There are times when I crave a really good shopping spree. I think when you work retail or in an environment surrounded by clothes; you either become hyper-particular about your tastes and reduce your intake, OR you get excited about the constant barrage of new product and end up buying. While I’m lucky that being around clothes and shopping for other people curbs my appetite for purchasing, I’m not immune to the charms of beautiful insta-stars or the great street style pics that are coming out of New York, Milan, and now Paris Fashion Weeks.
BUT – I read a really good quote on Pinterest which stops any thoughts of shopping incessantly in its tracks and I wanted to share it: “It’s not a good deal if you don’t need it.”
Truth.
- So here’s what I do when I find myself wanting to completely overhaul my wardrobe for no reason other than that the powers of psychological marketing got to me.
- I think of everything I own – like, really think about it; I count how many pairs of jeans I have, how many white shirts, how many sweaters, etc. – and in about 3 minutes realize that I actually don’t need anything else.
- I reference my list. If I’m going to buy something, I try to at least make it something I need.
- I window shop and try items on, then put it all back – this is akin to shopping online and leaving your cart full then logging out. I’m sure that works too. Sometimes you realize you don’t actually need anything, you just want to see what’s out there.
- I set aside about 30 minutes to shop my closet, using social media, or advertorials as inspiration. (More on this here)
- If I really just want to spend money or treat myself, I check consignment or vintage shops, and look for an accessory. ONE accessory – usually jewelry, because it’s small, doesn’t take up space, and has more wear power than shoes or bags.
- I go to my “Cool Places” Pinterest board and remind myself that I’d rather spend my money on travel adventures.
Does this random craving to shop ever happen to you? Do you resist or give in?
