Do you ever come home after a shopping spree with a bag full of new clothes, but with nothing that you actually need or intended to buy? Do you have a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear? Do you always feel guilty after you’ve gone clothes shopping because you have spent too much?
If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions then you’re in need of some shopping spree saving. With the help of fancydressmania.co.uk we’ve put together a list of shopping tips every lady needs to know before they hit the high street! Stick to them and buyers remorse will be a thing of the past.
Shop with a plan
Know exactly what you need and how much you can spend, then write it down and create a budget. This way you won’t overspend and be tempted to buy something you don’t really need.
Pay with cash
It’s a fact you spend more money when you swipe. A 2008 study found that physically handing over money triggers an emotional pain that actually helps to deter spending, while swiping doesn’t. As a result, the study found that cash discourages spending whereas plastic encourages it.
Buy Basic
When it comes to spending money on fashion, focus on all of the basic looks. Buy clothes that are timeless and coordinate well. A neutral pencil skirt will be fashionable for years to come and can be updated for the seasons with a fashionable new top.
Shop Online
Save money by shopping online. If you are a fashionista on a budget, check online before you splurge on your wardrobe. There are websites dedicated to deals and coupons that can save you serious cash on clothes by your favourite designers. Check out https://www.raise.com/coupons/macys for various deals, discounts and, yep, coupons for Macy’s department store, for instance.
Consider The Type of Care
Consider the type of care that a garment requires before purchasing it. If you get something that is dry clean or hand wash only, you might either end up with a huge dry cleaning bill, ruining it, or worse – never using it!
Go Timeless
When purchasing jeans, go for a timeless look. For example, classic straight leg jeans never go out of style. Opt for either of these styles in either a dark or slightly faded denim to remain in style throughout the years. By opting for these styles, you will always be in style no matter the current fashion.
Shop with Friends
Go shopping with friends and help each other pick out clothes. Your friends can be your best resource when it comes to choosing the right outfits to wear. They are the ones who are going to tell you if that green dress you really want actually makes you look like a giant walking bogey.
Be Unique
Do not be afraid to be unique. Uniqueness is a good thing. You should never try to hide it. However, before you make your purchase ask yourself if the piece you’re buying is versatile and how many times will you actually wear it to avoid wasting money on a one time outfit wonder.
Know Your Body Type
Keep your figure in mind when purchasing clothing. While you may like something you see on the rack, that particular item may not look great on you; instead, think about what your best feature is and try to enhance it. For example if you have great legs, show them off with a short skirt or a pair of killer high heels. If you have a bootylicious bum, don’t try to hide in frumpy clothes, show off your enviable curves in a chic jumpsuit or a well-fitted pencil skirt. Playing up your assets is the best way to create a look that flatters you.
Do a Clothes Swap
Remember the saying ‘one man’s junk is another man’s treasure’ – this is true of clothes too. If you don’t have much money for clothes, let friends know and arrange a clothes swapping night where you can swap you unwanted garments for somebody else’s pre-loved items and potentially walk away with a whole new wardrobe without spending a penny.
Invest in Key Pieces
Every wardrobe should have a few key pieces. The little black dress is a classic for good reason. A well-fitted white blouse is versatile and flattering. A tailored suit is perfect for serious business. These items are ones you shouldn’t be afraid to spend a little extra on, as they are timeless classics that last beyond the changing fashion trends.
Don’t Be Swayed By The Magazines
You do not have to get the exact same wardrobe that’s in all of the magazines. Just look at clothes that are similar to the fashion that’s in style and DIY. This way you don’t have to waste money on expensive outfits that will be out of fashion before you can blink.
Avoid Fashion Fads
Reiterating the above point – if you have a limited budget for clothes, avoid buying clothes that are trendy and will only last you for a season. Fashion fads quickly go out of style, and you will be stuck with clothes that will make you feel like yesterday’s fashion queen. Stick with the classic looks that are timeless.
Get tips from couture shows
Couture is not always meant to be worn. It is fashion as art. However, very often certain themes, colours and silhouettes make their way from couture to your local stores, so get a jump on everyone else and get an idea for what is coming by checking out couture shows.
AND more importantly -HAVE FUN SHOPPING!