hues. Go for feminine and pretty pastels.

7. Black and navy

These are basic tones are exceptional. Break all the fashion rules and continue to buy these colors.