Internet payment provider ClickandBuy recently carried out some research with YouGov.

The survey found 44% plan to spend more time online looking for cheaper versions of high street buys, rather than reduce their spend during the recession.

36% said they would be spending more online than on the high street in 2009, compared to 2008.

Fashion is an area that people will cut back on in terms of how much they spend, rather than how much they buy.

That’s why private sales websites such as Cocosa, Brand Alley and Vente-Privee, and discount stores like Koodos, have grown in popularity, as have discount codes.

They offer access to designer brands at affordable prices – the discount is the new in-store shopping experience.