Shopping Sense

Welcome back to the “What Is In Your Closet?” series.  Have you ever bought a garment on pure impulse?  Of course you have!  And, like me you probably put it away in your closet only to rediscover it a year later wondering whatever possessed you.  We all fall into the trap of impulsive shopping; after all we are bombarded every day with endless advertisement designed to condition us to consume without restraint.  So, we end up with overstuffed closets not wearing half of what we have purchased.  The following tips might be useful to you next time you go shopping for garments.

Mental Checklist 

     Before buying a new piece of clothing ask yourself the following questions.

–          With what will I wear this?

–         Do I need to purchase something that will go with it or do I already have something suitable?

–         Is it washable or will it need dry cleaning?

–         Is it “my” color?

–         Why do I think this is flattering on me?  (Salespeople are trained to flatter you, listen to your inner voice instead of theirs!)

Quality over Quantity

How many black sweaters do you really need? Instead of hoarding five or more on a bargain just get a couple.  High quality costs more but it will look better and last longer.  Have you ever wondered about those cashmere sweaters sales? Every fall they are in every department store.  The sweaters look good at first glance…the colors are great! But look closer; the sweaters are thin, they don’t have much style and they are likely not 100% cashmere.  They will not hold their shape.  They are the illusion of bargain.  It will pay off in the end to buy fewer items, yet, be willing to spend more per item.

Outfit over Single Items

As already mentioned in the mental checklist always think “outfits” when shopping.  You will stretch both your closet and your pocketbook.  You will feel like an expert. Picture yourself in the new outfit.  Picture yourself going places in it. If you then feel excited by all means buy it!

Open-mindedness over loyalty

While I do favor certain labels and stores I try not to become an overly loyal customer.  I want to shop around.  I am looking for quality of textile, fit and style not for a particular label.  A prestigious designer label is pricey but not necessarily a guaranty for quality.  It should be, but in our days it is not.  An outfit should speak for itself and should not need the fanfare of a prestigious label to be a successful choice.   By shopping around you are not limiting yourself; shopping becomes an adventure and an opportunity for discovery.

Trends are Traps

Of course who does not want be in style?  To me, however, fashionable is not synonymous with trendy.  Trendy is a look the fashion industry creates; fashionable is a look you create. If for whatever reason you lack confidence, ask a friend whose style you like to help you in your decisions.

The Power of Accessories

While I might buy clothes on a wise budget, I will occasionally splurge on high-end designer accessories.  I consider them great investments.  A prestigious designer scarf, handbag or belt is timeless.  I have a number of such items in my closet that I have collected over the years.  I do not tire of them.  Like fine jewelry they add an instant chic to any outfit.

Lucky Finds 

     Rarely have I liked anything that I bought on an impulse.  Impulses are moments of temporary misguidance driven by a sudden urge.  With it comes a rush of adrenaline and a sense of excitement. It is precisely the excitement that is the bait.  On the contrary lucky finds have always given me a trump card. Lucky finds are surprises.  The best items in my closet are lucky finds and I have never regretted purchasing them.  I know a lucky find when I see it; it is a moment of unmistakable serendipity.  It feels as if this very item was meant for you…a true custom fit!  Never turn your back on a lucky find!