The Downside To Shopping

Sigh, there is unfortunately such a thing: Buyer’s Remorse.

Buyer’s Remorse (BR) can be defined (by the ever so reliant Wikipedia) as a sense of regret after having made a purchase... it may stem from fear of making the wrong choice, of guilt of over extravagance, or of suspecting having been ‘snowed’ by a sales associate.

Having suffered from BR many a time in my shopping life (I bought that bright green fur collar because....?), I feel like I should share some wisdom so that you too can avoid the hypothetical, scary, metallic, purple, puffy jacket in your closet.

1) Make sure that you’ve thoroughly researched what you’re willing to invest your money in (especially if it’s a large purchase).  This could mean looking online (eBay can often save you some money- but don’t forget to include shipping costs into the equation), and many websites have forums or reviews from other buyers. Look at other retailers and get to know the sales assistants who work in these stores- they will be more than willing to tell you about their best sellers, the products that people often overlook, different ways to wear them and (if you’re lucky enough) any upcoming sales.

2) If you are unsure about a particular process- seek conformation from others.  My mum is really good at this (even though I tend to ignore her thoughts if she doesn’t appreciate what I’ve purchased) because she will be completely honest and gush when she approves.  My boyfriend will always tell me that he likes what I’ve bought- good boyfriend- which is a great confidence booster if I’m leaning towards unsure.  This feedback from others will give you time to process your purchase and, if need be, return the goods.

3) Seriously sit down and work out if and when you can afford to buy the item you’re after.  A close friend of mine who inspired this very blog asked me if putting something on lay-by was passé- it is NOT!  Due to the swift nature of the fashion industry, it can be very easy to let something pass you by.  One day that soft leather jacket is in store, the next it’s gone.  Lay-by is the best way to secure your purchase without having to fork out the entire amount then and there.  Most retailers offer lay-by as a payment option where you are required to pay 20% of the cost and you’ll have approximately 6 weeks to pay it off- some will even offer extended terms if you call and ask.  Now if only I could find the patience to lay-by...

Hopefully these few tips will help you with your extreme cases of BR, and you’ll make smart fashion choices- remember that the most important thing is to know and develop your style and the following (my number one) tip:

If you think you will go home and be able to do nothing but think about something you’ve seen at the shops (this is especially the case if you are overseas)- BUY IT NOW- the worst feelings I’ve ever had about shopping haven’t been that I’ve bought something that I shouldn’t, but that I’ve missed out on something I should.

Yours Fashionably,

Nat xo