Capsule wardrobe wannabe Part II: Bargain shopping gone bad
If you read my most recent post, you know that I have a bit of work ahead of me as I sift through my closet and reduce it to only the essentials. I have been looking through my current wardrobe and separating out the keepers from the goners, but there is a third category that has begun to emerge... the what the hell was I thinking pile. One thing these clothes have in common: they were all bargains. I can admit, that I am often blinded by a great deal. Sometimes I come home with a real steal, only to realize I have something similar already hanging in my closet. It is thrilling to find a great deal, but is it really a bargain if you don't get much use out of it? The answer is no. Just because a designer bodysuit is on sale for less than $50.00, does not mean you need it. If you're like me and have a hard time fighting the urge to bring home bags full of bargains, then maybe these few guidelines will help you be a more savvy shopper.
Rule #1. Ask yourself this question: If this was full price would I still want it? The olive green bodysuit I mentioned above would not have passed this test. I wasn't in the market for a bodysuit, nevermind a green one with a high neck. It is important to separate the excitement of finding a fantastic discount from the excitement of finding a must-have item. Been searching for a pair of black suede booties and you just spotted them at TJ. Maxx? Go for it! Found a pair of jeans that are over half off, but you came for shoes. Give it a second thought.
Rule #2. Does it fit well? Okay, so you found a gorgeous pair of jeans for over 40% off. Do they fit you well? If they are gaping open above your behind, the length is off, or the fit just doesn't flatter you like it should, then step away. Yes you can always tailor them to fit you better, but ask yourself if you will actually follow through on that or if they will just sit in your closet, sad and unworn. If you are truly committed to making it work, find out how much it will be to tailor them. A savings of $60 dollars can be negated if the price for alterations is steep. If all of this checks out, I say grab 'em and get yourself a fantastic tailor ASAP and rock those bargain jeans with pride, knowing you saved yourself some cash.
Rule #3. Don't waste money on things you already have. Pretty simple right? Wrong. I can't tell you how many times I've bought something at a discount only to be putting it away and realize I have something exactly like it. Don't get me wrong, there are certain things that every girl needs two of.. a purple cashmere sweater is not one of them. SMH. Ask yourself this question before you swipe that plastic. Do I have something in my wardrobe that already serves this purpose? If the answer is yes, then ask yourself what drew you to the item. Is it more exciting or trendy than what you already own? If not, 'fahgettaboutit.
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Rule #4 Take photos of your outfits. Do I really need to explain this one? This will help you understand what looks good on you and what you already own. Pay specific attention to pieces that you seem to wear very often and feel great in. Make sure you know the designer, the material, and what it is about it that makes you feel like a babe. Keep that designer in mind when you're looking for additions to your wardrobe. Also keep in mind whether, your body is most flattered by a certain style such as crew-neck vs V-neck. And for the love of God, when you find a gorgeous Cloth & Stone crew-neck top, remind yourself that you look like a linebacker in crew-necks.
Rule #5 Keep a running list of things you need/want. Keep it on your phone or in a planner. When you're out shopping just for fun, refer to the list before you make any purchases. If the item isn't on the want or need list, then you probably haven't been lusting over it for very long. Impulse buys are hard to prevent, but at the very least make sure to keep your receipt and all tags. After a week, take a look at the item, when your impulse buy beer goggles are off. Do you still love it? If not, you know what to do.
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These rules are easier said than done. Let us know what rules you have to keep your shopping in check.