Every year at Thanksgiving, I cook dinner for a small crowd of friends and family. I know exactly what’s on the menu for this very special day of gathering and eating, but I still dig out all my recipes the week before to stock up on the ingredients.
I wouldn’t dream of shopping without this list for Thanksgiving – just as I never shop for clothing without a list.
I know, it seems a little weird. We grocery shop with lists, but clothes shopping is usually treated as a more fun and exciting affair. We pick a shopping venue and we just go, hoping the right garments will magically reveal themselves to us. But, often, we just wander around the mall buying the wrong stuff.
However, I’m going to show you an easy and effective way to plan a shopping trip from which you will emerge with the perfect items for your wardrobe.
1.) Evaluate what’s in your closet. Take a look in there and see what might be missing for you. I did a survey earlier this year and I found the types of clothing which are most lacking in a wardrobe are the following: professional tops, casual skirts, shorts, casual pants and belts.
2.) Make a list. Yup, just like a grocery list. And, much like grocery shopping, you may need to go to more than one place – so note it on your list.
3.) Stay focused. I know shopping can be overwhelming, that’s why you’ve got your list. For example, I’ve got “professional style dresses” on my list and I’ve noted that I think I can find them at Ann Taylor. When I walk into Ann Taylor, I’m going to walk past all the tops and jackets and jewelry displays and overcrowded sale rack – and go right for where the professional dresses are.
So now, you have a list of items you need and where to find them. Just don’t forget to take it with you!
