Marjie's Shopping Diet


The Shopping Diet is my way of passing along words of advice to fellow self-proclaimed shopaholics so they can buy on a budget.
You don't have to make a fortune to buy today's latest trends and have a closet full of fun. Here I'll blog about tricks I've learned over the years that allow me to shop when I want, buy (mostly) what I want, keep my closet happy and feel good about myself, all while staying within my budget.
To me, bargain hunting is a thrilling challenge. It takes skill, drive and passion to know what you're looking for, find it, and get it for less than everyone else. I take pride in the fact that although I don't usually spend more than $20 or $30 on any one item, I'm always getting compliments on my clothes and accessories. Some of my most successful shopping experiences have resulted in a $5 pair of black patent flats that I've worn almost every day for the past two years, and a $4 black scarf that goes with anything.
I don't just tell people to buy things on sale, or only buy something when it's on sale. Part of The Shopping Diet is doing research so you get the best possible deal on something you really want/need. It's about weighing your options and making good choices.
For me fashion is all about how YOU want to look and feel. Wear what you want and you'll always look good.









Sunday, February 28, 2010

The bold and the beautiful (you)

Many times when I think of being bold in fashion, I think of runway models and expensive brands. I think of being fierce, daring, confident. Do we always have to associate those words with expensive? No, and here is proof. Making a statement doesn't have to cost a lot.
It can be that one bright red sweater than makes you stand out during a work conference. It can be that new pair of black lace high heels that get you noticed at a crowded bar. Or maybe it's that blouse with the unconventional print that your mailman can't seem to take his eyes off when delivering your mail. Or, maybe you want to try something bold for you, and you don't care who notices. Whatever the case, if you want to stand out or try something new, you shouldn't be afraid to. Your wallet won't mind, especially with these prices.
So ladies (and gents), be bold, take a chance, change something.


$27.80, Forever 21





$24.20, Go Jane





$29.99, Modcloth





$18.50, Go Jane





$15.80, Forever 21





$24.50, Old Navy





$9.80, Forever 21





$24.60, Go Jane





$7.99, Modcloth

A nice floral arrangement

One of spring 2010's most prominent features in fashion is the floral print. Yes, you may give in to all your floral fantasies. Below is proof that some flowers do last forever.



$22.99, Shoe Ocean





$12.50, Wet Seal





$15.80, Go Jane





$11.60, Go Jane





$37.99, Modcloth





$36, Lulus





$27.80, Forever 21





$24.80, Forever 21





$3.80, Forever 21





$19.90, Forever 21





$19.50, Wet Seal





$3.80, Forever 21





$15.80, Forever 21





$12.80, Forever 21

It's OK to have baggage

Reasonable bags for spring! YAY!


$16.80, Forever 21





$15.80, Forever 21





$14.50, Old Navy





$13.99, Fashion Bug




$12.80, Forever 21.

Friday, February 26, 2010

Getting out of your label funk: why labels don't matter on The Shopping Diet

If you've ever been called a "label whore" and have decided you want to go on The Shopping Diet, this post is tailor made for you.
(Yes, you may thank me ahead of time)

Now, I have never been obsessed with labels, ever. My shopping strategy always involves buying what I like, no matter who makes it.
And because of that, I offer this advice:

It is OK to have your favorite labels and brands. Everyone does. And it's even OK to purchase clothing and accessories and shoes by those labels and brands. But my advice per The Shopping Diet, is to not limit yourself to only your favorites because you never know what you might be missing out on.

I shop anywhere and everywhere: tiny boutiques, speciality stores, K-mart, Amazon, Walmart and Target. Department stores. Outlets. Because of that variety I am exposed to a lot of different brands of clothing. Sometimes I look at the label before I try on an item, and sometimes I don't. But I never let it determine if I'm going to buy something or not. If I like it, it fits well, it looks good and is in my price range, consider the item as good as already hanging up in my closet. Because of this mentality, I have learned over the years that many different brands of clothing look good on me.

So how do you get out of the label funk? Well, you're on a diet, right? Part of being on The Shopping Diet involves making changes. It involves adjusting some things to ensure you can still shop with dignity but also pay all your bills (yes, all of them), on time, and still, (yes, still), have money for groceries, gas and your kitty.

