How to become a savvy shopper

During my years of middle school I used to dread going shopping! However after I learned a few tricks from my Image Consultant mom I have grown to enjoy shopping and I have grown to be a . . . great shopper and a savvy shopper as well! My motto has become
“Look like a million without spending one!”

Here are a few tips I would like to share with you!


Shopping can be a bewildering experience, there are dozen of different decisions to make and little time in which to make them, however, after you read this article, you will learn just as I have
how to make shopping fun,
how to be a savvy shopper and
how to buy with a goal in mind.

By following these tips, little by little, your wardrobe will achieve an image that will be consistent to the message you want to send to the world (please visit again to read my next blog about Personality), and you will also learn to buy only what you need.

1. Window Shop. Before you actually go out to spend your money; spend a little time window shopping and looking through fashion magazines and newspaper ads. This will give you an idea of what’s available and how to incorporate some of the new styles and colors into what you currently own.

2. Make a list of what you need and include notes to remind yourself of details (sweater must go with purple pants and orange skirt). Or a belt to get more “mileage” from that white shirt…etc.

3. Inventory. Take stock of the items in your closet that you plan to keep. Your new purchases should work with these. If you’re buying an item to go specifically with something you already have, bring it along with you. That way you’ll be sure it’s right. Also bring the kind of shoes you’ll be wearing. It’s hard to judge if an item is flattering without the right shoes and if you shop for prom dress or school dance dresses is it hard to judge if you are wearing your favorite sneakers.

4. Quality. When you buy major items such as coats, jackets, suits and raincoats, invest in quality merchandise. Finer fabrics and good styling last longer and look better. Spend less on a few trendy items to update your look such as tights, hats, and costume jewelry because these may go out of fashion next season and it won’t be a great loss to buy another set later.

5. Don’t match color. It can be frustrating trying to match a color exactly. Dyes differ even from the same manufacturer. Combine your colors tonally; that is, go a shade or two lighter or darker or choose a contrasting color.

6. Sizes. Can be very disappointing if you do not try on something and you make a decision to buy an item, just because you think you know your size. Each manufacturer has a different sizing.

7. Avoid alterations. If possible, avoid purchases that need extensive alterations. Alterations are expensive and they usually affect the basic style of the garment. Slight alterations such as hems, shortening of sleeves and nipping in of waistbands; usually pose no problem.

8. Fabric Care. Most garments have a label and hang tag that tell what the fabric is made of and how to care for it. Read them carefully. It’s a good idea to know the symbols of the international cleaning code. Remember that if a garment must be dry-cleaned, it can become a significant added expense, especially if you expect to wear it frequently.

9. Check Quality. Unless marked “as-is,” you’re entitled to a perfect garment. Before you pay for your selection, make sure it has all its buttons (sewn securely), belts, or other accessories. Check that the zipper slides smoothly, and that hooks and eyes are all intact. Seams and hems should be in perfect condition.

10. Ask about the store’s return or exchange policy. If you can’t get a cash refund, or worse, if the sale is final, be especially sure you’re making the right choice. Always keep your receipt in case you have a complaint.

11. Choose a store and make it your favorite . We all know the feel of stumbling around a huge department store. Our eyes get pulled into dozen directions by many floors and many exciting floor displays. Soon we forget what we really need to buy. Instead, if we know the store, we can go directly to the floor that offers the item we are shopping for, we will save time and money and we will feel victorious for the ‘conquest’ we end up bringing home!!

12. Consider YOU. When buying a new garment, consider how it will suit YOU: will it flatter your Body Type?…, Will it enhance your Skin Coloring? Will it exude your true Personality Type???. Remember.. even if an item is a great buy because is on sale, if it will not suit YOU, it will not be a great buy after all!!!

13 Be Sure. Finally buy an item, only if it passes the test of this checklist; if you have really fallen in love with it, if you really need it, and if it really suits you. If you are not sure you probably do not really need it or you don’t really like it. It is easier to put something on hold than buying and then returning it . It will save you time and money in gas.