Don't Fall for these Shopping Traps as New England Stores Reopen
As we are beginning to resume ‘somewhat’ normal routines in Boston, shopping at your favorite stores may be one of those things.
It happens to all of us; you go shopping for one specific item and come home with things you never planned on buying and never wear. We’re going to tell you what common retail shopping/spending traps to avoid before you get back out there.
Don’t confuse clearance with necessity
Only shop clearances when you can match the clearance to a real need. For example, shop for necessities such as pillows and sheets when they are marked down for clearance because these are items you would purchase anyway.
Don’t confuse cheap with frugal
A low price tag doesn’t make an item a bargain. You want to get good value for your money.
The magic 90 minutes
Stores do many things to get you into the “zone” of shopping. Set a timer on your phone for 90 minutes, when it goes off take a break and look at what you’ve got in your cart. Did you make smart shopping choices?
Don’t carry items you are contemplating purchasing
Items that get carried around are more likely to be bought. The issue is that when you carry products around with you, they begin to feel like yours. If you are eyeing something, keep it on the rack or shelf until you decide.
Make a “need list” and “want list”
One powerful tool that we implement with our clients is a “need list” and a “want list”. When you are part of the Unfoldid family, these lists stay on your smartphone wherever you go, in your Unfoldid Interactive Styling App.
The need list consists of items that are essential for your daily or weekly routine. For example, a basic tank, blazer for work, or great fitting denim can all be considered essential. (Download our full list of clothing ID essentials.)
The want list is made up of non-essentials that you would like to have and that you might purchase. A few things you might find on a want list include: a new purse, new pair of shoes, or new coat.
Aim to keep these lists at ten items or less to prevent you from justifying a huge shopping spree. This way if you love to shop, you allow yourself some freedom to purchase items, but only those on your list.
Need help learning how to shop smarter?
Our Stylists deliver personal shopping and expertise directly to your home or office. We provide you with the tools to build a wardrobe filled with essential pieces of clothing that saves you both time and money.