Some deals only come around once or twice a year, but offer savings that justify the wait. This post is part of our series on such 'don't miss' sales.

Almost all stores hold after-Christmas sales. In fact, I've long thought that a savvy family that time-shifted Christmas to Jan. 25th could pocket hundreds if not thousands of dollars in gift costs. For me, I pick among the January sales looking for appealing items that I would otherwise be unable to afford.

One catalog merchant that holds a great post-holiday sale and carries a wide line of impressive goods is Garnet Hill. It offers women's and children's clothing and household items from linens to furniture. During the sale, a wide selection of its products are available at savings ranging up to 75% off. Garnet Hill offers email sale alerts to clue you in to upcoming bargain opportunities.

When I hear broadcasters bemoaning slack sales during the holiday season, I have to admit that I smile a little inside, knowing the clearance racks will be even fuller.