So change your mentality now. Labels and brands are cool. But allow yourself to discover a world outside of those labels and brands. You may just find an amazing $12dress that looks amazing, goes with anything, and you end up wearing for four years.

Part of the reason I like to buy different brands is because I thrive off a closet full of different options. I like my clothes to be original, unique and versatile. One day I'll want to wear a polo and pearls, and the next I'll want to wear a crazy zig zag top with black suede booties. And it's different brands that allow this kind of variety.

So the next time you're scanning the sale items at Target, do yourself a favor. Don't only look for Mossimo items. Try on things because you like the way they look. Do this at every store. Even online. Build up a closet (and a mind) full of variety and options.

Capturing the perfect clutch


Let's face it, if you're on The Shopping Diet or shouldn't ever spend more than $20 or $30 TOPS on a clutch unless, of course, it's gorgeous and made by a top designer that was originally $1,300 and is down to $45. But seriously, a woman's clutches should be many, not pricey.

If you want a lot of different clutches, and you should, because your events vary, you shouldn't be spending a lot of money on them.

Here are some tips to help you find what you're looking for:

1. Closure. Some clutches close by zipper, some by snap and some by magnet. Consider your contents and what your contents will be when using that particular clutch. If you're shopping for a clutch to bring to a wedding, will you be bringing a camera? Lipstick? A driver's license to secure your spot at the open bar? If you'll be bringing things that you don't want to fall out and get lost, opt for a zipper closure.

2. Material. While it may be obvious to some that you really shouldn't bring a patent plastic pleather clutch to a formal event, some may not know the material rules, literally. Formal events, like weddings, call for clutches of dressy material. Basically anything other than that plasticy-pleathery shiny crap. So maybe satin-like material, or lace-like. On the other hand, if you're going to a sports bar and the dressiest thing you'll be wearing that night are your plasticy, pleathery high heels and a sports jersey, that plasticy clutch might be OK.

3. Color. This one is tricky, and I know from experience. I have many different clutches in many different colors. Part of that is because I LOVE brightly-colored accessories, and as much as it makes sense to buy a black clutch to go with every outfit, I have a hard time settling on that color when there are so many other options. My clutches range from a magenta with a bow, to a plasticy red to a straw-like one with metallic lining to a purple snakeskin-like one with a snap closure. Because of my wide selection of colors, I find it hard to match my clutches with outfits. Now of course solid shirts and dresses would go nicely with a colored clutch, but since I like colors (and patterns) so much, solid colors in my closet are a rarity. So my advice is to have at least one clutch that will go with everything. And that would usually be a black one. To be safe, I'd go with one made out of satin-like material so it can be dressed up or down. It can go with jeans and a nice peasant blouse and also with a formal dress.
That clutch you choose to buy to go with everything - let's call it a safety clutch, ha ha - should also be reliable and sturdy. If it's got to go with everything, it has to be durable. It can't be flimsy and it can't be too small. After all, if it's purchased for any occasion, wouldn't one of those occasions involve a camera? A wedding, birthday party, or night out with the girls. So it's gotta be able to fit your camera. And in my opinion, since it has to last a while and keep your contents safe, I would go with a zipper closure.
And since your safety clutch is supposed to be there whenever you may need it, should hold all your contents and be able to go with you to any event, I give you my own personal permission to spend a little more than you normally would on a clutch. It's worth the few extra bucks if it's a safety clutch, right?
So, per The Shopping Diet, do your research, look around, and find that perfect safety clutch. Make sure you love it because I guarantee it will love you.

Blogging on a budget

Just kidding, most blogging is free.
Anyway, here are some blogs I found about shopping on a budget. Read on!

The Budget Babe: Fab without a fortune
http://www.thebudgetbabe.com/

The Budget Fashionists: Saving you money since 2003
http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Rules for online shopping


Online shopping has its ups and downs.
One reason I like it so much is because you have infinite options at your fingertips. You have choices. You could be surfing your way through 20 different shopping sites at one time. You can make informed decisions this way.
However, when online shopping, you don't always know if the clothes are going to turn out how you imagine them. That's why I've created this, hopefully helpful, post, so you don't ever have to return another item bought online again.

