As the summer season winds down, retailers offer some of the best discounts of the year to clear out their inventory and make room for fall collections. Summer clearance sales are a golden opportunity to stock up on high-quality clothing and accessories at a fraction of the original cost. From breezy dresses to sandals and beach-ready bags, this is the time to snag incredible deals on items you can wear now or save for next summer. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best summer clearance deals on clothing and accessories and give you tips on how to maximize your savings during this shopping event.

Women’s clothing: summer dresses, tops, and swimwear

One of the most popular categories during summer clearance sales is women’s clothing, especially summer dresses, lightweight tops, and swimwear. Retailers are eager to clear out these seasonal items to make way for fall and winter collections, meaning you can find steep discounts on pieces that are perfect for warm-weather outings, beach vacations, or lounging by the pool.

Summer dresses: Dresses are a summer wardrobe staple, and clearance sales often feature deep discounts on everything from casual sundresses to elegant maxi dresses. Retailers like Zara, H&M, and ASOS typically offer end-of-season sales where you can find dresses marked down by as much as 50-70%. Look for versatile options in breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Another pro tip: pick up a few flowy maxi dresses, which can be layered with jackets or scarves and worn during the transition into fall.

Tops and blouses: Another great find during summer clearance sales is lightweight tops and blouses. Retailers offer a variety of styles, including crop tops, tank tops, and short-sleeved blouses, all perfect for the remaining warm days of the season. Stores like Forever 21 and Old Navy often discount their summer tops to as low as $5 or $10, giving you the chance to revamp your wardrobe on a budget. Look for classic, neutral colors or simple patterns that you can easily pair with other items in your closet.

Swimwear: Summer clearance sales are also an excellent time to stock up on swimwear. Whether you’re looking for a trendy bikini, a flattering one-piece, or a chic cover-up, swimwear is often marked down by 30-70% during this time. Stores like Target, Aerie, and Victoria’s Secret offer clearance sales that make it easy to find high-quality, stylish swimwear without breaking the bank. Since swimwear doesn’t go out of style as quickly as other clothing items, it’s a smart move to buy during these sales and have options ready for your next vacation or beach day.

Footwear: sandals, sneakers, and espadrilles

Summer clearance sales are a great time to score deals on footwear, particularly sandals, sneakers, and espadrilles. These shoes are perfect for warm-weather adventures, and with clearance prices, you can often snag high-quality, comfortable options at a fraction of their original price.

Sandals: Whether you prefer casual flip-flops, chic slides, or strappy gladiators, summer clearance sales offer significant discounts on sandals. Stores like Nordstrom Rack, DSW, and Steve Madden frequently mark down sandals to as low as 50% off or more. Look for neutral colors like tan, black, and white, which can be easily paired with a variety of outfits. Sandals made from high-quality materials, such as leather or durable faux leather, are great options that will last through several summers.

Sneakers: Sneakers are versatile shoes that can be worn year-round, and summer clearance sales often include markdowns on casual and athletic sneakers. Stores like Nike, Adidas, and Puma frequently offer end-of-season sales where you can find sneakers at reduced prices. Whether you’re looking for a pair of trendy white sneakers for everyday wear or athletic shoes for your workouts, summer sales are a great opportunity to grab top brands at affordable prices. Be on the lookout for limited-edition sneakers or last-season designs that are often included in clearance events.

Espadrilles: Espadrilles are the perfect summer shoe, offering a blend of casual style and comfort. Whether you prefer flat espadrilles or those with a slight wedge heel, they’re great for pairing with summer dresses, shorts, or wide-legged pants. Retailers like Soludos and Madewell often include espadrilles in their summer clearance sales, where you can find stylish options for up to 60% off. These shoes are also ideal for the early days of fall, as their closed-toe design makes them easy to wear during cooler evenings.

Accessories: bags, hats, and sunglasses

Summer accessories are another category where you can score huge savings during clearance sales. Whether you’re looking for a new beach bag, a stylish hat, or some trendy sunglasses, now is the perfect time to grab those must-have accessories at a discount.

Bags: Summer bags, such as totes, crossbody bags, and straw beach bags, are often deeply discounted during end-of-season sales. Stores like Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and Kate Spade frequently mark down their summer collection bags, offering stylish options at a fraction of their original price. Look for versatile bags that can be used year-round, such as neutral-toned totes or durable crossbody bags, which are perfect for travel or daily use.

Hats: Whether you’re looking for a floppy sun hat for the beach or a chic fedora for outdoor outings, summer clearance sales often include discounts on a variety of hat styles. Retailers like J.Crew, H&M, and Free People typically offer hats for up to 50% off during their end-of-season sales. Hats made from natural materials like straw or cotton are not only stylish but also practical for sun protection, making them a great addition to your summer wardrobe.

Sunglasses: Sunglasses are an essential accessory for summer, and clearance sales offer the chance to buy trendy, high-quality frames at a discount. Stores like Sunglass Hut, Quay, and Ray-Ban often participate in summer sales, offering designer and affordable sunglasses for up to 50% off. Look for classic styles like aviators, wayfarers, or oversized frames, which are timeless and can be worn year after year.

Tips for maximizing your summer clearance shopping

Shopping during summer clearance sales can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can make the most of the deals and find the best bargains. Here are some tips to help you shop smarter during these sales:

1. Shop early for the best selection: Clearance sales can sell out quickly, so it’s important to shop early for the best selection of sizes, colors, and styles. Keep an eye on your favorite retailers’ websites or sign up for their newsletters to receive alerts about when the sale starts. Many stores also offer early access to clearance events for loyalty program members.

2. Focus on versatile, timeless pieces: When shopping clearance, look for items that you can wear for more than one season. Timeless pieces like neutral-toned dresses, classic sandals, and simple sunglasses are great investments that won’t go out of style quickly. Avoid trendy items that may feel outdated by next summer.

3. Take advantage of additional discounts: Some stores offer extra discounts on top of clearance prices, such as an additional 20% off when you spend a certain amount. Be sure to check for these promotions, as they can help you save even more. Browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten can automatically apply coupon codes or offer cashback, adding to your savings.

4. Shop for next year: Clearance sales are the perfect time to stock up on summer essentials for next year. Think ahead and buy items that will still be in style, such as swimsuits, sandals, and sundresses. This way, you’ll have a head start on your summer wardrobe without paying full price.

5. Don’t forget accessories: Accessories like hats, bags, and sunglasses are often overlooked during clearance sales but can be some of the best bargains. These items are usually more affordable than clothing and shoes, so they’re a great way to add variety to your wardrobe without spending a lot of money.

Conclusion: snag the best deals before they’re gone

Summer clearance sales offer some of the best opportunities to update your wardrobe with high-quality clothing and accessories at discounted prices. From breezy dresses and sandals to stylish bags and sunglasses, there’s no shortage of great deals to be found. By shopping early, focusing on timeless pieces, and taking advantage of additional discounts, you can make the most of these sales and score fantastic finds that will last for seasons to come.