The danger with sales is that you end up with a cart full of items that can date fairly quickly. What seems like a bright idea at the time could be relegated to the back of your wardrobe come December. A good rule of thumb is to opt for classic, timeless pieces – think crisp white shirts, well-cut chinos or true blue jeans – to avoid falling into this trap.

Within reason, of course. There’s no point attempting to squeeze yourself into a pair of brogues that are two sizes too small just because they’re half price, but good-quality suits or tailored items, such as this Canali blazer, can be altered to fit perfectly by a good tailor. And certain items, such as boxy T-shirts or sweatshirts, look good a little oversized.

The Sale usually starts long before the end of summer – just in time for any upcoming trips. This makes it the perfect time to stock up on the spring/summer collections, which are usually filled with swim shorts, summery shirts and beach-ready items such as espadrilles or slides, for less.

Essentials are items you’ll always need – and always need in abundance, regardless of the time of year. Given their relatively low price point, they tend to go quickly, so make haste if you want to restock your T-shirt, underwear or sock drawer.

If you’ve got your eye on something, someone else probably has, too. This is especially true of limited-edition items and pieces from collaborations or exclusives, which tend to sell out sharpish. If you’ve been coveting this Billionaire Boys Club rug, which is available only at MR PORTER, for example, we suggest you act fast.

There’s no shame in getting your gifts in the sale. It could mean the recipient gets a wow present rather than something so-so. And it’s not just menswear in the MR PORTER sale. There are plenty of grooming products, accessories and watches up for grabs.

Yes, yes, we know this goes against our advice to stick to the classics, but standout items are the secret to defining your personal style, especially if it’s something you’re really taken with. Ask yourself if you would still love this if it were full price. If the answer is a resounding yes, add it to your shopping bag now.

Always wanted a proper leather jacket? Need a suit for work? Or perhaps you’re in the market for a new bag. Now is the time to start searching for those high-investment pieces, the items you’ll get a lot of wear out of for a good long while. With up to 50 per cent off right now, these splurge items can be a steal during the sale.

In the hazy, heady days of summer, you don’t necessarily want to be thinking about your winter wardrobe. You’ve got a pub garden to get to, after all. But it’s prudent to be prepared for chillier weather. You may not get much wear out of thick sweater or cardigan at the moment, but give it a couple of months and you’ll be thanking us.

Sportswear tends not to follow the same trends and whims as everyday fashion (this season’s running jacket will boast the same technical merits as next season’s), so the sale is an excellent opportunity to refresh your gym or workout wardrobe. Aim for enough items to last you a full week, so you need to do only one load of laundry.