"I consider myself a bit of a professional shopper and I pride myself on finding excellent clothing for excellent deals. Here are my rules for purchasing clothes:
1
If you don’t love it, don’t buy it. You may like something, but if its not true love, its not worth the investment (no matter how cheap). Why? Because we choose clothes to make us feel fabulous, confident, unique, comfortable – to make us feel our best selves. If you love something, you will feel all these things when you wear it. If you don’t love it, you may wear it for a bit, but chances are it will end up on a hanger toward the back of your closet, never seeing the light of day.
2
In choosing clothes, personal style is more important than trends. Defining your own personal style is key. What do you love? Vintage. Edgy. Classic. Sporty. Preppy. Natural. Bling. Polished. Bohemian. Sleek. There are endless style mantras, go with what you are drawn too. This does not mean you need to stay within a defined genre. Experiment, go for trends, mix it up – but in the process, always be true to yourself.
3
The next key ingredient is fit. Is it flattering to your body type? If no, don’t get it. (A word on skinny jeans and leggings. I agree with a prior post that they are often very unflattering. However, if worn correctly, very cute. Make sure to pair with flats or boots (not sneakers, loafers, other casual shoes. Also, if you are pear shaped at all, wear with a long shirt.))
4
After fit, consider fabric quality and color. Do you like the feel of the fabric? Does it drape well on your body? Does it require ironing (I personally do not purchase clothing that needs to be ironed because I won’t do it – therefore, I won’t ever end up wearing it.)
5
Make an investment in good jeans and a nice jacket.
6
I purchase high quality clothes on sale. Always hit the sale rack first and find pieces that meet your criteria. If you love something that is full price, inquire when it will go on sale and follow up. Never sacrifice quality.
7
My favorite stores: JCrew, Nordstrom Rack, Target. That said, I have found pieces all over – from GAP to Saturday’s Markets. Do not be limited by brand – limit your purchases according to what you love.
8
Consider your life, daily activities and purchase accordingly. As a mom, comfort has moved up on my list. If I can’t run in it, bend down in it modestly, or expose it to spit-up – then it doesn’t make the cut. At various stages of life we are at various places on the form vs. function continuum. Examine where you are and purchase accordingly.
9
Keep it simple. Don’t overwhelm yourself with endless choices. A few well-made, well fitting, fabulous pieces are much better than several so-so average ones.
10
Accessorize.11
Have fun and enjoy fashion. Magnify your own personal groove!"