Material:
Read the material carefully. Look for warning signs that the shirt or dress might not look as good as you imagine it to. Some of those material warning signs are shirts or dresses made completely or partially out of chiffon (see-through fabric), rayon (sheer and skin-hugging), and spandex. There are no surprises with items that are 100 percent cotton.
If you are as daring to order any items made with the materials I listed, go for it, just be prepared!

Button-down:
This one is always hard. Unless you're always 100 percent certain of your shirt size, button-down included, then you need not fret. For the rest of us, usually button-down shirts need to be tried on in person. It's hard to predict what will fit when the closure of your top relies solely on buttons. (not so with pull-over shirts) I'd always advise to order up when ordering a button-down online because you're less likely to run into the problem of a shirt not being able to button! What a horror!

And now, to hopefully lift your spirits a little, here are some safe bets when shopping online:

1. Banded bottoms. You really can't fail with a banded bottom. I love these type of shirts because they go with any body type, can hide tummy fat, and usually the banded bottom is easily adjustible, meaning you can wear it all the way stretched down, or push it up a little for a shorter shirt look.

2. Empire waists: Yes, yes, and yes. Everyone loves empire waists. Why? Because they're safe, especially for those self-conscious about their tummies. Empire waists bunch, or gather, right under the breasts and kind of fan out, allowing tummies and the rest of the body to be hidden under fabric.

3. Elastic waists: Just as good, if not better, than the empire. Elastic waists usually complement any body type because they hug the curves in all the right places. Elastic usually is placed around the center, enhancing women's hourglass figures. Yay for that!

We didn't talk about shoes yet. Don't worry, I'll get there.

Heels: For high heels I always advise to order one size or one half size DOWN. Why? What's worse than heels too big that keep sliding off your ankles? Not much.
Heels that are too small may seem like a pain (literally) at first, but shoes usually do stretch out over time and mold to your feet. Eventually they should fit pretty perfectly...or are perfect as heels can fit. Also, in my opinion, it's better to have heels too tight than ones that literally slide off every time you walk. Agree?

Wedges: This one is a bit tricky. I'd also generally order a size or half a size down for these because although they're wedges, they still are elevated. Just pay attention to slingbacks, or straps that go along your ankle. Can those straps be adjusted? If not, definitely order down.

Flip flops and other open, flat sandals: Order a half a size UP. Unlike heels and wedges, when your feet are in flip flops or sandals they are spread out; they are not scrunched in because no heel is present. Also, a flip flop that is too small looks really ridiculous.

Spring 2010's shirtdresses

$24.99, Target




$29.50, Old Navy



$14.00, Walmart




$14.00, Walmart

Scarves for spring!

Get excited!

$19.99, Gap




$9.99, Fashion Bug




$9.99, Fashion Bug




$8.50, Wet Seal



$5.80, Forever 21

An outfit in the $50 range

Occasionally I'll post outfits in the $50 range and under. Some will include accessories like jewelry, scarves or handbags.






Dress: $24.80, Forever 21
Shoes: $19.70, GoJane

My version of Naughty Monkeys





Ok, remember how in one of my previous posts I talked about getting the top fashions for less? Well, here is just one example.

The real Naughty Monkey shoes versus the ones I own.
And where did I get mine, you ask? K-Mart. $30.

Notice how the real ones have a tan heel while mine, or the "fake" ones have a black heel.

An outfit in the $50 range

Occasionally I'll post outfits in the $50 range and under. Some will include accessories like jewelry, scarves or handbags.








Dress: $34, Lulus
Shoes: $20.60, GoJane

When you "just know"

This rule may not work for everyone, but I'll offer it anyway because it's proven successful 100 percent of the time in my shopping experiences.
This rule, I'll need to add, only works for physical, or in-person shopping.

Any good shopper grabs a bunch of clothes to take to the dressing room. The same shirt in two different sizes, the same dress in three different colors. The more options you have, the better chance you have of finding something wonderful.

Have you ever tried on an item of clothing and "just knew" you HAD to have it, no matter what?! It fit perfectly and made you look absolutely stunning. Well, my friends, these moments usually are few and far between for many of us, so when it comes, grab it by the tags.

