How To Be A More Mindful Shopper

As a stylist who shops for a living, it’s super important that I maintain a strict guideline for what’s purchase worthy. Whether I’m working within a commercial photo shoot budget, or complying to a private client’s wishes, it’s up to me to ensure that each and every item makes perfect sense to complete the vision (or closet) – I must practice mindful shopping!

And while shopping definitely has its moments of fun, it can also be a frustrating experience filled with defeat.

Have you ever searched desperately for The Dress, and just couldn’t seem to make it happen?
Perhaps it the chaos of the scene that got the best of your Saturday shop session. Or maybe the overheated, overcrowded dressing room got in the way. 

The key to overriding a shopping frenzy, and making purchases that fit mind, body and soul is to stay mindful.

How To Practice Mindful Shopping

1. Get grounded.  Move slowly.

I know it seems weird, but you can take a meditative approach to your shopping. By grounding into your body you’ll help keep your emotions at bay. This will be really beneficial when it’s time to decide what to purchase. You don’t want to make decisions based on your emotions, but rather how the clothes actually feel on your body. So slow down while making your way through the store…don’t let your brain get ahead of you!

2. Pay mind to the price.

This is pretty straight forward. Kind of like a shoe –either it fits or it doesn’t. Does this item fit into your budget?

3. Consider color.

Once you’ve deemed something worthwhile take a good look at its color. Will it flatter your skin tone?  At this point in life, we all have a pretty good idea of what colors look good on us — if the piece you’re examining doesn’t fall into that palette…move on. If it could work, you’re ready for the next step.

4. Study silhouettes.

Each of us has a unique shape and certain styles will enhance our assets. I’m petite, so too much drapey fabric drowns me. If you’re curvy, then a nipped in waist will suit you well. Hold the item up to you, if there’s a mirror even better. Does this piece appeal to your body type?

5. Analyze fit.

Once you’ve made it to the dressing room, the real work begins. Remember to stay grounded. Keep your awareness in your body and with your breath. When you’ve got the garment on, notice how it sits on your skin. Too snug in the tummy? Too loose in the shoulders? If it looks right, then how does it fit your lifestyle? Is it too short so every time you bend down to pick up your kid the hemline creeps up too high on your thighs?
And lastly, how does it fit into your definition of your best style? Does it say what you want to say?

By taking a more mindful approach to your shopping you’ll make better purchases, and enhance your overall style with pieces that feel like you.

How do you practice mindful shopping?