External Validation aka Shopping

There are a couple of key elements to keep in mind when shopping for clothing.

First of all I'm not sure that shopping is the correct term.

Shopping is the examining of goods or services from retailers with the intent to purchase at that time. Shopping is an activity of selection and/or purchase.  - Thanks Wikipedia. It all sounds so impersonal. What are we doing, buying a refrigerator? 

I would rather call it "external validation".

A great deal of emphasis is put on validating ourselves from the inside out. Many books have been written on the subject of "an inside job". Yoga studios and meditation centers abound in major cities. All of these practices are not only good for you, they are also necessary for a less stressful way to get through life. Knowing yourself and being comfortable with who you are is essential for personal growth............and so is the way you look!

Looking good will directly and immediately influence the way you feel. We can spend a lot of time on that subject - and we will - but today I want to talk about the basics of the external validation experience aka shopping.

The Body
1. Know your body - There's no such thing as the perfect body. We all have flaws that need to be addressed when choosing the clothes we wear. Yes sometimes a six pack stomach can create a problem when choosing the proper slacks.

2. Know your sizes - Most men do not know their sizes and tend to buy sizes bigger than they need.

3. Know your fit. - It is a myth that wearing baggier clothes make you look thinner. It is the absolute opposite. Wearing baggy clothes makes you look like you're wearing baggy clothes.

4. Know what colors work best with your skin tones. - Avoid colors that wash you out. Orange and greens are not colors that work for everyone.

The Experience
1. Always try on the clothes before buying - Trying on your clothes will save you time and money in the long run. Take a minute to go into the dressing room and try the clothes on. Look in the mirror. Remember the mirror is you friend, it will never lie to you.

2. Stop impulsive buying - It's easy to go into a fashion blackout once you feel that high from your first purchase. Before you know it you're buying anything and everything in the store. Don't do that, you'll regret it later.

3. Stay away from big department stores whenever possible - If you are new to the world of shopping or just don't like doing it, you want to stay away from big department stores or major franchise. The experience can be overwhelming. Too much of a good thing is bad. Shop in smaller shops where it is more manageable.
4. Shop with a buddy - It is always best to shop with a buddy - or someone close to you - who is not afraid to tell you the truth and/or can encourage to take chances..

5. Find a stylist you can trust - I'm not talking about a private stylist that will charge you a fee. - Although if you can afford one, it could be quite helpful. - I'm talking about finding a salesperson with experience who has your best interest at heart and is not desperate to make his numbers for the month.

6. Avoid shopping in a bad mood - If you are feeling upset or out of sorts, it may not be the proper time to go shopping.  Shopping is always better when you're in a clear state of mind.
Except for those engaging in retail therapy, which can be very effective and I will be writing about that subject very soon.

7. Set a budget for yourself - It is always best to have a realistic budget in mind when going shopping. Familiarize yourself with today's price points and know which store best suits your budget.Shopping beyond your means can be a very unpleasant experience.

There's nothing negative about shopping when done properly.  I suggest you follow these simple suggestions and you will not only have a successful experience, I guarantee you will have a fun time doing it and feel great about yourself when you're done.

For any question regarding personal shopping or styling, you can contact me at:  vincentspov@gmail.com