In Belgium, a trader can only sell products under the name 'sale' (soldes in French) twice a year. Both periods of sales are determined by law. Those sales are the seasonal renewal of the range of the trader. This is done through an accelerated selling at lower product prices.
Before the start of the sales there is a waiting period. During this waiting period, it is legally prohibited by law to have sales in the clothing, footwear and leather sector.
The summer sales thus take place from 1 til 31 July.
The winter sales take place from 3 to 31 January.
Usually on the first weekend the sale started, there will be an exceptional opening of the shops (ouverture exceptionnelle) on Sunday.
Sometimes we need to be patient to shop in Europe because of these seasonal sales. If I want to buy certain items, I usually wait for the nearest sale period. A skinny waist belt only cost me 1 EUR, a bag or dress can be as cheap as 5 EUR during sale! But it could be tricky shopping during the sale period. The first day offers many options but less discounts while near the end of the period less option but crazy discounts. I believe if it's my lucky day, I will find what I'm looking for *preparing bank cards, wink to Prince Charming.