The Urge to Splurge

I was very fascinated by an article in the Times recently, which talked about 'The Urge to Splurge'. I think for whatever reason, many of us tend to treat ourselves to fashion and beauty buys on a regular basis, whether we feel we need a reason to do so or not!!

Here are some pictures of things I've treated myself to during the month of April:

Chanel Bag

John Richmond bag

Ralph Lauren skirt


Cropped white blazer

Now, the last three items are thrifted and because the amounts are so minimal, I tend to thrift on a very regular basis and pay cash in the process of doing so. I do try my best though not to buy just anything. Just because items are cheap, they do still need to be of a good quality for me and have a place in my wardrobe.

The Chanel bag was my main 'wishlist' item that I acquired by selling some of my existing dresses that I knew I no longer wanted. So in effect, although it was my most expensive purchase, I didn't actually part with any cash to buy it-it was effectively a 'trade' as such.

So, my main shopping tips are to thrift, which means you can spend a lot less on higher quality items, or evaluate whats in your wardrobe and if you have an item thats an expensive wishlist piece, sell some of your unwanted clothes, bags, shoes or unused beauty products to buy that elusive item you've wanted for ages, without going into debt for it.

Here is what the Times says for a guilt free urge to splurge:

THE ART OF GUILT-FREE SHOPPING

- Ask yourself: “Do I deserve it?” Reasons to answer yes include clearing your credit-card debt, surviving a hideous week at work and not having splurged since Christmas.

- Pay in cold, hard cash. It cuts the guilt factor in half and is the only way to know if you can truly afford it.

- Splash out on something useful. The more you use/wear your purchase, the easier it will be to justify the money spent.

- Spend big at sample sales and outlet stores. Your inner accountant loves a bargain.

- Treat yourself to the most expensive version of everyday basics — tea bags, socks, chocolate. A little bit of luxury goes a long way.