Coupon Craze Frugal Forecast for December

2011 is almost ready for its curtain call now that December is upon us, so what better way to celebrate than with a new Frugal Forecast from the Coupon Craze staff? You already know about residual Cyber Monday offerings, but we’ll go a step further with insights into specific sales trends to help you scoop up the best bargains at just the right time. Plus, you'll get a heads up on our staff's picks for the 5 best new coupons this month—and the 5 best expiring ones you may want to grab before the month is over. So here’s our Forecast for the best ways to stay frugal in December.

Expiring Soon

These deals are going, going… so hurry up before it’s too late. GlassesShop.com knows that new specs can be expensive, which is why through December 16th they are offering $1 frames. Even though the super saving Black Friday weekend is over, FILA.com wants to double your deals by sharing a secret sale every Friday through the 23rd where the entire site is 40% off, plus through 25% off your purchase, through December 12th. Bloomingdales.com knows that ladies are looking for the perfect New Year’s Eve dress, so through December 4th you can get $25 off your $100 purchase.

Warm to the Core

Temperatures have been rather mild throughout the country, so you probably aren’t even thinking about buying winter outwear, yet. If you indeed wait until January and February, statistically the coldest months of the year, you are likely to pay full price. Right now, winter outwear, clothing and accessories (i.e. hats, gloves and scarves) are all on sale. LordandTaylor.com has ladies winter coats discounted 40% through December 7th, while JCPenny.com has reduced their kids’ outwear by 30 – 50%. Dad may like to know that Puma.com has all jackets and outwear marked down by 30% off until December 31st.

Giving Thanks

Challenge yourself to preparing Thanksgiving dinner for your family next year, by beginning your adventures into cooking now. A non-stick roaster pan is essential for a delicious bird, and until January 2nd you can buy one for $19.99 at BrylaneHome.com. Cooking.com is also offering a must-have item for the newbie chef, with their 5-piece Turkey 101 kit. It is currently part of the 40% clearance sale, so don’t wait.

After-Christmas Clearance

Start your gift shopping for next year before this year’s holidays have been wrapped up in a nice, pretty bow. Many retailers will roll out huge deals as early as December 26th and throughout the New Year. Teleflora.com is offering 15% off holiday flowers and arrangements, and even though the flowers won’t last until next year, you can repurpose that beautiful vase that your buds arrived in for a special someone in 2012. GummyLump.com has a holiday sale running through December 31st that promises to save you up to 30% off toys. Zulily.com, which offers insane deals for kids at up to 90% off, wants you to have stuffed stockings next year, by gifting you $5 off a $50 purchase through December 31st. Mom, only you can appreciate the beauty of a vacuum, so treat yourself to a new Dyson vac at up to $140 off, when you shop their holiday bundles. Just think of all the messes that you’ll joyfully be cleaning up this season.

Happy Holidays to you and yours, from the CouponCraze.com family.