New Year & tips for successful shopping!
As 2014 begins and we enjoy the optimism that it brings, it’s also a time for sales and being lured into buying stuff that we don’t need. This year, follow my tips and you’ll end up with real bargains that you actually need, want and wear plus you’ll discover ways to revamp items you already have.
1. Have a clear out! Before I even contemplate sale shopping, I like to have a review of my wardrobe and get rid of anything that doesn’t fit (too big or too small), hasn’t been worn in 12 months and garments that are just getting a bit tired. Charity for the first 2 and bin for the last one!
If you’re not sure about the clothes you’ve not worn for ages, ask yourself why you haven’t worn it – if you find yourself making excuses then it needs to go or if you’re still a bit reluctant, challenge yourself to wear it within the next 7 days – if it’s not been worn, you need to say “goodbye” to it.
(Clearly if it’s your wedding dress or occasion wear, you can keep it!)
2. Arrange your wardrobe so you can see what you have and what you need. I like to have garment type (e.g. top, trousers, skirts, dresses etc) together and then by colour. This way you can see very easily what you’ve got and can put outfits together quickly. It’s also a great way to revamp things – try putting different tops and bottoms together than what you would normally or layer blouses under dresses.
3. Sort out your accessories. Why not hang up your necklaces, scarves and belt on nails on the inside of your wardrobe so you can see everything. It makes completing an outfit really straightforward and you can revamp a garment just by wearing it with a different necklace or try putting a belt on.
4. Have a good look at yourself. Yes, before I go serious shopping to replenish the cull, I like to remind myself (no matter how hard it can be) of what I look like.
So, what’s my shape, has it changed, what dress size (roughly) am I, what do I like, what would I like to disguise? If you’re not sure of your shape, have a look at this website – provides you with an easy guide and it tells you what shape of clothes will compliment your assets!
5. Write a list. Feels a wee bit practical, but fear not, you will still get the joy of going round the shops, having a good rummage and you can try on as many things as you please.
HOWEVER – a list will focus your buying and help you to save money because you won’t buy anything you don’t need or that doesn’t suit you.
6. Go to your local, independent boutiques first! Not only can you feel virtuous about supporting a local business and ensuring diversity of choice on the high street, you will also find uncommon fashion, great brands, bargains and, most importantly, help and advice!
At Just g Boutique, we love to help out with suggestions to suit your lifestyle, shape, budget or occasion requirements.
If you’re a bit unsure about boutique shopping – get following some on Facebook or Twitter and you’ll get to see pictures of what’s in stock and a feel for the service you’ll receive.
You can follow Just g Boutique on Facebook. Or there’s Twitter, Instagram at Just_g_fashion and I’m on Pinterest too!
I hope this has helped and we look forward to seeing you in the Boutique – our sale is on now.
Happy shopping,
Gail x