Economical shopping: dress smartly

2024 Author: James Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 14:00

You leave a clothing store with a dozen bags in your hands and mentally figure out how to survive until your next paycheck. Familiar situation? In shops, we sometimes lose our composure, and later we regret it. And it would be fine if spontaneous purchases were always successful. Unfortunately, usually because of these impulses, a heap of unnecessary things grows in the closet, which either do not fit together or do not suit you at all. There is a way out: heed the advice of shopping consultants. Economy shopping can help you save money and replenish your wardrobe.

Making a shopping list

A good wardrobe is one that will allow you to look new every day with a minimum of things. Stylists and shopping specialists unanimously repeat this.

“It is enough to acquire basic toiletry items that can be easily combined with each other,” says stylist Galina Astafieva. - If things are made of high-quality fabrics and fit well on you, they will last more than one season. And if you also take into account the compatibility of colors, then, perhaps, you can not strain about clothes for a long time.

So, here is a list of the most essential clothing items. Take note when planning acquisitions.

- First of all, this is a jacket, skirt and trousers, which can be part of one suit, - continues Galina Astafieva. - It is best to choose things in a neutral color without a pronounced fabric pattern. If you are a fan of classic style, try experimenting with tweed - this material is out of fashion trends. Do you prefer smart-casual or sporty style? Choose low-key clothing with a comfortable cut - blazers, straight skirts, trousers in dark or beige corduroy.

Jeans should be mentioned separately. In them you can go to the office (of course, if you do not work in a bank with a strict dress code), on a date, or go on a picnic with friends. Combining them with different things (with a satin top, white shirt or warm sweater), you can create different looks, spending a minimum of time and money. The best option is blue or dark blue without decorative holes, bright embroidery and rhinestones. Fading is acceptable, but not too noticeable. As for the cut, choose either the classic straight or slightly flared from the knee. Narrow pipes are fine too, but only if you can boast slender legs.

Several blouses are definitely needed: austere white, less formal colored and "dressy": with flounces, catchy buttons or an original collar. You need at least two tops: one simple (for example, with thin straps) and one in satin, suitable for a romantic rendezvous. Don't forget the turtleneck too! In winter, this thing will perfectly warm you both at work and during gatherings in a cafe. If you're into feminine pieces, you can replace the turtleneck with an elegant cardigan with satin ribbons. Under such a cardigan, you can wear both a blouse and a top, or even an ordinary white T-shirt.

According to stylists, a Russian woman's wardrobe must have two winter coats (smart and for every day), a jacket, a raincoat and a light parka. A fur coat is optional, but if you have purchased a luxurious fur new thing, it makes sense to abandon the coat altogether, replacing it with a fitted jacket with a detachable lining. Such transforming models are suitable for both winter and autumn. It is best to choose non-marking clothing in dark colors. Otherwise, there is a chance to go broke at dry cleaners.

Getting ready to go "on business"

Sometimes you buy a thing, and in a nearby store you find almost the same thing, only half the price. Or you go shopping all day and still can't find your clothes. Or you buy something completely different from what you wanted, succumbing to the persuasion of the saleswoman … To once and for all protect yourself from such turns, take note of a few rules.

1. Where to go shopping?

The most convenient option is a large shopping center, where a variety of brands are collected, ranging from inexpensive youth brands to luxury ones. The advantages are obvious - you can compare the collections of different brands and choose what is more to your liking.

2. When to go shopping?

The best time is in the mornings on weekdays, but not all of us have free time during these hours. If you are one of the chronically busy girls who work from 9 to 9, set aside the first half of Saturday or Sunday for shops. The coolness of the sales area and the attention of the consultants will be your reward for getting up early, and after shopping you can reward yourself with a delicious lunch or cocktail! And also, be careful: you shouldn't buy clothes during your period - the figure swells slightly, and things sit differently. Psychologists also disapprove of shopping in times of depression - most likely, you will not cheer yourself up, but will waste money, which can cause even more dissatisfaction with yourself.

3. How to dress?

- First of all, it is convenient! - says stylist Galina Rudneva. - Put aside stilettos and tight dresses, the best option is loose jeans or trousers and light sneakers that let your feet breathe. If you are going to buy a blouse for a particular skirt, you can take this skirt with you and change in the fitting room. So you will immediately determine how well things go together and make the right decision. And one more thing: do not paint too brightly when going shopping. If you inadvertently stain something that doesn't fit you with lipstick, you will most likely have to pay for it.

4. Who should you go with?

One. So your chances of getting something worthwhile are significantly increased, because no one will rush you, give useless advice and in every possible way distract you from looking at clothes.

5. How much money should I take with me?

Exactly as much as you plan to spend. To better understand the cost of clothes, before shopping, go to the sites of your favorite brands or online stores and find out the approximate prices. You can also make a test run through the boutiques - to better examine the available assortment and remember the cost of the things you like. In any case, plan how much and what you are ready to spend. This will save you from unnecessary expenses and "holes" in the budget.