What kind of shopper are you?

TORONTO, July 22, 2015 /CNW/ - No matter what kind of back-to-school shopper you are, preparation and research is the key.

For some Canadians, the thrill of shopping for the September return to studies begins just days after the school year lets out in June. For others, the search for new outfits and technology takes place in August, and sometimes it doesn't kick off until classes resume in the fall.

But no matter how you or your student plan to get ready for the new school year, it's important to do your research, make a plan and target exactly what you need before you get overwhelmed. 

Back to school shoppers tend to fall into one of three categories:

The Early Bird: These shoppers can't wait to get started. By the time July rolls around, one in four back to school shoppers has already begun to research products. In fact, as of mid-July, more than one-third (34%) of U.S. consumers had already begun shopping, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers' (ICSC) BTS Consumer Spending Survey If anything, the hardest part of back to school shopping might be saving their outfits for school time.

The Traditionalist: Shopping for back to school supplies in the heat of August is a rite of passage for many Canadian students (one that comes all too soon in the eyes of many), and it's only as the summer starts to wind down that they start to think about what they'll need for the year ahead.

The Patient Planner: Not sure what's going to be in this year? Nothing says you have to do your back to school shopping before school resumes. There's nothing wrong with seeing what's in fashion, then seeing how you can fit what's "in" this year with what's "you."

Regardless of when you plan on getting out to the mall to fill your wardrobe, it's important to scope out your own closet before you go. Identify what 'staples' – like jeans, white t-shirts, or skirts – could be updated for this season, then layer on the trends, making each one your own through mixing and matching to find the right style.

Not sure what trends are going to be hot this year? For a list of shopping centres near you and for the latest advice, check out the Cadillac Fairview Website, cfshops.ca for links to individual malls throughout Canada that offer the latest advice and brands to make the most of your back to school shopping.

While many students may be tempted to shop online, to ensure the right look come together it's often important to mix, match and try the new wardrobe on in store before buying. Online sites are great for ideas and inspiration for your closet, but nothing beats the feeling of trying something on for size in store.

After all, there's only one first day of school, and you want to make a lasting impression, one that lasts the whole school year.

SOURCE Cadillac Fairview