From The Straits Times    |
shopping_tn200

Shopping is a lifelong passion for me. It is something that I pride myself on doing well. Sounds frivolous I know, but shopping can be creative, fun and extremely fulfilling.

I work around beautiful clothes and accessories everyday and needless to say, my lust for them has grown exponentially. But alas, my salary isn’t enough to keep up with such a huge shopping appetite.

It goes a little like this… Everyday (yes it’s a daily habit) I peruse the must-have now section of major online shopping sites. While scrolling through the rows of shoes and apparel, I see something incredibly chic that seems to fit into my wardrobe perfectly! While examining the details through the zoom-in function, I see the price through the corner of my eye and realise this stunner is priced way beyond what I can afford.

But my heart refuses to budge. I start to rationalize. Maybe if I cut my morning cuppa, maybe if I start to eat one meal per day since I have been trying to lose weight anyway, or I could charge it to my credit card and try to get it on an instalment plan. These solutions work, but then the whole cycle begins again, when something new catches my eye…

That didn’t leave me very happy, much less fulfilled. So I decided to analyse this dismal situation and came up with this motto – splurge where it counts and save where it doesn’t. You can still look fabulous while rocking your double Cs and red soles, without having to suffer.

YOU SHOULD SAVE ON:

1. Frequent basics

As the name suggests, I am referring to staples in your wardrobe. It could be your white shirts, black shorts or pencil skirts that are worn to death. They get so much wear no matter what premium quality an expensive brand promises you, I am sure it is not going to withstand the test of time. Places like H&M and Zara are great for such basics.

2. Costume jewellery

In recent years, costume jewellery has been getting bigger and more expensive. There is a broader range of price points now available – from several dollars to several thousand dollars. In my opinion, I don’t think expensive costume jewellery is advisable if you are on budget. These pieces are essentially using ‘fake’ materials i.e. pearls and jewels, which will not hold up well over moderate periods of time and use. Jewellery trends also shift quite quickly, you don’t want to be stuck with a stack of $500 passe bracelets.

3. Flat Sandals

Another example of a closet item that will be your go-to piece every weekend when you cannot figure out what to wear. I wrote about how expensive shoes are worth the splurge, and if you realised, there was no mention of flat sandals. Affordable flat sandals with great leather quality are easy to find, so I don’t see why it’s necessary to blow $1,000 for a pair of barely there leather sandals. You can try Windsor Smith, Ancient Greek Sandals or Sam Edelman for affordable shoes.

YOU SHOULD SPEND ON:

1. Handbags

Most of you are already doing this, so yes, handbags are worth spending on. The right bag can instantly elevate your entire look and the quality of these European made handbags will withstand the test of time.

However, since we can’t afford to buy a new IT bag every season, spend on one or two that are classic and will continue to look amazing for years to come. Think solid colour (prints and flamboyant designs usually reveal its season) iconic designs of each brand. Last but not least, it’s important that you really, really love it and aren’t just buying it because it’s on sale or everyone else has it.

2. Lingerie

While shelling out on what’s underneath seems like a waste, a good set of lingerie is actually one of the most important investments you should make. Don’t tote an expensive bag on the crook of your arm and suffer in silence with underwire poking you and grubby lace everywhere!

Good lingerie is like a secret weapon. When you wear a well-constructed bra that fits you perfectly, the lumps and bumps on you are minimised and your body will be brought into balance. Trust me, you will look taller and slimmer, making you feel confident and beautiful. This will also minimize the sudden i-want-a-wardrobe-overhaul-because-i-hate-all-my-clothes situation.

3. Shoes

Yes, we all know that shoes are definitely worth spending on, but there are so many types of shoes! If you are on a budget, bear these tips in mind.

For your everyday shoes (ballet flats / plain work pumps), consider mid-range brands like Stuart Weitzman, Tory Burch or Kurt Geiger. They make great leather shoes that are comfortable for everyday wear.

If you are up for some spending, consider splurging on a pair of statement heels that make you feel like a diva the moment you put them on. Every women needs a pair of shoes that makes her feel like a milion dollars. And yes, you can re-wear these to every event because they are such showstoppers.

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