I’ve come across a lot of women lately who say they don’t like shopping.  What’s up with that?  I know it can be hectic and frustrating, but if you know a few tips and tricks, it can be a wonderful time.  Here are a few things I’ve learned.

1. Know what you need.  When shopping for clothing, it’s extremely important first to know what you’re looking for.  Take stock of your closet.  Do you need a particular item to complete an outfit?  Keep an ongoing list in your purse so that you always know what you need. 
2. Know your style.  Just out to buy one complete outfit?  What’s your clothing style?  I’ve found it works best to stay with a few chains and specialty shops where I know the return policy and that always carry my “style.”  Choose a few franchises that always help you convey the message you want to get across with your clothing.  I have a lot of luck at Talbot’s and Dillard’s. 
3. Remember your budget.  Fall and winter clothing costs more than spring and summer, so allocate more of your annual budget to those items, and always buy quality.  The more expensive items will usually be worth it in the long run, but don’t over extend yourself.  I never buy “cheap” clothes because I know they’ll come apart in the washer after the first wearing.  Also, I find it more difficult to have the confidence I need in “cheap” clothes.  Now, don’t get me wrong here.  Last winter I found Arthur Levine suits on sale, in my size, marked down from $400 or more to around $40 at Dillard’s.  I bought 6 suits that day, and they still look brand new.  These clothes are not cheap, I just got lucky that day.  This is one reason it pays to go shopping frequently – that’s the only way to run into deals like that.
4. Know your weaknesses.  Some people are great at buying summer clothes but not items for fall, or they buy pants all the time and no tops.  Be aware of your habits and maintain balance.  Do the same with color.  A couple of years ago I decided I had too much black in my closet, but when I went shopping, the only items I was drawn to were black.  I deliberately made myself buy others colors (that coordinated with black.)
5. Arrive early.  If you truly don’t like shopping, don’t go on the weekend!  Saturdays and Sunday afternoons are the busiest times and the most frustrating both for getting parking spaces and for getting around inside the store.  When possible, shop early in the week, and early in the day.
6. Monitor your mood.  Don’t try to shop when you’re hungry, tired, upset, or depressed.  You’ll either not find anything, or end up with buyer’s remorse.  Take breaks when you need to “regroup,” and eat to keep your energy level up.
7. Dress for success.  Shopping success that is. Wear an outfit similar to the one you need to purchase.  If you’re buying a new suit, you can get away with wearing jeans or pants by taking along your pantyhose and a pair of heels.  Be sure to wear makeup and style your hair.  If you look bad or feel bad, you won’t like yourself in anything.
8. If you love it, buy it.  I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had non-buyer’s remorse.  I find the perfect item, but for some reason talk myself out of it.  “Oh, that seems a little too pricey; I’ll wait until it goes on sale.”  Then it’s not available in my size when it goes on sale. 
9. If in doubt, take it home.  I used to have a “policy” that I didn’t buy anything I didn’t absolutely fall in love with at the store.  However, during that period, I had almost no clothes!  Sometimes an outfit will look better, (or worse), under different light or with different shoes or with different accessories - you get the drift.  It’s also a good idea to get a second opinion from your husband, boyfriend, or best friend.  Just make sure the store has a return policy you can abide by.
10. Use the internet.  If you have only the weekends to shop and find yourself frequently frustrated, purchasing items you don’t like just to get out of the store, consider shopping online.  Almost all major retailers now have online services and you can definitely return what you don’t like.  Yes, you will likely have to pay shipping charges, but when you factor in the cost of gas, travel time, and your sanity, it’s probably worth it.

As for the trip itself, whether online or regular brick-and-mortar, remember to take lots of breaks, drink plenty of water, and be prepared to go back to a store if necessary.  You can “hold” items you’re unsure of, and create “wish lists” online.  This could be some valuable “alone” time for you if you treat yourself well and put the fun back in shopping.

Posted under Education, Inspiration, Motivation