Love Shopping Hate Shopping

So, I have always loved to shop.
I do prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping, (crowds, time, etc). And then there is online shopping. Online shopping can be great. Convenient, quick, sometimes cheaper, and of course plentiful. And what I mean by plentiful is that there is a lot out there, (which can be confusing and/or overwhelming for some).

So,...if you hate shopping and you are one of those who knows they need to do it, but they want it to take up no time at all, LETS JUST GET IT DONE WITH LITTLE OR NO PAIN!!
For those of you like myself...I will get to US later. :)

Here are some tips for those who hate to shop:

For the Mall, try to make a list before you go. What do you need? Try to get an idea as to what stores will carry the things that you need. So for example, if you need shoes, try a Macy's or Nordstrom. They usually have a large selection opposed to going to more of a boutique store like Nine West or Aldo's. DSW would be ever better as they typically have the largest selection.

Need a great pair of jeans? Now this is a tough one. For those who want one of those "trendy" options and you are in the mall, chances are you will have to go to a large dept store which tends to carry a number of fashionable brands, (ie. seven, true religion). Other stores like the Gap or Express will have less to choose from but may have more traditional styles.

If you have a little bit of time, try searching for the product on the web. You could for example type in, "white button down shirts" or "sweaters." Now you will have a list of stores that carry some options. Write them down and figure out which mall as the appropriate store.
And who knows, maybe you will end up buying it on the web. So what if you have to return it?? If you go to the mall you have to spend money on gas right? And lets factor in your time which I am sure is worth something. And what happens if you need a little snack while you are perusing through the mall? How about being able to get up and going to your fridge? Worth something eh?

Tips for those who prefer boutique shopping, (one stop shopping, less crowds, etc).
You can always follow my idea of first searching for the product on the web, (highlighted in green).
I prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping. Parking is typically easier, less crowds, and I can be more focused on what I want. In, out, done. And with boutiques, you can ask the sales clerk to help you find exactly what you are looking for. And typically if they do not have it, they will get it for you. I found a great pair of shoes recently and they did not have my size. No worries, they ordered it for me! Now that is service. Some places will even mail it to your home with no extra charge.

With Boutiques, you can drop in on your way home for work, whatever. Keep a list somewhere, (in your PDA, wallet, etc) of which stores you prefer. This way, when you need something you can grab and go. :)

INTERNET SHOPPING...

So for many, this can just be way to overwhelming.
Tip 1: type in what you are looking for, try to be as specific as possible.
Tip 2: Keep a running list of stores that you prefer. Try organizing them in your favorites center. If you are not sure how to do this, go to: http://websearch.about.com/od/internetresearch/a/favorites.htm
Now you can organize by fashion item, (favorite sweater stores, shoe stores, etc).
Tip 3: Don't forget to look up coupons. So for example if you are buying from Victoria's Secret, type in "Victoria's Secret Coupons." Most online stores offer some kind of deal for purchasing on line. GO CRAZY!!

Now I know that the whole size thing can be an issue. Most people need to try on before they buy. First find out what the return policy is, (www.zappos.com) has free returns. If you are unsure give them a call. Maybe they will offer it up for free.
And maybe if you definitely need to try on anything before you buy and you do not want to deal with the hassle of returning, try just buying items that you should not have to return. Accessories like scarves, jewlery, belts, hats, etc. Typically sweaters, cardigans, button downs, etc are okay as well.

And remember, I am here for you. I am one of those who loves to shop...I can help!
HAPPY SHOPPING!!!!