Those of you who know me personally know that I am a frequent visitor to Marshall's, TJMaxx, and Ross. Like at least 2-3 times a month. But I've heard from friends and acquaintances that they have a hard time shopping at stores like this because there is two much variety, too many things to look at. The way I see it though, if you have a strict set of fashion rules that you follow, then you can shop anywhere with determination and focus. Constructing your own personal style rules isn't hard, but it takes an understanding of what works on you and what works with your lifestyle & habits. It takes a little trial and error, but you'll be better off once you understand what works for you. You're wallet will thank you too, and save you from impulse buys!
Some of my favorites pieces, all from M/TJM/R!
MY SHOPPING & FASHION RULES
Don't buy something you won't care for. For my lifestyle, being in college and everything, I don't have the time and money to hand wash and dry clean everything. Yes, I have some of those pieces in my closet. But they aren't everyday items. Places like M/TJM/R often have great prices on pieces that were once pricier because they have more care involved. So I always check the tag, even before I try it on! No sense in trying it on if I won't end up buying it because of the care.
Try it on. Then take it home and try it on with your other clothes. The way I see it, you're already in the store, so you might as well try it on. Then take it home and see what it pairs well with in your closet. And if you don't feel like trying it on, then it doesn't need to go in your closet, because the only things that should go in your closet are things that you love. Which leads me to...
Buy what you love. If you even question one thing about it, really consider if you love it. Also, I wait and take the tags off until I'm ready to wash it and wear it, which ensures that I really do want it in my closet. If I haven't taken the tags off after a week or two, and it's an everyday sort of item, then it needs to be returned.
Avoid things that require a camisole, tank, or bandeau. I personally am not a fan of wearing more layers if I don't have to, and I've made the mistake of buying things that required special things like camisoles, or bottoms that can only be worn with a particular pair of panties. In my opinion, a great item stands on it's own, without needing any extra "help."
When in doubt, choose a v-neckline. If your torso is on the short side like mine, v-necklines lengthen the neck and the torso. Scoop necklines are harder for me to pull off without a scarf or long necklace, which I have learned the hard way by rarely wearing the scoop neck tops & dresses I once bought. (Side note, long necklaces also lengthen the torso and make you appear taller!)
Think about how many situations you can wear it in. For me, I have 5 main "situations": everyday class, presentations, sorority chapter, Premier events, and special occasions. If I can find something that works for at least 3 of these situations, that's preferred.
--Caroline
