Shopping Habits to Break & How to Shop Smarter

We, of all people, can definitely relate to “the love of shopping”. Our closets are overflowing, shoes and handbags are piling high and yet we often find ourselves complaining, “We have nothing to wear!” And yes, we admit that we’re also guilty of making a few out-of-budget purchases more often than planned. In this day and age, we’re constantly surround by a flood of style inspirations, whether it’s on the web via Instagram, Pinterest, or your favorite magazines and celebrity street style, it’s challenging to not get caught up with every “It” piece. Below are a few shopping scenarios and how to get around them.

• Sacrificing Real-Life Things for Fashion: As much as we adore fashion and shopping, let’s be real… What good is it if you can’t make rent, pay your credit card, or even afford to eat? When you have your eyes set on a piece that’s way over budget, simply set aside a little bit every month to eventually buy it upfront and guilt-free! You’ll end up loving and appreciating it much more in the end.

• Items That Don’t Fit: When it comes to an everyday piece that has you thinking it’ll motivate you to get in shape, more often than not, it’s unfortunately going to end up forgotten in the back of your closet. Instead, make sure it comfortably fits your body type, get it altered if it’s a minor adjustment and you really can’t live without it, or just buy something with a stretch that will always be flattering!

SHOP SIMILAR: Replay Denim | Rag & Bone Skinny Capistrano | AG ‘The Legging’ Ankle Jeans

• Buying With The Intent to Return: If you buy something you only kind of like it and have the mentality of “I can always return it,” you really shouldn’t be buying it at all. Instead, only buy pieces you’re totally in love with and know you’ll wear it enough that it’ll essentially pay for itself.

Like these…

 

SHOP: Phillip Lim Pashli Medium Satchel | Tory Burch Parker Street Allena Bag | Moschino Nylon Bucket Bag

• Shopping at Ultra Trendy, Fast Fashion Stores: Sure you’ll have the most trendy items, but you’ll constantly find yourself shopping again in just a month or two when the pieces you previously bought don’t feel as current. Instead, invest in quality pieces.

• Splurging On An Investment Piece: Once you’ve saved up and finally made your purchase, treat it as you would any other large purchases. If you’ve just spent a thousand or two on an investment bag, there’s honestly no reason to buy several other cheaper bags so soon after. Cherish it and show the world!

What are some shopping habits you wish you didn’t do? And share your best tips with us!