Seven Holiday Shopping Tips

Do you really need it? I have a rule that I always follow when I am out shopping. If you can't think of three ways to wear it, then leave it! Any item that I choose to wear, except for special occasions, I think of three ways to wear it on the spot. Rather if it is casual, business casual, or dressy. This will prevent you from being a compulsive shopper.

Do you have anything similar? If it isn't basic essentials, such as jeans or t-shirts, then you may not need it. If you already have five black blazers, then leave the sixth. I don't care if the pockets have a leather trim on it. The last thing you need is to clutter your closet with more items you already own.

This rule fits into the first rule. If you are not able to think of three ways to wear it on the spot, then  put it on hold. Most stores will put items on hold until closing time. This gives you time to walk around and think about it, possibly finding other alternatives. If by the end of your shopping trip you can't think of more than one way to wear it, then leave it.

If you are still stumped, Google image the item or similar look. Such as "Sequin top outfit" "Green skirt outfit", you will be amazed at the amount of images that pop up and that you can get inspiration from.

 Quality over quantity is a rule that you hear throughout life. This rule can sometimes be a little grey when it comes to fashion. Mainly because many people think that the price of an item determines the quality. This is wrong in most cases. In the fashion industry, the price point is usually determined by the brand name and then quality. 

Many people think spending $400 on a heel is a better option than spending $400 on four pairs of heels, that may be better quality. To make this decision, I would stick to a brand that I know or do research, review the material it is made out of, and the stitching. I follow this rule from shoes to clothing. Make sure to be fair. If you want a real leather jacket, the price should be fair. Again Google similar items if you are not sure.

The holidays mean many sales. Some of the sales can be pointless. They flash signs, send emails, and tell us that this is a once in a year thing. In few cases, yes, but for fashion not so much. Usually the sale that you see during the holiday's are sales that may take place throughout the year as well. Ask yourself if you have seen a similar sale with the store or if it is actually worth your time? I like to add myself to the email list of my favorite store, so I am able to go back and search for past sales.

Also make sure to read the fine print with sales. They may say 50% off, but you have to spend a certain amount. You will see stores advertise "$50 Off once you spend $250". When all you see is $50 off. Ask yourself would you go into that store to buy all of those things if it wasn't for the $50 off? You are still spending $200 on items that you probably didn't know you wanted until you went. Then you are stuck with items you thought you loved and out of $200. When you could've spent your $200 in multiple stores with better deals on items you needed.

 The clearance rack is also my go to whenever I hit the mall.  I get the most deals and best items hidden within the clearance rack. Don't be afraid to look!

 Plan, plan, plan! They say don't go into a grocery store hungry. Well don't go into the mall without a plan. I know sometimes we don't know what we want until we see it, but most times we know what are looking for. Either outfits you were inspired by, a seasonal change, or a replenish after a closet clean out. Go into the mall with goal items you are looking for and you will more than likely come out on top. Again we will always see things we want, but if you follow the first rule you should be fine.

Having a budget is the best thing you can do when you shop. Say to yourself "I want to spend $50 on denim jeans today and $100 on sweaters". This doesn't mean that you have to go into the store with a calculator, but it does mean to check your price points and know what sales are best for you. This will also keep you out of stores that you know will be out of your budget. If you know you stay within budget at Nordstroms and not Saks, then stay in Nordstoms.

This is self explanatory. You have your plan and budget, yet you are wandering into stores that have nothing to do with your plan. If you have already accomplished your goal with shopping for the day, yet have extra cash to spend, then you can go into other stores. Just be careful when you wander off, because you will end up wanting things that you didn't know existed. This will make you purchase items and possibly go over budget. Stay focused and stick to your plan. Follow the three time wear rule.

My final tip is to use cash. I've been a fraud analyst for over three years and I have seen my share of credit card scams. The holiday's is the best time for your card information to get hacked. If you are not using a credit card, I suggest you use cash as much as possible when shopping during the holiday's. You can also purchase a prepaid card, if you are using credit and just as paranoid as me. Just remember if you decide to use a prepaid card, to use it within that day or get the cash to avoid losing it. 

Cash is also a tool I use when I am on a budget. Leave the cards at home and take only the cash you wanted to spend shopping. That way you know you won't go over. I tend to take about $50 extra in cash, just in case of emergencies and tax on items. Again, if you see an item, yet you don't have the money for it with you, put it on hold to go home and  get more cash. You would only do it if you feel it is worth it.

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!

Image: Google