Shopping Intelligence

1. Make a List

Just like you jot down a brief list of food before sauntering down the aisles of your local grocery store, you’ll want to create a “to buy” list before clothes and accessory shopping, too. You don’t have to be extremely specific, but do write down the items you don’t want to forget. Lists are especially handy if you’re on a budget and want to stay focused on the necessities. They’re also great if you have many things to buy.

2. Bring a Tape Measurer

For some, trying on clothes in the dressing room is a major mood killer. Pulling clothes off and on messes up your hair, makes you sweaty and some tight spaces may induce claustrophobia tendencies. (And while we’re dissing dressing rooms, let’s just admit that some dressing room mirrors are downright unflattering.) If a case of the dressing room blues deters you from clothes shopping, don’t sweat it. Simply bring a tape measurer and measure the garments you fancy before buying. If you’re unhappy with the purchases after trying them on, return the clothing. Do acquaint yourself with the store’s return policy.

3. Dress for the Occasion

Fair or not, women who dress well receive better customer service when shopping, says a study by Ohio State University. While you don’t have to wear a $5,000 gown and get a blowout before heading to the fashion mall, a slouchy pair of sweats and an unkempt mane isn’t ideal, either. Wear minimal layers (to shed time in the dressing room) and make sure you feel confident, poised and beautiful before stepping out.

4. Bring a Friend

Cappuccinos, clothes shopping and best friends go together like vanilla ice cream, drizzled chocolate and strawberries. Make an eventful day out of your shopping trip by bringing an honest friend along with you. The more fashion-forward she is, the better. If you can’t bring a friend, take photographs with your phone and send them to someone who’s willing to offer their opinion.

Know Your Body

One thing is for certain: The more confident and fabulous you feel in your own skin — and outfit — the more often you’ll earn compliments throughout the day. So, instead of focusing too much on what’s trending at the moment or what you should wear based on your body type, evaluate how you feel in an outfit when gazing into the mirror. If you feel beautiful, comfortable and fashion-forward, by all means, buy the garment and walk out the door a proud shopper. Finding clothes that make you feel that good are a great investment, too, as you’ll likely wear them often. It goes without saying, as well, that what you feel best in is probably flattering to your body.

Know Your Lifestyle

Though many women are tied together by their love of fashion, most lead dramatically different lives. Before dropping loads of cash on a new wardrobe, it’s important to understand your lifestyle. For example, those who visit low key restaurants and funky art galleries should dress according to the casual attire of those events. If you’re an elegant woman who frequents the opera and symphony, a collection of fine gowns and apparel will be worth your money. Socialites and party go-ers may want to stock their wardrobe with cocktail dresses and flattering blouses.

Budget

Before you even enter a store (be it virtual or brick and mortar), make sure you have a budget. Set either a monthly, weekly or annual spending limit and then shop accordingly. Understand that bargain shopping will give you more bang for your buck, but don’t be afraid to splurge if your budget allows. The ultimate goal is to choose quality items that’ll last through the years. If you can find a flattering garment that’s well made and 80% off, by all means, snag it. If you fall in love with a piece that’s more than you’d typically pay, think about whether it’ll earn heavy rotation and make your decision from there.