A checklist for buying clothes

Shopping for clothes is a fun and exciting experience. However, it’s easy to get carried away by the numerous choices available, brand advertisements and prevailing fashion trends. Having a checklist for buying clothes can help you save time, money, and even the environment – while helping you create a stylish yet sustainable wardrobe! Here’s a comprehensive list of what to consider, to guide your fashion choices:

1. Do I need it?

Ask yourself this essential question before pulling out your credit card. Do you really need the piece, or could this be an impulse purchase you may regret later? For instance, do you require a playsuit to wear on a vacation this summer? Or did you simply happen to see something in the store window that you felt you must buy? A good rule to follow is to buy what you need, what adds value to your wardrobe instead of just overcrowding it. 

2. Is it versatile?

Do you think you can pair this piece with what you already own? How many outfits can you create with it? Does it complement other items of clothing in your wardrobe? Consider a chic pair of off-white shorts you’re contemplating buying. This versatile piece can be worn with a summery top or shirt of any colour for the beach, or styled with a monochrome vest and off-white jacket for a more sophisticated look. Versatile pieces can help you create more ensembles without buying more separates. 

3. Is it well-tailored?

Quality is of utmost importance when buying clothes. Before you purchase an item, check the stitching, the fabric and the overall finish. High-quality pieces usually ensure comfort, durability and style. Take for example, a skirt. Does it have a lining – and is it big enough to be comfortable when you sit, or walk? Make sure your garment is functional as well as aesthetic – else you may not wear it. Don’t hesitate to open your wallet some more for well-tailored clothing that can withstand time and trends. An item made with attention to detail and quality materials is an investment that will pay off in the long run.

4. Does it fit perfectly?

It doesn’t matter how beautiful a dress looks on a mannequin – it matters how it looks on you, and the right fit is crucial for this. Take a moment to try on and examine which cuts and silhouettes flatter your figure. When trying on clothes, also stretch your hands to see if you can move comfortably in a dress or top. If you’re trying on pants, sit down to check the same. The perfect fit will not just enhance your overall appearance, it will also boost your confidence while keeping you comfy. 

5. What is the environmental impact?

It’s essential to consider the environmental impact of your fashion choices and be more eco-conscious and responsible when buying clothes. Start with checking the materials used and buy items made from sustainable fabrics. Garments cut from organic or sustainable materials such as cotton, linen and viscose, often have a smaller environmental footprint. Avoid sequins and other plastic embellishments, no matter how dazzling they look in year-end outfits, as these are non-biodegradable. Look out for the MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX and Bluesign certifications which specify requirements for chemicals used during the manufacturing process. Both ensure that the product has been made within strict, environmentally-friendly criteria. You could also research the brand’s sustainability practices and consider buying from companies that prioritize ethical production. Here’s a guide to sustainable fashion for a mindful approach to what you wear.

6. Will I care for this piece?

Some clothes require more care than others. Wool and silk need to be hand washed or dry cleaned as opposed to cottons that can be machine washed with ease. Ask yourself if you’re willing to invest in the time and energy for an item’s upkeep, or would you rather pick something that’s low-maintenance? Make your purchase accordingly. 

7. Will I still wear this in 5 years?

Longevity matters, as does the timelessness of a piece. Fast fashion trends keep changing but there are classics, like the little black dress, which outlive time and trend. Such classic, well-crafted pieces will be wardrobe essentials that you can enjoy wearing for years. If you think you’ll wear it in the years to come, it’s likely a smart investment!

8. Can I afford it?

If the garment you’ve selected has passed all the questions so far, it’s time to ask yourself if you can purchase it without sacrificing other essentials or going into debt. Just remember that while clothes are necessary, luxury clothes are optional. You could try balancing higher-end items with affordable ones without overspending. Creating a clothing budget could also help.

9. Will I be able to buy this at a sale?

Sales can be a great opportunity to snag high-quality items at discounted prices, however don’t rely on them solely for getting the pieces you want. You may not find your size, or even the item you want. It’s also tempting to buy more than what you need at sales, so take a moment to reflect on this list before making a purchase decision.

10. Trust your instinct but don’t get carried away

When clothes shopping, go with your gut to buy pieces that feel right for you. Nevertheless, watch out for impulse purchases that you may regret later. If you’re not sure about a piece, it’s always okay to walk away and come back later with a clearer perspective.

Buying clothes can be fun, but following these tips will ensure that your purchases are well thought-out, fit your style and requirements, and align with your values. The goal is to create a wardrobe that is elegant, functional and sustainable; one that reflects your unique style personality. This checklist for buying clothes can help you shop smarter and enjoy your ensembles for years. 

At JULIETTE C, our effortlessly chic collection of women’s clothes is elegant, conscious, flattering, and very pleasant to wear. We strive to offer our customers the best value for their money and dress them in styles that they feel confident and beautiful in. 

We also proudly uphold sustainable fashion. We create limited collections of timeless pieces and champion slow fashion through natural fabrics and employ local, traditional techniques. 

You can get in touch if you have any questions about how to buy clothes or want to discuss anything fashion-related! 

Please visit our website to discover our timeless French fashion for women.