fashion feed

Use caution when shopping sales that you don't get caught up in the "thrill of the deal" and lose focus on whether or not the items will be a truly valuable addition to your current wardrobe. Think of the shirt you got this great deal on for $8.99; yet this fact surprises no one because the shirt actually looks like it’s only worth about $8.99. Let face it. Bad color choices and ill-fitting garments have all been purchased in these "thrill of the deal" moments. I am all for being a bargain-hunter and scouring the sale racks for discounted deals on quality merchandise; but quite frankly good intentions have gotten the best of us all while bargain-hunting. A better strategy, when you see something you genuinely like, yet are feeling a bit of sticker shock from the price; wait it out. I am a huge proponent of this strategy and have found that it works quite frequently, especially during the winter season. Retailers typically shy away from having both spring and winter clothes on display. Due to this, in February when Spring collections go on display, winter merchandise goes on sale. Winter coats and boots hits the sales rack in a major way; usually at discount levels upwards of 40%. The best things come to those who wait.

2.) You are hopelessly obsessed with the wrong size.

This again may be associated from the emotional buzz we get from shopping. "It would be so perfect if only...", if you can finish that sentence you don't need to be buying it. Reasons such as "if I just lost 5 pounds" or "if only I wore it un-buttoned" are not good arguments for purchase. Given my experience as a wardrobe consultant, I can size up the average woman in about two minutes. Typically in my consultations I'll ask my clients what size they wear. Quite often, the size my client reveals differs from my visual assessment. Most of my clients would say their biggest dillema is learning to dress to flatter their figure. After reviewing, previous clothing purchases with clients, I often discover that they are purchasing flattering silhouettes yet simply in the wrong sizes. Women are habitually known for wearing the incorrect size - whether it is bigger or smaller. The fault of course is not entirely of the consumer. One size for a particular apparel brand can be a completely different size for another brand. I have witnessed several women try on item after item of clothing, only to come out of the fitting room and reluctantly announce that nothing fits properly. In many of these circumstances, the client has simply neglected to try on more than one size. It is imperative to nix obsessions about sizes and focus on the actual fit of the garment.

3.) You can only see yourself wearing it in a fantasy situation.
You know it's the perfect dress; the trouble is you just haven't figured out exactly what it's perfect for. I'm reminded of a friend who found the perfect wedding dress, long before she accepted a wedding engagement or met someone to be the presumable groom for that matter. I admit the example is a bit far-fetched, but the truth of the matter is that my friend purchased this wedding gown based on a fantasy situation. I'm not doubting the fact that she'll get married; however when she does in fact marry it's very possible that her style, her size and her overall "fantasy" of the wedding may all have greatly changed. Purchase items that fit into your current reality.

4.) You fail to see the value of accessories.
Nothing pulls together an outfit quite like accessories. Accessories offer an easy way to create a modern, versatile wardrobe. A sparkling necklace, a silky scarf or a shiny metal belt buckle can dress an outfit up or down, take a look from day to night, or change it from office professional to night on the town. Best of all, accessories allow you to personalize your outfit and display your unique style. When your wardrobe begins feeling drab and tired, consider purchasing new accessories to punch up current items rather than simply buying new clothes.

5.) You think you're too good for Old Navy.
No one, I repeat, no one is above a $7 tank top. Basic tees and tanks just happen to be the bread and butter of low-priced clothing stores like Old Navy and H&M. Forgive me; there are some higher-end labels that do basics extremely well such as Vince, Armani, C&C, and Donna Karen. However if ever a wardrobe was lacking the frequently coveted scoop neck tanks and v-neck tees, there are no excuses. Stores like Old Navy and H&M offer a consistent supply of these basics in various colors and fits. If Old Navy is too unbecoming, shop American Apparel.

6.) You don't think you're good enough for Bergdorf Goodman.
Not shopping at a store because it's hopelessly out of your price rage - understandable. Not visiting? Downright disgraceful. News flash, the next "it" trends are not unveiled at Wal-Mart. They are fashioned and launched at high-end retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman and Barney's. Shopping is not just about buying, it's also about research. Stores like Bergdorf, Barneys, Neimans and Saks are all mini dossiers for trend setting designers like Zac Posen and Derek Lam. Since high-end retailers tend to release season collections early, these stores provide important insight on upcoming prominent trends. Still feeling a little nervous about visiting high-end retailers? Shop their respective websites.

7.) You drop off your old clothes at Goodwill; but never look to see what others are dropping off.
Some of my most acclaimed pieces are from goodwill and thrift stores. When you realize that many of the items in vintage stores were found at Goodwill; the value of these stores becomes elementary. Fashion is a revolving door. We have witnessed fashion trends go "in" and "out" from decade to decade, while classic styles have withstood the changing times of several different decades. A few things to be on the lookout for include: anything cashmere, vintage jewelry such as broaches and clip-on earrings, cocktail and evening dresses, silk scarves, and tailored pieces. Whether it is goodwill, a thrift store, or a vintage shop, keen eyes can find some amazing pieces at these stores.

Happy Shopping!
Apresenta

Image credit: http://www.mimifroufrou.com/scentedsalamander/images/Shopping%20Logo%20TSS.jpg