Have you ever went shopping, came back with lots of bags, look at what you got and then being overwhelmed with guilt? Or have you ever opened your wardrobe, looked through it and wonder: “what was I thinking when I bought this?” Not to mention the time when you’re wandering where does all the money go…Because we’ve all been there and done that, I though of combining some tips (that I repeat to myself) on how to be smart shoppers…and I think that sales season is just the perfect period for this post!!
1) Make a rough plan of what you want to buy
First of all, I didn’t use the word need, because you probably don’t “need” much. Second, this is very very practical when you’re hitting the stores during sales! If you’re not focused, you’re probably going to buy lots of stuff you won’t like eventually! Because it’s cheap, doesn’t mean you need it! I admit that I’ve found some “gems” during sales, when I least expected it, but that’s the exception, not the rule!
2) Always have in mind the cost per wear ratio
I’ve studied business administration, so it’s only natural to think with economic terms when shopping for something expensive. Always, always look for pieces you will wear over and over again. You can splurge on an expensive bag (I have too, a couple of times), but make sure it will be one that you’ll carry for many years to come!
3) Make sure that the new piece of clothing matches with existing ones
I usually try to make “sets” on my head. For example a couple of months ago I bought a purple top. Instantly I thought that I have matching shoes, and bag, and even a bra (the top is slightly sheer)!! You don’t have to make color sets like I did, but make sure that your new acquisition matches with your existing clothes (as many as possible!!), so that you can wear it in different ways.
4) Never, ever, buy something that does not fit you!
It might be on sale…or it’s the latest “It” dress…or a pair of trendy jeans in the best price possible, whatever it is DON’T buy it if it doesn’t fit you properly (no the thought that you’ll lose weight doesn’t count, and I’m sure you’ve read that advise many many times…it’s a common one!)
So tell me…what’s your tips for smart shopping? would you like to share?
i agree with everything you have. my tip would be investing on accessories during sales, like colored tights, belts or hats. stuff you wouldn’t buy for full price but might come in handy someday. and you don’t feel bad because you get these during sales. at least i don’t
Para poli wraies simvoules! Omologw oti exw kanei polla apo ta parapanw lathi sto parelthon…Alla oso pernane ta xronia mathainoume na min epanalamvanoume.
great advice!
So true! I love your cost per wear ratio. I don’t mind spending good money on something I wear a lot, but if I don’t wear it much it just kills me.
Bravo! I completely agree – and #1 is something I absolutely need to work on, personally. I’ll very often go into sales and just pick about on the racks, taking things here and there just because I like the look of them. But they’re not things I’ve been pining for so I end up donating them after the season anyway! And keeping the rest of your closet in mind is very practical!
I too think of all the outfits I could wear “sale item” with and ask myself WHY i would buy it. Is it because it is X label on sale, because it is only X amount of $ > things like that. Walked away from a coat yesterday because my reason for buying it would’ve been “it’s only $20″
All the tips are very good, especially the last one!