If you were to go to your closet right now, fish around in there, as you do, could you find something that you’ve never worn? Or maybe worn once or twice, even though it’s been sitting there for a couple of years. Or how about something that you just adore, cause it’s gorgeous, but you never wear it. It’s for going out and to be honest if you ever actually do leave the house it’s probably because it’s on fire. Or maybe that’s just me.
The point being buying stuff that we never wear is it’s just a massive waste of time and money. Particularly as we then tend to keep it around because well, we spent a bloody fortune on that and it’s practically brand new and, I might wear it one day. Plus it bulks up our wardrobe and disguises the fact that we do in fact wear the same three outfits over and over again. With the same shoes.
Here are 5 things to remember to avoid those costly mistakes when shopping:
1. Know your body shape and what doesn’t work for you: Well of course I’m going to put this first; that’s the whole point of the website! It’s important though. Don’t waste time or energy – physical or emotional – trying to pull off something that’s just not going to suit you, ever. I go into a shop, pick up whatever and look at the shape of it, the detailing, the cut. I know that for my particular shape I need to avoid any sort of added anything on the top, empire lines, and boxy cuts. If the item has any of those things I move on. That’s before I even look to see if they have it in my size. Size is unimportant. Fit is everything.
What shape of clothes flatters what body types is not going to change, regardless of your size. For instance a surplice top will look great on anyone with big boobs whether you’re a size 4 or a size 18 or anywhere in between.
Its good to know what shapes and styles will work, but I find it more helpful to have a list of what categorically WON’T work. It’s a smaller list and gives you a wider range of choices.
2. Know your style: Defining style is something I’ll be talking about more later, but for the moment consider your lifestyle. How do you spend your days? Do you work? Are you a homemaker? Are you someone who’s really active? Or maybe your idea of a good time is a cappuccino at a swanky cafe. Do you live in a temperate climate or the seventh circle of hell?
Your wardrobe is about dressing you with confidence to meet your individual lifestyle. And maybe that sequined top is not the best idea if your day is going to consist of nappy changes and walks in the park. It sounds simple, and obvious and everyone is probably thinking, well duh! but that doesn’t explain why I have a tweed suit when I live in the tropics.
3. Know what you’re looking for in advance: It’s much easier to find a ‘white fitted shirt’ than ‘something to wear to work’ – go figure. This is also a good way of saving time. Walk in, say I want [insert garment name here] and let the attendants do all the work. Alright!
If you don’t know exactly what you want then break it down into dress or top or bottom or accessories. Then if, say accessories, jewellry or shoes or handbags. Then for what particular occasion? Work? Going out? Staying in? Putting in a little thought before hand will save you time and money in the looking and you’re less likely to end up with that impulse buy you’ve never worn.
I’m all for discipline but I’m also a bargain hunter so no matter what I’m looking for I always keep my eye out for a good deal or a great pair of shoes. I consider this a bonus and no matter what anyone says if I buy a pair of shoes it doesn’t mean I shouldn’t have bought what I was looking for in the first place.
4. Know what you’ve already got: There’s an old joke about a depressed woman shopping with her husband. She tries on a fabulous dress and manages a wan smile before urging her husband to buy it for her. “Honey” he says, “a dress alone is not going to make you happy,” which she dutifully considers. “You’re right” she replies “I’ll have the bag and shoes as well.”
Whilst this sounds like a lot of fun you’ll save a lot more money by buying things that will work with your current wardrobe. The idea is to build up a collection of items that you can mix and match to create a stunning array of individually creative outfits. That said, the sequined top is probably not going to work with the ugh boots unless you’re 15 or possibly Pamela Anderson. Neither is it likely to fit with three piece black suits and sensible pumps.
I avoid adding something totally different to the mix unless I have an idea for an outfit. If it doesn’t work at least I gave it a shot and now I know.
5. Dress Well When You Shop: Its a sad fact of life that the best dressed women will likely get the best service as well. Its unfair maybe, but it is what it is. Work with it. The other reason to dress well is comparison. If you go out dressed in a way that makes you feel sexy and beautiful whatever you try on should look as good as or better than what you’re currently wearing. If it doesn’t why consider buying it? You already look better. Don’t loose heart. If you managed to find one fantastic outfit, you can do it again. And again. And again…
If you keep these things in mind then you’ll be less likely to end up with stuff you never wear.
Just in closing remember that shopping is fun! Ok, for some of us shopping has been a nightmare of exposing what really ought not to be exposed and an unhappy exercise in lacerating vulnerable and tender feelings. Or again, possibly, that’s just me. I used to have a kamikaze attitude to shopping. Streak in, grab a bunch of whatever was in my size, try it on, feel horrible at how bad I look and then buy the least offensive of the lot. It was stressful, really unpleasant and left me with a bad taste in my mouth and a whole lot more ammunition for my inner critic. It didn’t do much for my wardrobe either.
Researching and writing this website has put me back in touch with how much fun shopping can be. It’s like a giant treasure hunt and finding that treasure is an amazing feeling. I love getting dressed and looking great. Not like a model or celebrity or any of the women who feature in the magazines maybe, but like me, only hot. Who’d have thunk it!
Good shopping everybody, and thanks for reading.
LISA
