Save Money while Shopping and save the Environment too!
Shopping is an activity that most of us think is fun and enjoyable and sometimes also a great stress reliever. Since the 1950-1960 consumerism has taken giant leaps. Back then we didn't know what consequences it would have on our planet but today we know better, so why are we not consuming with more thought for the planet? We have some tips on how you can shop and save money at the same time while doing your part for the planet and the future of mankind.
1. ADJUST HOW YOU SPEND YOUR MONEY
It's not about how much we spend but how we spend it. The trick is to get value for money not short term but long term. It's always a good idea to invest in clothes that can be worn for more than one occasion or purpose. Instead of buying a lot of clothes or saving up to buy one very expensive item, opt for quality items that you can wear for different occasions. After a while you will have a high quality wardrobe your friends will admire.
2. CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE TO SHOPPING
Give your style a thought and build a wardrobe with base items that can be dressed up or down and matched for different looks. Shop with a purpose and make sure that what you buy will not end up at the back of your closet. The latest fashion is no longer about getting that item from the latest season, it's all about personality through styling.
Start with figuring out what your base colour in your wardrobe would be. You can choose a few base colours and add coloured items or accessories to spice it up for variation and different moods. If you do this well, you will only need a few core items that you can style into a lot of different outfits.
Buy items that you love, take care of them and they will last a long time.
3. SET A BUDGET
Budget your purchases and stick to the plan. A normal monthly budget for purchasing of clothes is around 5% of your monthly salary. Avoid impulse purchases and don't fall for sale items unless the item is on your shopping list. Purchasing many cheap things will end up much more expensive in the long run than buying fewer quality items that'll last long.
4. REWARDS AND LOYALTY PROGRAMS
Many companies have reward programs, check them out to find out how they work and use them for great deals. Some loyalty programs let you earn point as you buy, other loyalty programs have more options for you to earn points through recommendations or writing reviews.
You can check out Outfyt's rewards here
5. LOOK FOR SECOND HAND
Second-hand shopping can be more fun than you think. With some luck you can find unique items that can't be found in-store anymore. Some brands may have great second-hand options, so make sure to search them out.
Outfyt has a Second Life program where you can find items that have been used as model or display samples along with factory defected items and second-hand items.
Check out Second Life here
6. ONLINE DISCOUNTS
Instead of shopping in-store, try purchasing the item online instead. Many companies offer a discount for your first purchase on-line. Shops and boutiques are great options for you if you would like to know more about the brand and their products as well as try items on for a good fit. If you aren't sure about the fit try in-store first or check out the brand's return and exchange policy before purchase.
Many stores have discount codes in collaboration with influencers or other partners, make sure to check them out before you click that buy now button!
7. SAVE ON DELIVERY
Free shipping of a purchase that adds up to a certain amount is great. Team up with a friend to bump the amount up and get free shipping. Supporting local is also another good reason for not paying that extra amount for shipping and tax. You can also opt for in-store collection if the store isn't out of your way.
8. COMPARE BEFORE YOU BUY
Some items may be sold by different shops at different price. Google to compare prices to get the best deal possible.
9. DON'T BUY HIGH MAINTENANCE CLOTHES
Avoid purchasing items that will cost you money after you have bought them. Check the washing instructions before you buy and avoid items that need dry cleaning.
9. DON'T FALL INTO THE FAST FASHION TRAP
Don't fall for fast fashion, fast fashion brands don't only sell poor quality clothes they are very bad for sustainability and for mother earth. Most fast fashion brands are unethical towards their workers too.
You can read more about fast fashion here and why you should keep away from these brands.
