Going clothes shopping for fun can be a great way to let off steam, treat yourself, and boost your self-confidence with a fresh outfit or two. However, shopping too often and spending too much has an array of unpleasant consequences.
Often, shopping addicts don’t know when they’re spending too much time or money on clothing purchases. The average person in the U.S. spends about $1,800 on clothing every year, but few people track every dollar that goes towards their wardrobe. To recognize an unhealthy relationship with clothes shopping, observing your activities might be more practical than tracking the money you spend.
If any of the following behaviors sound like you, it could be time to curb your clothes shopping habits:
1. You Hide Your Purchases
This is a classic signal that you’re spending too much on clothing, and you know it. If you feel compelled to hide clothing purchases or receipts from your roommate, parent, or significant other, the problem has already advanced enough to impact your relationships with others. Time for an intervention.
2. You Prefer to Shop Alone
Other, more subtle habits could indicate you’re a borderline shopaholic. If you prefer to shop alone, you may be unknowingly trying to hide your money decisions from others so you don’t have to justify your choices. Try taking a friend next time to help check your spending and to enjoy the social experience of shopping.
3. Many Of Your Clothes Still Have The Tags On
If you seem to have nothing to wear even though your closet is full of brand-new items, take a closer look at your spending habits. Any clothing purchase that you don’t wear is a waste of cash. Owning too many unworn clothes indicates that you enjoy the process of buying something more than you actually like the item.
4. You Justify Shopping with Deals
Deals will keep coming back, but the money you spend won’t. Before each purchase, ask yourself why you’re buying an item. If it’s just because the blouse or shoes are on sale, put them back. If you’re not sure, try waiting 24 hours, and coming back to buy the item if you really still want it.
If you catch yourself exhibiting any of these behaviors, you might be a compulsive spender. Talk to your family or start constructing a budget to get better control of your clothes shopping. With patience and honesty, you’ll be able to limit overspending and get more enjoyment out of the clothes you already have.
Leave a Reply