Women that love shopping have likely learned a few major life lessons while perusing the racks, from patience and forbearance to how to identify the difference between a need and a want (because, truly, it exists). Herewith, ten different truths you've lived while shopping.
1. Patience is a virtue.
It's always tempting to rush, but reining yourself in can reap big rewards. Nowhere is that universal lesson clearer than in fashion, where buying immediately can cost you hundreds of dollars more than waiting to see whether something you were eyeing pops up in end-of-season clearances.
2. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
It feels good when a friend buys something after being inspired by an item you wore, right? It's what fashion is all about, whether you're shopping for something you saw walk down a runway or out of a pal's apartment.
3. Love at first sight is alive and real.
Skeptics only need shop a little more to find out that head-over-heels love can hit hard and fast. Some pieces win you over slowly after you spot them on celebs or in street style shots; others grab your attention the minute you spot it and never let go.
4. Go all in when something feels right.
Wavering between options when it comes to career or relationship? Think back to how you handle a choice at the cash register. If you know deep in the pit of your stomach you'll wear the absolute crap out of something, it's worth spending a little bit more and walking away satisfied. If you're not sure, put it back on the shelf.
5. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it.
The smartest shoppers know that some pieces just don't have hanger appeal. Spending the time to try it on and considering whether alterations will result in an improved fit is never a bad idea. The maxim holds true for devoting energy to a fitness routine, relationship, or an extra dose of studying: investing time leads to the best reward.
6. You have room in your heart for everyone.
The best thing about the human heart is that it's expandable, always able to stretch to allow new people in. Lest you need reminding, think of your closet. There's never been a time when you said, "That's it, I love the clothes I have right now too much to possibly go shopping again," right? Right.
7. Assumptions are no good.
Shop with an open mind always because you never know what you'll find. A nondescript secondhand store can turn up treasures and a brand you've always ignored could have something you're perpetually hunting for. Those shopping surprises teach a pretty stellar listen: approach fresh situations and meeting new people with zero preconceived notions.
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8. You'll have bad relationships—learn from them.
We've all suffered through a drawn-out relationship with a piece of clothing that just didn't fit or feel right, only to realize how absolutely freeing it was to donate or sell it. Don't apologize for the mistake, but learn from it, keeping them in mind when shopping.
9. To thine own self be true.
At least once you've likely lusted after something like crazy, only to find it and realize, for whatever reason, it doesn't sparkle as much in person. Rather than force it, let the dream go and accept that not everything is going to be right for you (no matter how buzzy).
10. Preparation is key.
Super shoppers work for a lot of their best steals, researching an item, price-comparing, and prioritizing wants and desires before they even step foot in the store. A stylish stitch in time definitely saves nine.
