I just spent the last few days in a "tax-free weekend" Atlanta and amazingly, I didn't buy one thing. And while I didn't make any purchases, I did walk away with a few observations.
What happened to H&M? Is it me or are the selections at my favorite, affordable retailer looking a bit lackluster these days? Sure, there's the standard fare: shirts, skirts, jackets, and so on and so on. But that feeling I used to get when I scored the sweetest pieces for under $100 just doesn't seem to be present. I did find these two dresses for $34.95 each. But other than that and two belts, I couldn't find anything to buy.
I guess this was a good problem to have since I really didn't have any money to spend on shopping. But really, what happened to all those delicious H&M finds? I'm used to hauling an armful of goods to the fitting room and walking away with at least a few great items. Lately it just seems like everything is average and therefore easy for me to leave behind.
Avoid tourist shopping destinations. Why you ask? Because tourists, while essential to local economies, tend to be annoying. I had to listen to two ladies lament about how the shopping selection would be "so much better in New York." Really? Did you have to obtain some kind of shopper's certification to come up with that blatantly obvious perspective? It took everything in me not to say, "Duh." Oh wait, I actually did say that. Out loud. I really should have spent some time at the Virginia-Highlands boutiques (think Mitzi & Romano and Bill Hallman) instead of making two trips to Atlantic Station.
It really is okay not to buy, even when it seems like everything is on sale. It feels good to keep some money in my pocket instead of exchanging it for a new belt or a cute, little shirt. If you find a great sale or a tax-free scenario, only buy if you find things you need or love. Don't just buy for the sake of buying. I can honestly say I don't need any new additions to my wardrobe. So for once, I'm just saying no to shopping. Please don't ask me how long this shopping sabbatical will last. I'm sure there's a Macy's One Day Sale gearing up as I type.
Nosh, I wholeheartedly agree. H & M it not really the same everywhere and I'm not liking the style of the regional buyers. Feels like the Express transistion from young and fun to good office staples to skanky and back to in between...
Posted by: Mo | August 05, 2009 at 11:22 AM
LMAO Okay Mo, that was funny. They're known for having different lines for the different demographics (think Divided and LOGG). But I don't know, even the different lines seem blah to me. Maybe they have the good stuff coming for fall. :)
Posted by: STYLEnosh | August 05, 2009 at 04:18 PM
I bought that grey dress and I love it!
Posted by: Kyl | August 09, 2009 at 01:23 AM