How to make the shops work for YOU
3 sleeps until the BIG day - the shops reopen and we can shop ‘til we drop! It’s even more exciting this time as all changing rooms will be open and we may even begin to like the lighting and stuffiness of them seeing as we haven’t been able to use them for a year now…lol.
It’s been such a long time since they have been open and in case you are feeling a tad rusty on the shopping front, I thought I’d share my top tips for getting the most out of your shopping time.
Prep Prep Prep -
It’s all in the prep. Hopefully, you have edited or organised your wardrobe recently so that you can shop with intent (more on that to follow) If you still need to don’t fret, check out this blog to get in the zone.
Research -
Do some research to suss out what’s in store so when you walk in you don’t immediately feel overwhelmed and underprepared.
Plan -
Plan your route so you don’t wander about aimlessly and lose your energy too early!
Get in early to fight the rush
Light layers -
Don’t wear a huge coat, you will get hot and bothered, and carrying your coat is next-level annoying. Wear a thin knit and leather jacket and you will be much happier.
Shop with intent –
Shopping with purpose stops panic buying which is pretty much always a fail and wastes so much time and can immediately ruin your post-shopping high. I recommend going shopping with a list of things you actually need. If that goes out the window because you get over-excited, ask yourself what three things will the piece you have fallen head over heels will go with that you already own in your wardrobe. If it works with at least three… it’s yours to buy!
Know your style fundamentals –
Know your what?! Get to grips with your beautiful body shape and what cuts, fabrics, and styles work best for you. If you aren’t sure what your shape is, download my free Ebook here to work out your shape to get you started. This will stop painful and unsuccessful try-on’s that can leave you feeling flat and also rule out half of the pieces on the shop floor so you don’t feel so overloaded by it all.
Also choosing the right colours that suit your skin tone and make it radiate whilst reflecting your unique personality is crucial. Colour has amazing benefits that not only boost our moods but can keep our energy high or balance it if needed. To me, colour is a magical power, and not enough people know what an impact it has on our skin and minds.
Try everything on!
I’m amazed at the number of people who don’t try things on and then have to go through the ordeal of returning them or even worse, having them sit with the tags still on until you can face selling or giving them to charity. Nip it in the bud, get your cute but in the changing room, and save yourself the hassle.
Trust yourself!
Trust your gut instinct, if something in you deep down (even if it very deep down) that thinks it doesn’t quite fit or isn’t really you, leave it behind. If you still think about it the next day, order it online in the size you tried!
Stop comparing yourself -
If you shop with a girlfriend or loved one, please, please, please don’t start comparing yourself to them. It’s the beginning of a horrid slippery slope that you don’t need in your life and frankly…. Its not worth it.
HAVE FUN -
Enjoy every second, you deserve this shop – my god you have earned it! Please shop until you drop, take lots of water, and grab some bubbles on the way home.
Finally, a catwalk try-on when you get home… is essential!
Stylish wishes,
Sian x
I am Personal Stylist based in London. I am a colour analysis expert, wardrobe stylist, and personal shopper. I specialise in body shape style, wardrobe edits, and shopping for clients. I am also a virtual stylist. I do online styling, online style advice, virtual body shape workshops, virtual wardrobe edits and online personal shopping. Fashion Stylist in London. Personal Stylist in London. London stylist.