Shopping Tips

I think it's safe to say that we all love to shop. But in today's challenging economy, most of us also can use some help when it comes to saving money when we're out shopping for clothes, accessories, home decor items, and just about everything else. We all want nice things, without breaking the bank (or the family budget) to get them. 

So here are some tips that might help on your next shopping foray:

Plan ahead.  You've probably heard the advice about making a list before you go grocery shopping, but the same advice applies to shopping for clothes as well. Almost everyone has bought an impulse item while out shopping, only to get home and feel a tinge of buyer's remorse. So take stock of your wardrobe, make a list of things you really need (not just really want). Then put a priority number beside each item, with the highest priority item #1, then #2, ect. Then see how many of those things will fit into your budget (you may discover that you can live without the $400 snakeskin belt for now!)

Use your list.  A list is only useful if you use it while shopping. We all know how easy it is to get distracted when something catches our eye. Retailers know this, which is why they display items in a way that will catch your attention (and hopefully, your money). So use your list and stay focused on the items you really need. You also might want to leave your best friend at home when you go shopping, as again, the distraction might be unhelpful.

Go for high quality items.  You should always go for quality over flashy when shopping for clothes. Well made, high quality clothes and accessories will last a lot longer, and save you money in the long run. This is especially true for work clothes, because you'll be wearing them more and they'll need to hold up and look good for months or even years.

Try things on.  This seems obvious, but it's amazing how many women buy things without really trying them on. Try them on for fit and comfort, and check how they look from all angles in front of a full-length, three-way mirror. And don't try to fit them for how you want to look in three months (after completing that new diet and exercise program). Buy them for how you look now, and you can always have them re-fitted later if you need to.

Don't jump at every sale.  We all know how tempting it can be to buy something we like that's deeply discounted (and again, the retailers know this). This is another reason why having a list, and sticking to it, is so important. After all, buying something on sale, and only wearing it once or twice (and then donating it to the thrift store a year later) is not really such a bargain in the long run.