Shopping with a strategy…
Happy Thanksgiving week! How is it that the holidays are upon us again?
I ventured out to the mall late yesterday (mainly to make a return), and all the crowds for sales got me thinking about how we get sucked into the craziness of the holiday sale shopping. So I thought to share some thoughts on strategizing for the content of your wardrobe.
A good sale isn’t always good for you
While there are so many great sales for Black Friday weekend and it can be the best time to grab a bunch of stuff at a discount. But just because they are good sales doesn’t mean you have to go for them all. How many of these things do we really NEED? I personally own more sweaters than I really need, sadly because they were on sale at the time, and they were cute sweaters. But c’mon, I’m in Southern California where its pretty much summer year round, and I strategically try not travel out of state in the "colder" months of the year (…cue the guilt trips from my siblings in the mid west and east coast. LOL!). How many cute sweaters do I really need? I’ve found over the years that the answer is “very few”, and they take up too much space in my wardrobe anyway. Less can be more ;)
Make practical purchases for your wardrobe
This means being somewhat organized - not necessarily my strongest suit to be honest, but when it comes to something I need for my wardrobe, I can make it happen. Ahead of the big sales, keep a list (or shopping cart wish lists at your favorite stores) for basic items you need for your wardrobe. Perhaps some of your go-to items are getting worn out and need replacement? Make that list ahead of time so you can tackle your list head on, without feeling too overwhelmed and distracted by other sales.
Camisoles and T-shirts: I love graphic t-shirts and often forget how far a basic t-shirt goes with style. Grab some in your favorite colors, but don’t forget the always faithful basic black and white, easy adds to your ensemble whether dressed up or down.
Pants: Jeans and slacks in your favorite style(s). My go-to pants for work, which comes in numerous colors, textures and fits is the Banana Republic Sloan Pant. Great quality and best grabbed on sale!
Cover-ups, Cardigans and Blazers: Whatever your style or day to day is like, its good to have a couple these around. If you’re a west-coaster like me, light cardigans and are great for work and play.
Shoes: My new favorites are loafers. For example, I snagged a pair of 1901 Reenie Loafer this week, Practical, comfortable and a little flair.
Jewelry: If you wear jewelry, you may have a pair that you wear daily, and only switch out on special occasions. Sometimes, my version of statement jewelry is a unique pair of studs , which I typically find at the Kate Spade Surprise Sale. You may also find some at other retailers, and sometimes cheaper, for example, these Mismatched Studs available at Nordstrom Rack.
Also, don’t forget to support your local small businesses this #smallbusinesssaturday. A number of my fashion finds have been from Jane.com.
Be a Blessing
The holiday season is a great time to review your lot, figure out what you don’t need (and is still in good shape), and use it as an opportunity to give to those in need. If you have items in your wardrobe that haven't been worn in a year or two, and your reaction when look at it doesn’t scream “I will wear this again soon”, then it may be time for it to find another home. Find ways to donate clothing and accessories to local charities in your community.
~ Wumi Wong