I listed five common shopping mistakes in my last post that I happen to see often and particularly around this time of the year – they were:
1. Looking unkempt before heading off on a shopping trip as this can cause you to be more critical of yourself.
2. Not trying garments and accessories on before purchasing which can be costly while potentially leaving you with a wardrobe full of ill fitting and unflattering items.
3. Only taking one size of everything into the changing room which can cost you in time and energy.
4. Buying designer label clothes over what really works perfectly for you and all your physical aspects and then finding you never wear it.
5. Buying something because it’s ‘different’ and then regretting it later rather than starting with a small item first to gradually change style direction.
The following three are equally as common, and I see them often. It’s good to be aware and really conscious when we’re out shopping any time of the year.
1.Buying those ‘it’ll do’ items: When we buy what we really don’t love and ‘things’ that will just do, it will more than likely never get used. Your basic items can be a little more in this category if you’re really time poor and hate shopping. For example, pieces that are great for layering like camisoles, tanks, short & long sleeve tee’s. You could get away with the classic every season button down shirt in neutrals, leather belts, bags and pumps to match throughout your wardrobe also in neutrals.
2. Buying clothes based on the size and not the fit: Australian sizing is all over the place as we’re all well aware. If something looks great on you, is a fabulous fit but you don’t like the number on the tag, cut it out when you get home. Tight and overly fitted garments are often a lot less flattering on and won’t look as expensive or of good quality. Nobody will know about the size and you’ll feel more lovely when something fits and drapes your body beautifully – ladies, don’t be so hard on yourselves!
3. Feeling pressured by the sales staff: Most retail outlets set a staff budget for the day or week. This means the staff are quite often under pressure themselves to sell sell sell!! Many of my clients complain to me about the pressure they’ve experienced in the stores and consequently own lots of clothes that I end up removing. Turnover and the bottom line is number one in the sales environment. It’s always a much more pleasant experience when you’ve found the right thing for yourself but with great customer service from a friendly staff member.
