Carol Collins Image Consultants
Sunday, 27th May, 2007
Have you ever left home for an exciting shopping trip full of expectations, only to return exhausted and unhappy with your purchases? It's so easy to rush into things - to impulse buy under pressure for that must-have outfit or rely on advice from a sales assistant keen to improve her day's figures. Only you know what you need for your life-style, so with Carol's style tips and advice you can become your own expert shopper. Here's how to make that retail experience something you enjoy!
TOP TEN STYLE TIPS:
1. PLAN AHEAD Give yourself as much time as you can and stay focussed - don't be diverted by other shopping needs! Check magazines for looks that you like and where to find them, then audit your wardrobe, make a list of where the gaps are and decide on your budget.
2. A CURRENT LOOK REFLECTS CURRENT THINKING! There are some of us who would prefer to play it safe and duplicate what we always go for, but a few changes here and there will show the world you're in touch.
3. IT'S SO EASY TO BECOME A BORING SHOPPER Be adventurous and turn right out of your driveway for a change, and not left. Target new high streets or malls to shop and bring some freshness to your style. We're all time hungry, but if possible shop at quiet times for a more relaxed atmosphere.
4. SHOP ON YOUR OWN Partners would rather be watching football or playing golf - some girlfriends aren't the best
judges necessarily, particularly if there's a chance you might outshine them!
5. ALWAYS TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Be brave and try some new looks even though they aren't your usual style. Remember new makes may have different sizing so don't worry about what the label says - it's the fit that counts! You don't have to be a fashion victim, but a change of look can enhance your wardrobe and your self-esteem to boot.
6. WHEN YOU'VE HAD A GOOD TRAWL AROUND Take a break, drink your favourite coffee and ponder on what you've seen and tried -this will stop you impulse buying and taking things back is so boring and time consuming. You've made your decisons so now go and pounce on those new hot looks that will complete and update your new look for the season.
7. SERIOUS INVESTMENT BUYS When buying suits, coats or trousers, buy the best you can afford - they'll work wonders for your figure shape and last if you look after them. Try to invest in one new trouser/skirt suit each season to build up a good working wardrobe that can also take you anywhere with different accessories.
8. THE HIGH STREET The high street stores abound with the latest tops and accessories straight from the catwalk. The prices are amazing, so have fun finishing off your look here - you won't feel guilty at refreshing them next season either, as they won't burn a hole in that budget!
9.IF YOU'RE REALLY STRAPPED FOR CASH Always remember a new pair of shoes or some fresh
jewellery can totally transform an existing outfit and make it look brand new.
10.IF IN DOUBT DON'T BUY!