Shopping, for me, is like breathing. Some of my fondest memories include scouring discount racks with friends and waiting in line for hours for crazy flash sales (complete with trying things on in the middle of the store) with my mother and three sisters. Even as a little girl, I “styled” my aunt and routinely selected my dad’s tie. Yet, it wasn’t until fairly recently that I came to realize that shopping and putting together outfits was a skill that I possessed yet others found confusing and frustrating.
In an effort to share some of my tried and true techniques, below you will find a few tips to help you shop like a stylist:
- Be prepared. Before you venture out shopping, take inventory of your closet and make a list. A list will allow you to focus both your efforts and your budget. Also, pack snacks and a bottle of water. Hunger can create frustration and leave you feeling overwhelmed.
- Build relationships in your favorite stores. Make friends with sales people; they can help you find things, alert you to sales and membership programs, as well as introduce you to new brands. When you receive great service, ask for their names or cards. Likewise, when shopping online, always join mailing lists for your favorite sites. Lots of retailers reward their mailing lists with early access to sales and special promotions.
- Just try. How do you know you can’t wear culottes or pull off this season’s loose silhouettes without trying? And give it an honest effort – try a few versions of a style and create outfit pairings. For example, the cropped top of course looks scandalous with your low rise jeans…but, when paired with a high-waisted skirt, it could be your new look! Finally, when something ultimately doesn’t work, remember this motto: “It’s not me, it’s the clothes.” Moving on!
- Create “wish lists.” Many online retailers offer a “wish list” function that allows you to store items you may be considering purchasing. Likewise, when shopping in a store, take pictures with your phone. Wish lists not only allow you to better control your budget by eliminating impulse purchases, but they also help you create a more cohesive wardrobe by ensuring that all of your selections go together.
- Invest in accessories. It always amazes me how a bright pair of pumps can transform jeans and a simple tee into a going-out worthy look, or how a metallic clutch seems to go with just about everything. Don’t overlook the importance of a standout piece of jewelry, a luxe handbag, an amazing shoe, and a beautiful scarf. With even the most basic of staples, a few unique accessories can create a stylish wardrobe.
Please share any of your shopping techniques, I’m always looking to improve my game!
Thanks for reading and Happy Friday! ~Jenn
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