SHE ATTENDS INVITE-ONLY PREVIEW SALES FOR THE BEST PICKINGS

HAZEL CHANG, 26

Owner of Eclecticism boutique in Wisma Atria

Shopping philosophy: 'I wait for the sales of brands that I like best...Goods tend to get overly handled or damaged during big sales, so I prefer invite-only preview sales for the best pickings.'

Best buys at this year's GSS: Two pairs of Ferragamo shoes for about $600 each. They are usually $900.

SHE BUYS WELL-MADE GOODS THAT LAST HER THROUGH THE YEAR

JEANNETTE BLIGH, 39

Presentation operation supervisor in the broadcasting industry

Shopping philosophy: 'I buy for quality, not quantity. Normally, I buy things I need that will last me through the year.'

Best buys at this year's GSS: She has not bought anything yet.

SHE BEFRIENDS STORE ASSISTANTS WHO INFORM HER OF UPCOMING SALES AND HELP RESERVE STOCK

BERNADINE GAN, 35

Group account director in an advertising firm

Shopping philosophy: 'It helps to be a regular patron of a few favourite stores and befriend sales assistants there, as they will call me if there are upcoming sales and help reserve items or arrange for minor alterations.'

Best buys at this year's GSS: She has just returned from an overseas trip and has not had the chance to shop yet.

HE BUYS MULTIPLE PIECES OF CHEAP ITEMS IF HE LIKES THEM, EVEN IF THE SIZES DO NOT FIT

AAGHIR YADAV, 27

Show producer

Shopping philosophy: 'I can go all out and buy multiple pieces of the same thing if I like it. I buy special- looking items regardless of size. If I get a good price, I'll grab it there and then and take it to a tailor.'

Best buys at this year's GSS: Two pairs of jeans from Levi's, three pairs of jeans from Topshop, pants from Giordano Concepts, a shirt from Zara, a shirt from Voltar, many basic tops, scarves and shorts from brand Cotton On.

He has spent about $600.

HE DOES NOT WAIT FOR A SALE TO GO SHOPPING, NOR WILL HE BUY ITEMS JUST BECAUSE THEY ARE ON SALE

JEREMY TAN, 26

Insurance agent

Shopping philosophy: 'I don't really buy much. I go shopping about once a week and frequent men's apparel shops, sports shops, game shops and pet shops. If I like something, I will buy it even if it's not on sale.'

Best buys at this year's GSS: He bought a PlayStation game at 10 per cent to 20 per cent off from a game shop in VivoCity, but did not buy it just because it was on sale.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.