Here's How to Shop for Clothes like a Pro ...

It’s always good to do a closet cleanout before you go shopping. This makes room for new items you buy, and helps you see what staple pieces you might be lacking in your wardrobe. When you know exactly what you’re shopping for, it’s easier to avoid impulse purchases. I also use this time to check on what’s in style for the current season so I can add a trendy piece to my list of “needs”.

Setting a budget before you head out the door can keep your from overspending. It will also help you to pace yourself and maybe pass up one expensive piece and try to find a better deal somewhere else. Use this time to also decide which items you can splurge on, for example a pair of boots or a leather jacket. Items like jeans and t-shirts are a dime a dozen, but for a pair of boots to last all winter, you can afford to spend more.

You can actually save money in the long run if you buy quality over quantity. Buying three cheap bags versus one pricier but better quality bag is a prime example. The cheaper bags will quickly wear out even with rotating them often. You’ll see that the better quality bag lasts you all season or maybe even all year if it’s a versatile, neutral piece.

It’s good to mix it up by buying pieces that may be a little to the left of your typical style, but beware of going too far out of the box. You’ll end up with pieces that you never wear, and you’ve not only wasted money and time but your closet is stuffed full of ugly clothes and you’re back at square one.

If you don’t have time to try on, then save your tags and receipts just in case you get home and despise the fit! Sometimes pieces look entirely different on the hanger than they do on your body so it always pays to try.

Always check to make sure something you are purchasing for everyday wear is conducive to your lifestyle. For example, a breastfeeding mother would want to check for easy breast access. A secretary or someone who sits at a desk all day would want to check that a garment is comfortable in the waist area when sitting down.

If you’re on the fence about something, leave the store. Go get some lunch or take a little break. If you can’t stop thinking about the item, then go back and purchase it! Sometimes taking a break gives us a fresh thought process and helps make clearer decisions.

These are my tips and tricks; they help keep me from impulse purchases or a closet full of clothes I’ll never wear! Like most women, I tend to love shopping, so I had to come up with a game plan to keep me from going on crazy shopping sprees too often. Do you like to shop for clothes? Please, share your ideas for shopping like a pro below, and thanks for reading!