Cha Cha Living: 50% Off… How Sales Can Actually RUIN Your Closet

No matter the shop or the country, a big bright “sale” sign always gets my blood pumping. That thrill that the perfect pair of shoes is inside the store for 1/3 of the price - allowing you to brag to your friends about the $40 pair of Prada heels you scored.

(I think it said last call, but no need for translation to know what -10% means)

It’s almost like your favorite team winning the Superbowl (which I did not recently feel). But just imagine one of your proudest accomplishments (shoes at a bargain price) and then showing them off and reminding everyone of how thrifty you are in this economy, yet not giving up fashion for frugality.

But that is where you must do a full stop, and consider the pricing strategy of retail stores, and take a hard look at what you really need versus what your subconscious is telling you to buy.

No, I am not going to school you on pricing strategies, and the 4 P’s of marketing. Rather, some tips to tackle the big “S” word when shopping.

Take a Deep Breath. Whether it is online or walking by a store, take a deep breath before you proceed. I mean a big one that allows for a pause and some reflection time to combat that racing heartbeat that makes your brain act irrationally.
Think. Seriously think about what you need in your closet before you enter the online or in person shopping forum. Whatever you have to do…tell your friend…write it down…but think about what you really need before you buy.
Price. What item do you really need, and what price are you willing to pay. I don’t care if it is 99% off…if you don’t need it and won’t wear it, you are simply adding to the clutter in your closet. So, if you need a black pair of pants, and your budget is $150…give equal attention to all pairs regardless of their percentage off.
Sales don’t equal love. Do you ever bring yourself in front of a sales rack with 40 pairs of some interesting looking top. Ever wonder why there are 40 of them at 50% off? Either the sales person forgot to initially stock, or there is a reason why they didn’t sell.
Banish the Brain. Ok, you need to think about what you are buying, but push the “it’s on sale” voice off your right shoulder, and seriously think about how this will fit into your current closet and needs. If you are holding on to a bright red pair of suede stilettos, be sure that they aren’t going to stare at you from a corner for the next year.