Do you have a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? It may be time to learn some smart shopping strategies to avoid closet overload, impulse purchases, and even worse, buyer's remorse.
Because no busy mom wants to add "run to the mall to make a return" to her to-do list, it's a good idea to think each choice through carefully before heading to the register or online checkout.
Personal stylist Elaine Wang Yu of Simply Chic Styling turned her passion for fashion into a career and helps women identify and express their own style without breaking the bank.
To help minimize over-spending and cluttering up your closet, here are 10 questions to ask yourself when you go shopping.
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1. Do I LOVE this piece? Your closet should only be stocked with clothes you really love and make you feel great. "If you don't love a piece, don't buy it," Wang Yu says. "Especially if you already have a closet full of clothes at home."
2. Is the color right for me? "All too often I see clients buying items in beige or cream because it feels safe," she says. "This color generally doesn't add to one's complexion, and it actually detracts from it." Instead, look for colors that enhance your natural beauty, she suggests.
3. Where am I going in this? Every purchase should have a purpose and should fit in with your lifestyle. If you can't think of a place where you'd wear the piece you're considering buying, it probably doesn't make sense for you, according to Wang Yu.
4. Can I wear this piece with at least two different things in my closet? Versatility is key to avoiding a cluttered wardrobe. "Buying clothes that can be worn several different ways means you can wear them more often without feeling bored," the stylist says. Some pieces lend themselves to either being dressed up or dressed down, so consider your options before you splurge.
5. It's on sale at a great price, but am I really going to wear it? Don't buy a piece of clothing just because you found it on the sale rack and think it's a great deal. "If it costs $10 but you never wear it, it's still a waste of money," Wang Yu notes.
6. What will the "cost per wear" of this item be in two years? Invest in wardrobe staples that are classic and can be worn season after season. Doing so means that the cost per wear of a piece goes down. "A classic pair of black pumps or a great fitting blazer are worth the investment because you'll wear them over and over again," explains Wang Yu.
7. Is the fit perfect? Or is it not quite right? I've fallen victim to this, convincing myself that if only I exercised or gave up that late-night snack, that dress would be perfect, but ... "Buying something that you can wear after you lose those five extra pounds doesn't make sense," Wang Yu says. "Also, purchasing something that you feel uncomfortable in will only look awkward if you fidget and fuss while wearing it."
8. Does this piece go with existing items in my closet or do I need to buy additional things to complete the outfit? How many times have you found the perfect dress, only to realize you'd need all new accessories (and shoes!) to go with it? If you're shopping and you find a piece you really like that looks perfect on you, think about the items in your closet that will complete the look. "If you can put an outfit together in your head using the new piece plus existing items from your wardrobe, it's a winner," Wang Yu says.
9. Do I have something just like this at home? This tip applies to men too. If my husband had a nickel for every blue button-down shirt he owns, he could retire! "It's natural to buy the same things over and over again because they make us feel safe," Wang Yu says. "But no one needs 15 pairs of jeans or 10 black turtleneck sweaters. Adding a new color, pattern, or style will freshen up your wardrobe!"
10. Do I really need this? Or is this an impulse buy? Ever hear of retail therapy? Sometimes picking up a little treat for yourself can be uplifting, but there are other ways to boost your spirits. "Generally speaking, impulse purchases lead to bad decisions -- unless you love it or the item has a special quality that will elevate your current wardrobe," the stylist says.
Do you ever ask yourself these questions when you shop?
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