Beijing's first snow has arrived, along with muddy roads, terrible traffic and freezing temperatures. That's why we're shopping online now--and lucky for us, the big online retailers are having huge holiday sales at the moment. Vcotton is offering 70 percent discounts on socks, scarfs and underwear. Also, Vancl has socks for RMB9, winter boots for RMB99, with shirts and hoodies going for RMB79. 360buy.com is slashing 60 percent off all women's winter boots, with Dangdang shaving 75 percent off thermal underwear.

For those braving the nasty weather, Prada’s annual sale starts this week, with 30 percent discounts on shoes and selected nylon handbags. Wangjing’s NOVO mall is giving RMB50 off to shoppers who spend over RMB100 on clothing. We've also heard that Joy City Chaoyang has Christmas gift bags (with movie tickets and shopping coupons tucked inside) valued at RMB200 for shoppers who spend over RMB888.

Shin Kong Place
Before Nov. 30, shoppers who spend between RMB2,000-30,000 can get gifts like Santa Claus hats, small Christmas trees, Ferrero chocolates, Spanish wines or Barbie dolls for free. Also, there's a big sale on the fifth floor which includes labels like Danza, Erdos, Elle, Sunfed, Ein, Soir Dolce and Meacheal. In mid-December, Dior’s Another World flagship store will open. Until Dec. 25

City Mall
Before Dec. 30, City Mall members can exchange shopping points (488 points to 88,880 points) for gifts like gas cards valued at RMB500 and shopping coupons valued at RMB200 to RMB10,000. Claim at reception. Free parking is available. Until Dec. 30