Shopping Tips

Because shopping is a learned skilled.

With a full spring social calendar, all I want to do is buy a brand new outfit for every social event I have planned. As an outfit planner who doesn't always love the idea of rewearing outfits, this is how I freshen up my looks without going completely rogue.

Typically when I buy, I try my hardest to invest in pieces that are rewearable and versatile. Ones I can change up no matter the season or social event.

Skirts take up a big portion of my closet because I have always found them to be a reliable piece when it comes to mixing things up. Not to be a total cliche but you really can "dress them up or dress them down". I almost always end up topping it off with a bulky sweater or tshirt when I'm needing a more casual look. Or a blousy top or silky tank top when I need something more dressy. Regardless of what shirt I wear, I almost always add chunky boots to this look or one of my many kitten heels.

The combinations are endless because I know what I like and what works for me.

Find a cut, length, color, etc. that works for you and run with it.

If you love the way you look in a certain style of dress, top, jean, pant, skirt, or whatever don't be ashamed of filling your closet with it. You know you love the way you look in it so you know you will actually wear it. When I'm shopping and I have to try and convince myself to branch out and buy something, I know I won't actually wear it. Because I know when it all boils down to it and I'm standing infront of my closet getting ready, I am not picking the random dress I forced myself to buy even because it's on trend with the tags still attached. I am gonna go for the one that is in the cut that I know flatters me.

Now I didn't say don't diversify your wardrobe. Don't let yourself get caught up in a shopping rut where you buy the same exact thing in every single color. Be excited to branch out and try something new. Designers and brands are constantly refreshing classic pieces in order to keep up with the fashions of today. Allow yourself the chance to combine what you know you will love with what you didn't know you love.

Invest in the trend because you know you like it, not because you think you should like it.

This piece of advice is something I have to tell myself every time I walk into a store. Sometimes the merchandising really gets to me and I believe that a trend is on my side when it in fact is not. You know in your heart of hearts whether or not you actually love something enough to add it to your wardrobe. A trend is a risk that can haunt you forever. Take time to consider whether or not you really want to add to cart. On the other hand, when you do love love love a trend so much, it'll be in your outfit repertoire even when the trend goes out of fashion because it is your style.

Ask other people what they think. Obviously this one goes without saying. I think as women we are wired to seek the approval of our friends no matter what we are committing to (boys, clothes, vacation spots, jobs, etc.). I don't think this is a bad trait women rely on. Sometimes our friends know us better than we know ourselves, especially when we may be about to make an impulsive decision. However, know who to ask and know when to not listen.