How to Avoid Buying Something You'll Never Wear

Are you sick of seeing that same gorgeous but seemingly unwearable top, jacket, or sweater in your closet? Do you get angst, feeling guilty that you can’t return something you absolutely loved in the store that doesn’t go with anything you have? Do you start getting up the nerve to wear the edgy-looking top you bought while in London, only to quake with nervous spasms when you get out the door? It might be thrilling to buy something you admire but that is beyond your comfort zone, and it is fun to wear pieces that are unique. Yet it’s no fun to stare at the same expensive item over and over again, feeling almost intimidated by it.

If you’ve had an experience buying and never wearing an item of clothing, you are not alone. Thrift and secondhand stores are made of such pieces. I've bought many of these garments, with original price tags attached. Here are three tips to creating an outfit from the piece or resolving your guilt, anxiety, or self-criticism:

1. Email a picture of you in the item to a stylist. You can send me the picture at Elizabeth.P.Gibbens@gmail.com. Ask whether or not the clothing can be adopted into an outfit, altered, or otherwise rescued.
2. If you haven’t worn the item, it might be a prime candidate for consignment. Try selling it at a used clothing store in your area or online at a site such as Poshmark, Material Wrld, or Vinted.
3. Next time you are in the mood to shop, make sure each piece of clothing you buy goes with at least three things in your closet. If you can't remember while you're at the store, put the item on hold (or save the URL if online) and think about it overnight. If there isn’t time, forget about it. Leave the item in the store. You’ll keep your money in your pocket, and your mind will feel unburdened.