A personalized “style budget” can keep your shopping habits on track. First estimate the amount you can honestly spend each season, then take some time to think and write out a shopping list. On a sheet of paper, make separate list of Wants, Needs and Essentials for each season. Examples of what to include are beauty-grooming habits- including all salon and spa visits, as well as updated seasonal products on your essential lists. Any items that have top priority to buy, such as a new winter coat, swimsuit for an upcoming vacation, formal wear for a black tie event should be placed on the needs list. Then the want list is simply a fantasy list of things you would love to buy, but don’t necessarily need. Once you get a clear overview, you can budget each category accordingly. Once you get used to doing this each season you will begin to think before you buy…. Saving money here so that you have more money to spend there. It’s a great habit – because shopping debt is never in fashion!