My rule is that when you find an item like that, you get it, assuming it's in your price range. (You shouldn't have even brought it to the dressing room if it wasn't!)

Then there are some items that as soon as you get it over your head you look in the mirror and say "yuck" outloud. Those items are a no-buy. And then there are those items you try on again and again just to "make sure." (Do I like it or not like it?) These items also, in my book, are a no-buy. If you don't "just know," don't get it.

My "just know" moments come in the form of an out loud "absolutely." I've had one of those moments each for my junior prom and senior prom dresses. I assume I'll feel that way when I try on my future wedding dress, as well!

For those struggling with whether or not to buy an item you try on more than once, let me offer this piece of advice: if you have to think too hard about it, do you really want to spend your money on it?
If you're one of those people that go to a store, find nothing that looks good, but still buys something anyway because you refuse to leave empty handed, I advise you to wait. Leave the store without any bags. Does not buying anything make your shopping trip unsuccessful? No, not if you're waiting for something better in the future.

Wait for your "just know" moment, my friends. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Finding it for less

Another rule of The Shopping Diet is finding what you want for less. This is assuming you want the top runway fashions the day they come out. Finding those fashions for less, though not original, still are great.
Now this may seem like an obvious rule for some. And for others, who want only the top designers and name brands lining their closet, The Shopping Diet isn't for you.
Those on the diet need to do so because they can't afford every original Betsey or Louis. They want Betsey and Louis look-a-likes. And that's OK.
If you're a fashion expert (or try to be), like me, you want to keep up with today's trends. You may not know it, but the trends you strive to keep up with are modeled after today's top designers and are displayed on the top runways of the world.
The styles you see at Forever 21 or GoJane or ModCloth of Lulus, are those fashions, but for less. Even the shoe styles you see at Payless, K-Mart or Target are modeled after today's fashion designers. They are modeled after Carlos Santana and Jimmy Choos.

The first step to finding what you want for less is knowing where to shop. If you shop at a variety of different places, like me, this shouldn't be too challenging. Scan your favorites for what you're looking for. Are those stores carrying any new favorites? If so, you're in luck.

I guarantee you'll find today's top fashions at your local department store or boutique. If you really can't find what you're looking for, I give you permission to shop on Rodeo Drive.

What makes it a "diet"?

Think of regular diets, ya know, the ones involving food.
You are limiting yourself to lose weight, but you're not completely starving, are you? Well, you shouldn't be.
It has been said that the most effective form of dieting is enjoying your favorite foods, but doing so in moderation. This way you are not completely depriving yourself. You will lose weight but still be eating what you want. This is hard for many of us, though.
Who can really eat just one cookie, or just five chips? I can't. So in reality, I find myself avoiding these things completely.
But when it comes to shopping, you don't have to completely cut things out. Never shop again to save money? That doesn't sound like the best option, now does it?
How about shop, get what you want, and still manage to stay within your budget? Yes, it is very possible to do this, even moreso than eating only one cookie when an entire box is calling your name.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Sleep on it

One of my favorite, and most used rules of The Shopping Diet is: sleeping on it.

What exactly does that mean? Well, I sure am glad you asked.

This works for both online shoppers and in-person shoppers.

Let's start with online:
If you're like me, you have a few favorite sites you shop at. These are ones you check regularly for new items. Some of mine are Forever21, Charlotte Russe, Wet Seal, JcPenney, Amazon, etc. At those sites I have wish lists: items I want, but haven't committed to buying yet. Often these wishlists will have upwards of 30 items each.
When I'm ready to make a purchase and am pretty confident about some of the items on my wishlist, I'll move them to my shopping bag. Keep in mind not every Web site lets you do this. Some shopping bags are deleted after you exit the site, while others remain for 30 days or more.
Once the items are in my shopping bag, I leave the site. I take one or a few days to think about the items I have decided I want. I ask myself: would I wear it? What would I wear it with?
I literally "sleep on it."
After a few days, if I still really want it, I'll buy it. If not, the item will be deleted or move back onto my wishlist.

