What Should I Do With My Catalogs?
Dear Glam Gals,
I know holiday time is nearing because my mail box is bulging at the rivets! I have shopped by catalog for convince, now it seems as if I receive every catalog ever printed! I would like some advice from the professionals; so I am going straight to the Glam Gals. What is the best way to approach my (growing) catalog pile? I know, I should begin by putting my VISA away and develop a plan (I have listened to you!) But what is next? What is the plan??
Sincerely,
Shops-By-Phone
Hi Shops-By-Phone!
When it comes to getting all those catalogs it can be rather overwhelming. When it comes to the question, should I or shouldn’t I buy from them we say, please by all means put that Visa away… we would much rather you get your body into the store and try things on, than buy from a catalog. However, that being said, we actually think these catalogs are a great tool to use in making your shopping plan.
So…here are 10 tips to what to do with all those catalogs:
1) Read catalogs like you would a fashion magazine. Look at what trends are coming in style, look at what colors they are showing. This will give you a good feel for how you might update your wardrobe for the coming season.
2) Be picky about which catalogs you read. Throw out the rest. Don’t be tempted to read the ones that are not worthy.
3) Catalogs we like are Nordstrom, Neiman-Marcus, Saks, any high end store. For casual, we like Banana Republic, Anthropology, and even J. Crew has got some great finds!
4) Catalogs we think will get you off track are Coldwater Creek, Chico’s, Talbots, anything too “earth cookie” will make you look matronly and uninspired.
5) Just remember, there are good and bad styles in all catalogs, because they have to sell to all types of tastes. Its not how much it costs; it is how it looks, fits and how much you love it.
6) You should not buy things from catalogs if you can help it. It is always better to go to the store when possible and try things on.
7) Use catalogs to inspire you to try to imitate a “look” if you have a budget. One of our favorite stores for a great bargain is H and M. They do a great job of selling clothes that have lots of style and a low price tag.
8 ) If you do buy from a catalog, go ahead and buy 2 different sizes so you can try them both on and return the one that does not fit. It’s very hard to buy things and have them fit the first time around. If you love it, and it needs a little alteration, get it done. Never feel guilty about getting something altered. Its so important that your clothes fit your unique body and its almost impossible for anyone to buy something that does not need a little nip or tuck here and there.
9) Only keep things that you absolutely LOVE and adore…most people get things from a catalog, and keep it, even if it is less than wonderful.
10) Finally, start noticing what colors they put the models in. Usually they put the right color on the right model. If you are unsure of what colors look good on you, find the models with your coloring and go for that . The jacket or top in colors that look good on you are key to looking great!
Good Luck!
