Shop Like a Pro - Have a Plan and a Purpose.

Ever watch people go “shopping” in the movies or on TV?

It’s usually some montage of characters pointing and squealing at display windows, ransacking racks of designer clothes, and whipping out their credit cards with reckless abandon– all set to some perky pop tune. In the end, they always collapse gleefully on their bed across a pile of newly purchased high-end store bags and boxes (tied carefully with ribbons, of course).

Um. OK.

So, how many times has your shopping experience actually been like that?

The reality is, shopping has to share time with your other commitments—work, home, family, friends, the gym, your pet, that new Netflix series you’ve been dying to binge.

So, with all those other demands on your time, you need to shop more efficiently—learn to get in and get out successfully. How? Just check out these tips to get the most out of your precious shopping time.

1. Set a date and make a list!

Choose a day where you have the fewest obligations. Mark it on your calendar. Then decide exactly what you’re looking for on this trip. Write down every piece you need and be as specific as possible. Need shoes? What color? Low heel? High heel? Flat? We’re talking that specific. Then break it down by the top 3 stores you want to hit and the departments within each store.

Pro tip: Get a little extra service for your money by shopping in the larger department stores like Nordstrom—they usually offer free or reduced prices on alterations, as well as shoe stretching, especially if you are a cardholder.

2. Dress comfy.

I have to say it: there’s a fine line between “comfy” and “disheveled.” You can be comfy and still be stylish. Start with your best bra (or the one you intend to wear with the outfit(s) you’re buying). Then choose an outfit that’s easy to quickly get in and out of – and, of course, your most comfortable shoes.

Pro tip: Unless you’re shopping in subzero temperatures, leave your coat in the car. It just adds an unnecessary layer and, you know, stores have heat. 

3. Lose the extras.

There’s no need to wear much jewelry, if any at all. It gets tangled up when trying on clothes and sometimes even gets lost in the dressing room. Can’t be without your Fitbit or watch. That’s fine, but otherwise, keep the jewelry safely at home. Also, don’t wear too much makeup, especially eye makeup—there are too many opportunities for smudging while trying on your outfits.

Pro tip: If you accidentally smudge makeup on the shirt you planned to purchase, don’t panic. Simply ask the sales associate if they have a steamer – large department stores will take the garment to alterations for a quick blast of air and **poof!** it’s gone. 

4. Pack practically.

Start with a cross-body or hands-free handbag – you’ll want something small that doesn’t get in the way or that you have to put down or hold while you’re in the racks. Next, bring a pair of trouser socks to make trying on dress shoes easy and sanitary. Make sure you have a hair tie to keep your hair out of the way, or if you get hot, or if you just look great with your hair up. I also recommend you pack a bottle of water and some mints, as well—keep your body hydrated and your breath fresh.

Pro tip: If you don’t have time to work a meal into your shopping trip, pack a protein bar from home to keep your energy up (and keep you away from unhealthy choices). Take a quick break to have your snack, or a cup of coffee and to review your list. It’s a good time to note your progress and review what’s left to do.

Maybe the most important thing to remember is to bring a good attitude. You have to be in the right frame of mind to make this a success.

Also, feel free to contact me if you need some company on your next shopping trip!