Category: Shopping
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When Size Really Doesn't Matter

Most of us have a desire to fit into a certain size of clothing but to be honest, it's how it looks on you, not the size on the label.
In Australian sizing, I'm a size 10 on average but my wardrobe ranges from XS to XL. In cheaper labels (e.g. TEMT) I'll often go up a size as they tend to be skimpier cuts (plus my upper arms are larger than average for my size!) and looser fits are often more flattering. Or sometimes my ideal size is sold out and the next size up looks fine.
I'm not precious about sizing but if clients I'm shopping with are...I threaten to cut off the labels!
Sizing varies around the globe. In Thailand the average woman is quite petite so I start with the larger sizes there. Occasionally even the largest doesn't fit me and I stomp out feeling like an elephant. Whereas in the US...I can fit into size 2 pants and feel as light as a feather.
Hmmm...I guess those labels do affect my psyche after all...
Posted by Prue Bartels on: Wed Jul 13th at 11:03:40 PM
Shopping Truths
You really don't need to spend a fortune to look great. You just need to:
- understand what suits you
- know what you are looking for
- develop a discerning eye for items that look worth more than they cost
- know where to look!
When shopping with clients, I turn on my shopping radar. As I look around a store "blimp, blimp" goes my radar as I spot items that are most likely to look fabulous on my client.
If they meet the colour and style criteria for my client, I don't care if items look ordinary or shapeless on the rack. At the end of the day, its how they look ON that counts.
I've had such overwhelming success over the years that I've learnt to deal with any resistance. Many times I've shoved (oops! I mean placed) a protesting client in a fitting room with a most suspicious looking item only to hear her utter a certain little sound. Its a cross between an "oh" and "hmmmmm", almost a "well I'll be darned" sound. I call it a Moment of Truth!
Posted by Prue Bartels on: Fri Nov 12th at 11:51:22 PM
Shopping Tips For Summer
I love shopping, especially when I’m employed to put a whole wardrobe together for someone (or when I find wonderful buys for myself!)
There are always clothes out there that will look wonderful on you but I constantly hear the comment "I can't find anything that suits me!".
So why can’t you find them? Usually its because you’re overlooking their potential. Many times when shopping with someone, I hear another comment “I would never have chosen these clothes myself!” Of course, image is my business so I know exactly what to select for you……
Nevertheless, here are some guidelines to help you become a confident, successful shopper:
· Do your seasonal closet cleaning first
· Assess your current wardrobe needs
· Shop with a wardrobe plan for specific items
· Know your best colours and styles
· Set a realistic clothing budget and stick to it
· Shop alone, so as not to be influenced by others, at your own pace
· Dress for the hunt – wear clothing that’s easy to slip on and off
· Look well-groomed, and wear appropriate shoes and underwear
· Be daring - try on clothing you wouldn’t normally consider
· Consider items that meet your colour and style criteria, even if they look ordinary on the hanger
· Ignore the size tag – a good fit is more important
· Do the stretch and bend test – comfort is as important as the look
· Look at yourself in the mirror from all angles
· Make sure any new pieces co-ordinate with what you have
· Spend the most on the clothes you wear the most
· Avoid last-minute or hurried shopping for a special outfit
And remember…… “Love It Madly, Need It Badly, Or Don’t Buy It !”
Posted by Prue Bartels on: Fri Nov 5th at 12:56:42 AM