Fall is here, which means NEW WARDROBE! SHOPPING! FABULOUS FALL FASHION! As exciting as it is, shopping can be a little daunting. While we would all love to have an unlimited budget, this is usually not the case. Here are some fall shopping tips that will help you make the most of what you have, the most of your spending money, and create the most looks!
1. Before you shop, assess your closet. We all go through the "I have nothing to wear" moods somedays, but it's important to honestly assess what you have. Pull every piece you own out, and try it on. Have a top you never wear because it doens't fit? Get rid of it! Try on all of your clothes to eliminate ones that don't fit. Have some fall appropriate clothing, but it feels old? When you're in the mood for something new, it's easy to feel the urge to shop. My advice is to take all of your pieces, and try to find at least 2 new ways to wear them. You may need a simple accessory to make somthing feel new, or you may find awesome new combos using things you have! Also, don't discriminate against your summer wardrobe! Maybe you can use some of the tops as layering pieces, and throw tights under your shorts so you don't freeze. Really make the most of what you've got.
2. Find your inspiration. After you have assessed your closet, decide on what you want and need to buy. Look on pintrest and in magazines for inspiration. It's better to get inspired and get an idea of what you're looking for, rather than just taking your money and heading out the door. Having an idea of what you want will eliminate impulse purchases and purchasing a bunch of things you don't totally love. Make a list of things you are looking for before heading out. It doesn't have to be a specific item from a specific store on your list, but write down the types of items you are looking for.
3. Make sure you have your bases covered. Before you start buying a bunch of quirky pieces that are difficult to match, make sure you have your basics. Some things I consider basics for fall are : dark wash, well fitting skinnies, leggings, tights, comfortable/fairly practical boots, and a good jacket(i,e leather).
4. Shop around. My technique when I go out shopping is to browse shops, try on pieces that I like, and come back. I usually don't purchase the things I like in a store until I have browsed the store I want to that day. This is best because you may find similar pieces at other stores that are either a better deal, or you like more! Make a mental note of what you like at each place, then decide and go back to purchase.
5. Keep your reciepts, and be aware of return policies. I know, sounds obvious, but some of us figure we can return things with simply the tag, etc. While most retailers have similar policies, keep your reciepts, and familiarize yourself with each stores indiviual policy. I have known people who have purchased items without trying them on, and got them home to realize they didn't fit. To make matters worse, they couldn't return the item (sale items, etc). It's a good idea to try things on when you are there, or at least find out if it is returnable if you don't.
I hope you found these tips helpful! Do you have any tips that I missed?
X's and O's,
Amanda
