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A few weeks before any speaking engagement, I pick out my outfit which is in alignment with my personal brand. On occasion, I have to go shopping for the right outfit based on the event. Whenever I go shopping for clothes, I have a plan. I know what I’m looking for, I know the styles that look best on me, I know what stores to go to, and I know how much I want to spend. I don’t mindlessly walk around stores wasting my time, my energy, or my money.
Personal shopping can be both exhilarating and overwhelming at the same time. With countless options available and trends constantly changing, it's easy to feel lost in a sea of choices. However, by following some simple tips and strategies, you can shop smarter, save time, and build a wardrobe you love. In this blog, we will dive into the essential steps of personal shopping to help you define your style, set a budget, shop with purpose, and more.
Define Your Style: Before going on a shopping spree, take some time to define your personal style. Consider factors such as your lifestyle, preferences, and the image you want to project. Are you drawn to classic elegance, bohemian chic, or modern minimalism? Understanding your style preferences will make it easier to make targeted and cohesive purchases.
Create a Shopping List: To avoid aimlessly wandering through stores and impulse buys, create a shopping list of items you need or want to add to your wardrobe. Prioritize essentials like versatile basics and pieces that will complement your existing wardrobe. This will help you stay focused and on track during your shopping trips.
Set a Budget: Determining your budget before you start shopping is crucial to avoid overspending and buyer's remorse. Consider how much you're willing to spend and allocate funds accordingly. Remember to prioritize quality over quantity, investing more in timeless, high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time.
Shop with Purpose: When you're in the store or browsing online, shop with intention. Avoid purchasing items just because they're on sale or trendy. Instead, make sure each purchase aligns with your personal style and serves a purpose in your wardrobe. Ask yourself if the item complements your existing wardrobe and if you can see yourself wearing it regularly.
Quality Over Quantity: In the age of fast fashion, it can be tempting to prioritize quantity over quality. However, investing in well-made, high-quality pieces will save you money in the long run. These pieces will last longer, maintain their shape and color, and ultimately save you from having to replace them frequently.
Try Before You Buy: Always try on clothing before making a purchase, especially if you're shopping in-store. Pay attention to fit, comfort, and how the garment makes you feel. If you're shopping online, check the size chart and read reviews to ensure a good fit. Don't hesitate to return or exchange items that don't meet your expectations.
Mix and Match: Look for versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This will help you maximize your wardrobe and get more mileage out of each item. Invest in timeless basics like a tailored blazer, crisp white shirt, and well-fitting jeans that can be styled in various ways.
Consider Your Lifestyle: When shopping, consider your daily activities and the occasions you typically dress for. Invest in clothing that suits your lifestyle and makes you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. Whether you're dressing for work, weekends, or special events, choose pieces that reflect your personal style and meet your practical needs.
Don't Forget Accessories: Accessories are the finishing touches that can elevate any outfit. Invest in quality accessories like shoes, bags, jewelry, and belts to add personality and polish to your looks. Accessories can also help you express your personal style and make a statement without breaking the bank.
Trust Your Instincts: Above all, trust your instincts when shopping. If something doesn't feel right or doesn't align with your personal style, don't force it. Wait for the perfect piece that makes you feel amazing every time you wear it. Remember, personal style is all about expressing yourself and feeling confident in your skin.
By following these personal shopping tips and strategies, you'll shop smarter, save time, and build a wardrobe that truly reflects your unique style and personality. Whether you're revamping your entire wardrobe or just adding a few key pieces, remember to shop with intention, prioritize quality over quantity, and trust your instincts.
Keep on SLAYin' until you can't SLAY no more!
With admiration and support, Rochelle "SLAY Queen" Hemingway
About The Author:
Rochelle "SLAY Queen" Hemingway is a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant with thirty years of leadership experience in the United States Air Force; she is currently a leadership and transformational consultant in the personal and professional development arenas. Rochelle is a certified image consultant with experience in all areas of leadership consulting. She also holds a Master of Science degree in Strategic Leadership.
Nowadays, people seek out Rochelle for advice about body language, conversation, networking etiquette, and wardrobe. As a professional keynote speaker and a self-published author, she has conducted many presentations for the United States Air Force, businesses, and corporations. She also provides one-on-one consultations to women who are working in C-suite executive leadership roles and women who are transitioning from a long career and are looking to improve their image and marketability.
Rochelle started SLAY To Success, LLC to create a world where women step into their authentic personal brand to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with men as influential leaders, decision-makers, and change agents across all sectors.
As the CEO and founder of SLAY To Success LLC, Rochelle empowers professional women with strategies to elevate their image and step up and into their authentic personal brand to gain lucrative opportunities.
The word SLAY means to kill it, to dominate it, and to nail it; to dream and work hard until you own it; to be on point and to impress greatly.
The word SLAY is also an acronym that stands for universal life and leadership philosophies that she implements in her daily life: S-stay ready to be ready, L-lead out loud, A-a sense of family/community, and Y-you are built to last.
Book a free 30-minute call to chat with Rochelle about how she can support you and or your organization's goals. https://www.slaytosuccess.com/service-page/let-s-connect-call
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