Shopping Like a Pro with Steph

You could say I’m a shopping enthusiast, otherwise, it probably wouldn’t be part of what I do for my personal shopping clients. However, I would classify my enthusiasm as a passion for shopping smarter– shopping with a purpose. I’m not about wasting time, wandering aimlessly through a mall full of crowds of people or wasting money on pieces that are going to collect dust in a closet. 

Over the years I’ve worked with countless women who have told me things like, “I hate shopping”, “I always feel overwhelmed with how many options there are” or my personal favourite “I always end up with a pile of clothes I don’t end up wearing.” Well, today I’m sharing with you some of my best shopping tips from start, to finish in hopes that it makes your next shopping excursion a more enjoyable experience.

Wardrobe Inventory

This is so important to do before you plan to hit the mall or boutique. Think of this as the starting point that will set you up on the right path, ensuring that you know exactly what you’re looking for when you begin combing through racks. Taking an inventory of your closet will help you get clear on the pieces you want or need to add to your existing wardrobe. Keeping functionality and authenticity at the forefront of this step is so important because you want to make sure that the pieces in your closet are serving you and your highest self. If you haven’t already read our “How to Refresh your Wardrobe” blog piece I highly recommend you start there before you proceed with these next steps.

Pre-Shop Websites

The last thing any of us wants to do is waste a Saturday wandering the mall with no success. Nobody has time for that! Which is why I love a pre-shop. If you’re working directly with me, I do this for you, preparing racks at stores before you even arrive, no muss no fuss! The benefit of this service is that you’re only seeing pieces that align with your style and what you’re looking for, your time is valuable and I never want to waste it. 

Don’t worry, this is still something you can practice yourself even if you’re not using my shopping services. Try a pre-shop by scouring the websites of stores you love to shop at and making a list of pieces you hope to try on when you arrive in the store. This is also the best way to keep your shopping focused and on task, so you’re not wasting time in stores that don’t have anything you’re looking for.

Make a Plan

I am a woman who loves a list and a plan, so of course, when shopping that’s no different! Once you’ve done your pre-shop make a list of the stores with pieces that caught your eye. Plan to start at the shop with the most pieces you want to see, as you’ll likely have the most energy when you first start shopping, as energy tends to deplete as you continue your excursion..

If you’re someone who doesn’t like crowds or navigating busy shops, manage your timing by going when they first open as there’s usually less traffic and less people.

Fuel Yourself

This piece of shopping advice probably seems simple, but a lot of people miss this one and wonder why they’re tired or grumpy while trying clothes on in a changeroom. Always eat before going shopping, you need fuel because it can be draining to take off and put on clothes for several hours. This is why I always grab my client a starbucks beverage of their choice before we start and always carry protein bars in my bag. Coming from a girl who gets hangry, I know that nobody is at their best when they’re in need of a snack, nevermind being in a positive frame of mind for shopping.

Practice Smart Purchasing

There are some basic questions you should always ask yourself when you’re contemplating making a purchase for your wardrobe. While I won’t share all my secrets, here are a couple that have helped some of my clients make smart decisions when it comes to shopping. 

If you can’t think of three different ways you would style and wear the piece with items already living in your closet, it probably won’t bring much versatility to your wardrobe. It might be a one off statement piece, (which isokay to have in your wardrobe because they will always showcase your unique style) but, you can also have a beautiful and fun wardrobe that’s authentic to you with pieces that work hard and can be worn many different ways.

My last tip for making smart purchases comes in handy when you are at a cross roads and can’t decide whether or not you should march this fabulous piece up to the register. Step away. Leave it in the store and go to the next. You will likely quickly realize if you need to go back for that item. If you forget about it, that’s a pretty clear sign it’s not something you love or need. But if you can’t stop thinking about it, turn right around because that baby sounds like it’s meant for you.

Fashion Show

Who doesn’t love a fashion show? Once you’ve arrived home, book some time to have a play with your new pieces and your closet. Have fun creating new outfits, mixing OG wardrobe pieces with your new beauties. This is often times my favourite part with clients, seeing how many new outfits we can create using what they have with their new purchases. How many can you create?

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