I used to annoy people around me by talking about why we should be responsible shoppers and why we should live with a low environmental footprint. Then, when i realized those who understood the reasons didn’t seem to know how to be responsible shoppers, i decided to write an article and suggest steps they could take at their own pace.
It is often said that women have a hobby of shopping. Even if they have enough to wear, they are not satisfied. But how can we learn to spend money wisely and shop smart?
Here are some of the rules that i follow when i go shopping:
Number one. When you go to the store, carefully plan what you are going to buy.
In general, there are three types of shoppers. First, there are people who buy everything they see as they walk in and out of a store. Second, there are people who buy things they didn’t plan to buy when they receive a salary or extra income and feel like they have a lot of money. Third, there are people who buy only what they have planned in advance. So, plan what you are going to buy and how much you are going to spend before you go to the store. Well planned purchases are more useful and last longer, and you will avoid impulsive buying.
Number two. When buying clothes, think carefully about what other clothes you will wear them with.
Many people have closets full of clothes but still wonder what to wear. Instead, if you buy items while thinking about what shoes and bags you will pair them with, you won’t have this problem.
Number three. Organize your wardrobe and think carefully about what clothes you need most.
Consider the season, upcoming holidays, and what you currently need. This will help you avoid coming and saying, Why did i buy that? I already had something similar.
Number four. Don’t be lazy about trying things on, check the material and how they feel.
If you like something, try it on. Consider the shape, size, color, and material, as well as what you already own that matches it. Many people don’t fully understand how certain clothes suit their body shape or features. If it doesn’t feel right on your body , just put it back.
Number five. Based on the above. Consult with others.
Ask your friends if the item really suits you. Discuss whether you truly need it. Take a picture of the clothes you like and go home to see how they match your existing wardrobe. If you still like them, you can go back and buy them.
Number six. Don’t buy trendy items.
Think carefully about how long you will wear them and whether they will go out of fashion in the next year or two.
Number seven. Spend your money on one quality item.
Instead of buying many items you think you need, invest in good quality shoes or jackets that you can wear for two or three years. They will last longer and be more satisfying. You will value the item wearing for a long time.
Being smart shopper is not stopping yourself or avoiding things you enjoy. It’s about making thoughtful and smart choices. By planning , understanding your needs and focusing on quality over quantity, you can build wardrobe that truly works for you while also saving money and reducing waste.
Start at your own pace, be mindful of your decisions, and remember that every responsible purchases contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. I alsi talk more about this topic in my podcast , where i share more real life examples and my journey of trying to be responsible shopper.
If you are interested, go and give it a listen.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2VflgGjXKBTpEJTTPSXcLk?si=PGeEkhDMQcadUSt5sSB1QQ
