I know that the title of this post is ironic especially coming from a stylist, fashion lover, and shopingera like me, but it’s true, I’ve rediscovered the fun of shopping… for myself.
For years, I had fun shopping for clients and family. The only shopping I did for myself was when: a.) I got a chance to travel and b.) when I’d finish shopping for everyone, I would sneak in a purchase for myself. Not bad, but not great either.
Barbara Kruger Untitled (I shop therefore I am) 111" by 113" photographic silkscreen/vinyl 1987
Shopping is such a fun and personal activity. It allows one to be creative especially when you have a budget. Also, having the freedom and means to buy what you like can be quite empowering.
Personally, I can’t live without shopping. Whether it’s doing the grocery, buying books and supplies at the bookstore, or shopping during a sale, I love getting the best buys!
It's the end of season sale in the metro!
During a recent trip to Malaysia, I had a chance to shop for myself. I was excited to say the least! As I entered the first store, like a trained shopping soldier, I was on a mission: spot what I like and go. As my fellow bloggers were my witnesses (Kring, Jhayvee, and Trixie), I was in and out of every store in 15 minutes with a loot to boot! I got great buys, but it felt like I just bought stuff for a client. OMG. Has shopping for myself become a job too? Nooooooo!
Shopping in Malaysia during my Nuffnang Blog Awards trip.
Yes, shopping has become an arduous task. I’ve been used to shopping with a purpose — hunting for what my clients need and going for the kill that I forgot how to slow down and enjoy the experience of shopping!
Me: “Aryanna, can you go with me to the mall? I want to relax and shop!”
Aryanna: “Shop? You mean sprint! Whatever happened to scoping out the stores at a leisurely pace?”
My human shopping cart. LOL! Thanks Aryanna!
I need to relax. Really. What’s the rush? I have no deadlines to meet. It’s just me and my fantastic plastic (read: credit card)! Haha!
Fancy meeting you here! Hahaha!
It’s the end of season sale in the metro, so it’s a great time to shop. I’m going to take advantage and flex my shopping skills once again. This time, I’m not going to rush. I might even trot to the dressing room (I usually just eyeball the outfits) and try an outfit or two… or three… or more!
Sugar = Shop till you drop! CHOZ! Haha!
Can you remember those times you chose a new vision and passion? Can you remember the FIRE? The DRIVE? The HAPPINESS? I feel alive again— like a girl inside Tiffany’s! Haha!
Breakfast at Tiffany's Holly Golightly: "Did I tell you how divinely and utterly happy I am?"
Guilt-free shopping tips:
Here are some ways to keep your shopping — and your bills — under control:
• Make a list. Buy only what’s on your list or according to how much your budget is. If you don’t know exactly what you want, write a general idea of what you need in your wardrobe.
I suggest that you buy the classics: LBD, men’s white shirt, jeans, jacket/blazer, pumps
• Give yourself a financial reality check. This is the most important thing to consider before you go out for the kill.
• If you’re looking for that shopping high without the sticker shock, there’s always window shopping. I do this often. It’s good training to become a more responsible and happy shopper.
To avoid overspending, walk away from the item, sleep on it, and return the next day if you really want it.
In other news, here’s a little teaser of exciting things to happen on my website:
