10 things to avoid doing when clothes shopping in 2022

I am not here to tell what to do or not to do when clothes shopping , but I had a realisation the other day as I was in a shop between meetings and I was looking for something to buy to make me feel better.

I stopped for a second and I realised what was happening and I decided to write down a few things and thought It could be a good idea to share them with you.

So Here are the 10 things to try to avoid when you go shopping next:

1. Go shopping when you are having a bad day.

   All you will end up doing is buy new things that you will probably regret buying or will stay with the tag on in your cupboard.

2. Buy clothing without checking where your clothes are made.

   We talk about it often and we know it is vital for local economies and for the planet to start shopping more consciously. Well it Strat with checking where your clothes has been made. If we do that more often, we will realise how many things are made in China for example, ad China doesn’t really need you to survive. buy being more conscious about this and deliberately buying less, your favorite clothing brands are going to realise they have to look at more local places to produce their clothes.

3. Buy without checking what your clothes are made of.

   And this is so important not only because of the impact on the planet during the production process, but most importantly because of the damaging impact of micro plastics at every wash cycle. And to be honest who really think about this, right?

   So keep in mind that every time you do a wash cycle , up top 700 000 micro plastic fibres can be released in the water depending on the fabric washed.

   The most damaging fabrics are POLYESTER, NYLON, SPANDEX, ACRYLIC, VISCOSE/RAYON. And I am pretty sure they are the majority of our wardrobes. The least damaging are COTTON, WOOL, LINEN, HEMP, JUTE, SILK, BAMBOO.

   When buying a Jersey for example, rather go for a mix cotton/bamboo, rather than your polyester/acrylic. I know no it is also tempted to buy RECYCLED ACRYLIC or RECYCLED POLYESTER but it only helps halfway. Every time you wash recycled polyester, the micro plastics will be released in your water.

4. Buy just because you love the BRAND.

   I am taking an example with COUNTRY ROAD and TRENERY, 2 brands I usually love. Well, the last season, their range of clothing especially their colours were not at all colours which suited me, and their oversized top and dresses neither. So it is always better to give them a pass for a season rather than buying an item that doesn’t suit you.

   Remember that YOU are the curator of your own Style.

5. Buy something online that you saw on a friend or on Social Media. As much as I love to check out new brands and share products with my clients, It is tricky to buy online in a sustainable manner.

   Even if I know that the big plus of buying online is that you can always return your purchase.

   But before you click the add to cart button, just check the Brand’s sizing guide and make sure you buy the colour and the cut that works for you. I can always help you with these 2 things. (check my services)

   It will save you so much disappointment when trying something at home, on your own.

6.Buy the same neutrals again.

Remember you already have 5 navy jumpers and 3 white shirts! ;)

Especially if you have the general feeling of being stuck in your style, get out of your comfort zone and try buy some colourful accessories to wear with your neutrals. Start with scarves and shoes and integrate them slowly to your wardrobe.

7.Buy without thinking about what you can wear it with , that is already in your wardrobe.

Will this red shirt you love so much work with what you already have.Just think about at least 5 items that would work with it.. If it works, then buy it!

8.Buy something just because it is “cheap” or “on sale” or “affordable”.

Sometimes it is better to wait for something of a better quality that you will wear longer than to buy something on sale that you will wear one season.

I also realised that although I love thrift shopping, I sometimes have the tendency to buy things that I end up not wearing often enough

9.Buy something that doesn’t spark Joy. I am sure You all know the MARIE KONDO’s concept to get rid of anything that doesn’t spark joy, and sometimes It can sound a bit cheesy.

But don’t go shopping with a shopping list of clothes you need to buy and tick the box when you have bought your items of clothing. Make sure that there is the little extra detail on your clothes that is going to make you happy or smile when you wear it! It can be a tiny embroidery, a cute detail on a sleeve, a lovely button or a different colour thread for the hems..

You choose what sparks Joy for you.

10.Shop like 20 years ago or even 2 years ago.

We are in 2022, the world has changed and we know that we have to become more conscious consumers. It doesn’t have to be boring and you can do it in Style!

Hope you find this article useful and inspiring.

I am always available to discuss how to tackle your shopping with you.

Just click here to get in touch with me.

Alternatively If you need help with the reorganising of your wardrobe, check my services.

Until next time, Stay stylish!xx