We’ve all been there. Staring down that coveted item in the store wondering, “Should I? Shouldn’t I?” Shopping can be exhilarating, yet daunting all at the same time. That’s why I’m here – To demystify the science of shopping.
Shopping is truly a science. It’s quite impossible to shop haphazardly and then expect to experience “purchase satisfaction”. It’s almost the equivalent of trying to find a quality guy at the bar after one to many drinks. Get my drift? Chances are slim-to-none that ‘ole decision-making skills will actually snag you a winner. So let’s sober up and get shopping!
Tip numero uno: Do not shop on an empty stomach. Do not shop on a full stomach. Hunger can cause rushed decisions and gluttony (yes, I said it) can induce lethargy. Eat a moderate meal, bring bottled water, and get your shop on!
Tip numero dos: Opt to shop during non-primetime hours. I prefer Monday or Tuesday mornings, as they’re typically crowd-free. Large crowds can cause anxiety and create unwanted distractions!
Tip numero tres: Know thyself. You know yourself better than anyone. Your style, preferred textures, silhouettes – Know yourself and be yourself. I don’t dress for anyone but me. Steer clear of the comparison game too. Your personal style should exude you and no one else!
Tip numero quatro: Calculate your “cost per wear” (or CPW) ratio prior to purchasing an item. CPW is simply the cost divided by the estimated number of days you’ll actually wear an item. For instance, say you’ve found a pair of $200 J Brand jeans that fit like a glove. Not only do they look smashing, but the quality is impeccable and the cut will span several seasons. Calculate $200/150 wears over the next year. That’s $1.33 per wear! Alternatively, say you purchase a top at Forever 21 that’s only “so so”, but justify the piece because it’s on sale for $15. Wear it only a measly 3 times and that shirt has cost you $5 per wear! See where I’m headed with this? So the moral of the story is “do the math”. It’ll save you money in the long run!
Tip numero cinco: Think staple items. This concept goes hand-in-hand with CPW, but with additional practicalities. In my book every woman needs the following “staple items” – Black blazer, tatter-free dark-wash jeans, black matte pumps, LBD, neutral colored handbag, white button-down blouse, and black dress pants. These “eternal trend” pieces can be easily mixed/matched and will be your saving grace during a fashion crisis!
Happy shopping ladies!
Blair is a self-proclaimed undercover nerd from Grand Rapids, Michigan. You’ll most likely find her on the web as the Social Media Director for Design 1 Salon Spa, Beauty Editor at Chictopia.com, and writing her personal style blog over at “Love, Blair”. While offline she loves to attend concerts, travel (preferably abroad), and relax with her husband Ross. Blair also holds a BA in Communication and MA in Human Services Counseling, both from Regent University.
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LOVE your price per wear calculation! WOW. what a great idea.