Shopping 101

Yes, I know. We all know how to shop.  Or do we? It can be frustrating and extremely hard for everyone, not just us big girls. The clothing industry has to produce clothing for every imaginable body type, size, and shape and not all of them are going to fit you. Every designer, manufacturer, label, and type of clothing will vary in sizes. Even two exact pairs of pants from the same label and size can fit you differently. All of these variables amount to a lot of headaches for the consumer... you.

I have a few simple rules to help me enjoy my shopping experience. And I do love shopping. These rules are very simple but can completely change the way you look at clothes shopping.

1) Size doesn't matter. I wear anywhere from a size 18 to a 22 depending on designer. Don't buy clothes for the arbitrary number that has been assigned to it, buy clothes for the way they make you feel and look.

2) Step outside of your comfort zone. Just because the shirt looks like a sad frumpy mess on the hanger doesn't mean it won't make you feel like a rock star. Constantly test your own ideas of what looks good on you and try something you usually would pass up.  You might be surprised.

3) Try on everything. You can't possibly know what will look good on you until you've tried it on.

4) Appreciate your body. Even if you don't like what you look like naked, learn to appreciate what it looks like in clothes. What are your best features?  Choose clothing that accentuates those features.  Some of us have amazing legs, show them off.

5) Don't forget the accessories. You can buy fabulous earrings in any store.  Watches, belts, jewelry, shoes, bags... the list is never-ending. Clothes are just pieces of cloth until you put your own style in them.  The combination of hair, make up, clothes, and accessories is the completed look, not the clothes themselves.

If you approach clothes shopping like an adventure to discover some exciting and new you it will be a lot more fun and rewarding.