THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING
Your friend invited you to a party weeks ago, but you're just now (the day before) realizing you have nothing to wear. So you rush to the store. After three hours of unsuccessful shopping, you settle for a dress you don't love. Don't lie, you know this happens all the time. This is a major problem because it means you're not even giving yourself the opportunity to look your best. You shouldn't be treating shopping like a trip to the supermarket. Successful shopping requires a plan.
Shopping for clothes is not like shopping for produce. Don't shop for clothing as you need it. Shop by season. Purchase all the items you may need in one season a month or two prior; the minute new clothes are arriving. Always do a quick closet run-through and refresh your personal style board with new inspiration.
Before You Shop:
Make a Shopping List: Use your personal style board to compile a list of clothes. Be specific by including quantities and colors. Make sure you’re covered with essentials and remember to always stock up on basics. Check off the items you own and shop for what you need.
Create a List of Stores: Put together a list of stores (see below), where you can find each item. This list should cover both physical and online locations.
Window Shop Online: Try to prevent blindly ordering online as much as possible. Check if the item is available in the physical location to try on first.
Where To Shop:
Knowing where find each item will decrease the time spent shopping. To help, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite places to shop by category, all budget friendly!
Uniqlo best for Basics.
Talbots best for essentials (includes plus size)
J.Crew best for fashion-forward essentials, shoes, handbags & jewelry.
Topshop best for jeans & trend items.
Asos.com best for trend items. (includes plus size)
Lulus.com best for trends items.
Eloquii.com best for plus size fashion finds.
DSW for value shoes
While Shopping:
Avoid Buyer’s Remorse: Only buy the things you love. Do not settle. This post will teach you how.
Shop Online: The internet is a great resource. It holds more inventory than any physical store location can. This is where you’re likely to find those items you can’t find anywhere else.
Beware of Sales: Sales are great, but should not be driving your buy. First make sure it’s something you need (it should be on your list), and ensure it’s something you love. Buying something solely because it’s on sale will not save you money in the long run.
Be Mindful of Quality: Always buy good quality basics even if it means paying more.
Have a Cost Per Wear Mentality: Part of shopping on a budget involves thinking about cost, based on the number of wears. You don’t want the items you use often to wear out quickly. When you have a cost per wear mindset you’re able to easily justify and determine the items you should be spending most on.
Psst, feeling overwhelmed and like you can’t do this all on your own. Check out The Wardrobe Revamp where I coach you through building a functional closet you absolutely love.
