Hello lovelies! I have been thinking about what I would like to write my heart out about on my first blog post and I finally settled on my 5 top things to keep in mind when I am shopping.
Back in the day (and maybe still occasionally) I did alot of impulsive shopping. When I was happy, I shopped, When I was sad, I shopped. When I achieved a goal, I shopped. Shopping gave me the fuzzies all around (and it still does)! I was aware of my bad habit, and I knew I had to develop a strategy to maintain a healthy relationship with the malls. Below are some of my tips that helped me develop solid shopping habits.
TIP #1
Purchase investment pieces you love
Petite clothing shopping can sometimes be expensive because of the special sizing, especially for office attire. When I see something that is a little on the pricey side, I only purchase it if I absolutely love it. You need to determine if the fit is right, and take into consideration of any additional costs you may incur if you need a seamstress to make further alterations. Look for versatile pieces that you can mix and match either for a casual night out or a day at the office. Investing and spending the time to pick out items that you truly love (with a bang-on fit) will make you feel so much better about your purchase and I promise, you will get so much more wear of it as opposed to buying something that's a bad fit.
TIP #2
Put the item on hold and sleep on it.
If I am feeling torn about something I want to buy, I simply ask the store to put it on hold. Sometimes it's good to walk away, and really think about if you really want or need that particular item. Putting it on hold gives you that safety net (especially if you're a unique size) to process your thoughts, your budget and to scope out other options as well! It's always great to check out various stores to compare items for prices and sizing.
Tip #3
Try on your items and go with an open mind
Try it on! I will admit, I always hated trying on clothes in store. I simply had no patience for it......until my husband (boyfriend at the time) convinced me to give it a whirl. I am so glad I got into that habit for several reasons:
1) You think you may like it, but you may or may not when you try it on.
2) Saves your time and money so you don't have to go back to the store (unless you really want to lol)
3) Sizing runs differently at different stores. For example, I fluctuate between a size 0 and 00 at Banana Republic in their Sloan pants. Why? Not sure, even though its the same style of pants, they sometimes fit differently.
4) Be open to trying new things on! You may see something that you would never imagine wearing, but then you try it on and amaze yourself! I always pleasantly surprise myself in the change room :)
Tip #4
Keep your eyes open for a good sale
Do not buy the first thing you see. I find that if I pack my patience, alot of things I love end up going on sale within a couple of weeks. Yes, it may be tedious to keep checking all the time, but I love to save a few pennies here and there and feel so much better about a sale purchase as opposed to regular price. If my size is sold out by the time the sale comes around, I eventually conclude that it was just not meant to be. If you get a feeling that your size is running low and you really want to make the purchase, go for it! I would recommend making the purchase and inquiring about the price adjustment policy. Most stores are pretty good with this and will honour a price adjustment within a certain time frame. So ask away!
Tip #5
Shop your own closet
I think we always underestimate what we already own! I always scope out my closet before I make a purchase. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you find hidden at the back. I am especially guilty when I am packing for a vacation. I always feel the need to purchase all these amazing booty shorts and swimsuits, yet I have atleast 20 pairs of shorts in my closet. Just take a few moments to shop your own closet before you set out on your mall trip! Your wallet will thank you :)
Love,
Big T
xoxo
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