This tip works best for impulsive shoppers: shoppers that buy without thinking. Buy allowing yourself a few days to really decide if you want something, you'll cut down tremendously on unwanted and unworn items. If you allow yourself time to think about the things you want, you are giving yourself an advantage. Your mind will be clear after a few days.

Now, for in-person shoppers, obviously online wishlists and shopping bags do not apply. When you are giving yourself time to think over your potential purchase you are leaving the store. After you've left, apply the "sleep on it" rule. How do you feel the next morning?

I have found that when I consider for a few days if I really want a certain product, I am buying half of what I normally am. And in benefit, I am gaining what I REALLY, truly want.

So do yourself a favor. Don't rush. If a certain item that you've decided you want (after a few days of thinking), is no longer available in your size or has been taken right from the rack you left it the other day, don't fret. I guarantee you'll find something else you want in the near future :)

Research


One of the most important parts of The Shopping Diet is doing your research.

For example, let's say you're looking for a green trench coat for spring. You know you don't want to spend more than $30 on it. You know you want a tie waist and pockets. You know it would look amazing with your new pale yellow scarf.

How do you go about finding this coveted trench?

My advice, per The Shopping Diet, is this:
Do research online. Use Google. Go to your favorite sites. (the ones you religiously shop at online)
Use Amazon and others like it. Search, search, search.
By doing this, a lot of different types will show up. Some different colors, different styles, different prices. You may come up with new ideas for what you want or you may still be stuck on that one fantasy of a coat that's comfortably set in your mind.
By doing research you are exposing yourself to all your options. If you bought the first coat you saw at $45, and found another just like it for $20, wouldn't you be a little dissapointed?

Once you've weighed out your options, you can make an informed decision. You've seen 30 + green trench coats. Which is the one you like best, for the price you want?

By not doing research you are shopping blindly. Nobody likes that, and you shouldn't either.

Types of shoppers





When you're shopping, what are you thinking about? Do you have a mission?

There are a few different types of shoppers, and it's possible for everyone to be any of these types at different times.

Type 1: Shopping with a mission. This means you go into the mall or a particular store knowing exactly what you're looking for: a knee-length black dress with flutter sleeves. A brown strappy wedge to go with the dress you bought last week. A pin-striped button down for your meeting at work next week. A pair of black patent slingbacks because, everyone needs a pair. If you've found what you were looking for, do you buy it? If not, do you leave with something else that you really didn't need?

Type 2: I shop to feel better about myself. Yes, we're ALL guilty of this one. Just like eating a pint of Breyer's or downing a bottle of Pino all by your lonesome, shopping sometimes can make us feel better; it can lift our spirits after a stressful day or give us hope after a breakup.

Type 3: I'm in the mood for new clothes. This is perfectly natural, right? Spring is a few weeks away and your closet is full of grey turtle neck sweaters. You need a few new items for the upcoming season. Maybe a few floral prints, some open-toe sandals and of course, a new hobo to tote your new sunglasses. Any avid shopper knows you can't go into each season unprepared. So you need a wardrobe update? That's cool with me!

Type 4: The "window" shopper. Unlike actually window-shopping, when you browse just to browse, you end up leaving the store with a few too many bags. This type of shopper says they're going to "just look around" but they end up buying half the store. In my opinion, this type of shopper is smart enough to know he or she isn't just going to "look around"; they know they are going to buy things.

Those are the four main types I can think of off the bat. There are plenty more.
No matter what type of shopper you are, though, there is a Shopping Diet to fit your needs. Read on, friends!

What is The Shopping Diet?

The Shopping Diet is shopping with dignity, strength and class.
The Shopping Diet is allowing yourself to shop within your own individual means.
The Shopping Diet is smart.
The Shopping Diet is knowing your resources and knowing how to use them.
The Shopping Diet, just like any other type of diet, is setting your own rules and regulations to customize your needs and wants.

Who can go on The Shopping Diet? Anyone!

Introduction

I created The Shopping Diet to help fellow shopping lovers, addicts and enthusiasts fulfill their wildest shopping fantasies without loosening their belts, or, disregarding their budgets.
Yes, my friends, it IS possible to shop, stay current with the latest fashions and have a closet bursting at the seams without spending a small fortune. You just have to know how to do it.