As a style consultant, I’ve witnessed clients hesitate at the idea of paying full price for an item they truly love instead of scouring sales racks or second-hand options. While these methods can sometimes result in found treasures, they often leave us questioning even more about our wardrobes and, honestly, our style too. And here is why:
How Sales Impact Our Relationship with Clothes
Purchasing something from a sales rack often creates a different emotional connection with the item. If we don’t pay much for something, we may not value it as highly. It’s easy to dismiss a £10 top as disposable, but when you invest in a well-made £70 blouse that aligns with your style, you treat it with care, wear it more often, and cherish how it makes you feel.
Constantly shopping sales can also reinforce a mindset that we’re only worthy of “bargains.” This mindset may seem harmless at first but can grow into a pattern of settling—settling for less than what we truly desire, for items that don’t quite fit, or for colours that don’t spark joy. Over time, this can subtly erode our sense of self-worth.
I’ve been there myself, circling the sales racks and convincing myself I was saving money. But over time, I noticed that those “bargains” rarely brought me joy. Instead, they contributed to a wardrobe that felt meaningless—full of clothes that didn’t truly represent me and often ended up unworn. I’ve seen other women go through the same cycle, filling their wardrobes with impulse purchases that don’t improve their style or confidence.
This approach not only leaves us dissatisfied but also leads to waste, both in our wardrobes and in the environment, ( and your wallet!)
Breaking this cycle starts with a shift in how we value our purchases and, ultimately, ourselves.
Invest, in your own way.
When you choose to spend thoughtfully on pieces that fit you well, complement your style, and align with your values, you’re making a personal decision about what holds value in your life. It’s not about the price tag, but about finding items that resonate with you and enhance your wardrobe in a meaningful way.
While I believe in the power of investing in high-quality pieces, I have realised from my experience that not every high-quality piece will align with your style and persona. So you will know what aligns with you. It's about levelling up to the next level you feel comfortable in, whether that is style, being more modern, wearing more colours, or buying a high-quality piece. You will send a powerful message to yourself:
“I am worth it.”
Investing in something that fits you perfectly, complements your style, and aligns with your values allows you to appreciate your wardrobe—and yourself—more meaningfully.
The Illusion of “Savings”
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking sales save money, but let’s reframe that narrative. Buying a discounted item you don’t truly love or need isn’t saving; it’s spending unnecessarily. Those “savings” add up to a wardrobe full of items that don’t serve you, leaving you with less money to invest in pieces that truly matter.
Instead, consider the cost-per-wear of an item. A £200 coat worn 50 times over several seasons costs you £4 per wear, while a £40 sale item worn twice costs £20 per wear. By this logic, investing in quality pieces you love often makes better financial sense in the long run.
Shifting the Mindset
To break free from the sales rack cycle, start by redefining how you shop:
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity:
Aim to curate a wardrobe of long-lasting pieces that work together, rather than chasing trends or bargains.
Assess True Value: Before buying, ask yourself: “Would I pay full price for this? Does this piece align with my style and lifestyle?”
Embrace Mindful Shopping: Focus on intentional purchases that spark joy and reflect your authentic self.
Reframe “Sales”: Recognize that sales aren’t about you saving money but about retailers maximising their profits. Shift your focus to investing in yourself and your long-term style.
I get it, so other women like you.
Believe me, I get it—stepping away from the allure of discounts is no easy feat. It takes practice, patience, and a bit of willpower to walk past that tempting “70% off” sign. But when you start to see the difference it makes in your wardrobe (and your confidence), you’ll realise it’s worth every effort—and hey, you might even have a little fun along the way!
Where to start
In your own wardrobe. Right there is the information to know where you are, and where you want to get to, defining your style GOALS. Book a one-hour online session to assess your style and your wardrobe.
See you there!
Comments