During the holidays, you should expect to spend even more time at the mall than you do now. Long lines, overbearing crowds and an endless shopping list can be exhausting, and will likely result in a holiday shopping trip that lasts several hours. Since you’re probably going to making a considerable investment in time, it pays off to be prepared by dressing appropriately for each expedition. Naturally, you want to dress both fashionably and practically, so here are some helpful tips for balancing both of these objectives.

1. Compact Purses

You might instinctively want to reach for your biggest bag before the trip, since you’ll likely be gone for an extended period of time. However, it’s important to pack as lightly as possible so you don’t end up weighing yourself down more than necessary. Choose a cute, compact purse—preferably one with longer straps so it can sit comfortably across your chest—and only carry essentials like your wallet, keys and ID.

2. Cardigans

It’s hard to predict the temperature of public places in the winter because they either have the heat blasting or they don’t seem to have any heat at all. You’ll want to be prepared for potential temperature changes as they occur, so make sure to either wear or bring along a comfortable cardigan to go with your outfit. Any basic colored cardigan will do. However, you can also have a little fun with this look by wearing animal prints or cute polka dot patterns to give your look a little more flavor.

3. Flat Shoes

This one might seem a little obvious, but you’d be surprised how many girls you see at the mall going all out in a pair of heels when you know their feet must be throbbing. Even though heels will certainly show off your fashionable feminine side, they aren’t exactly the most practical choice for a day of walking around the mall. Choose cute flat boots or a pair of girly ballerina flats to keep your feet as comfortable as possible for the long walk through the maze of the mall.

4. Leggings/Jeggings

Want to just wear your yoga pants to the mall but don’t want to look like you just came from your morning vinyasa class? Put on a pair of comfy leggings and throw on an oversized sweater for a cute and cozy look that feels as comfortable as your pajamas. If you’re not as comfortable wearing leggings out, try a nice pair of jeggings to get the polished look of a nice pair of jeans with the comfortable feel of leggings.

In addition to comfort, you want to look cute when you go to the mall, since feeling confident and fashionable will help prevent impulsive purchasing. After all, who can resist a new pair of shoes when you’re wearing your oldest pair of ill-fitting flats? If you’ve ever been to the mall anytime after Thanksgiving, you can easily see why preparation ahead of time is the smartest way to get in and out as quickly and comfortably as possible.