Clothing Doctor

Shopping Tips

Consider using a Personal Shopper at Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and other fine stores. In most cases, the service is free and the advice and time savings is unparalleled.

Look good and feel good so the clothing looks good on you. To make the most of your shopping experience, have a plan! Before you leave your home, grab any merchandise returns, store credits, and gift certificates. Wear easy on / easy off clothing and shoes; if you’re buying a gown, bring your own heels – don’t approximate; if you need a strapless bra or pantyhose, bring them along.
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Find a salesperson that you like, tell them that you’re going to buy, but that you need service and attention.
Spend 15-20 minutes on the sales floor to round up all possible winners – even if that means that you collect 15-20 pieces – before heading to the dressing room. Ask the salesperson to hand you in 5 garments at a time. This will reduce the amount of return trips to the sales floor and increase the percentage of winners.
Look at the big picture when you shop for clothing; how to wear, care for, clean and store a garment for its entire life.

Every time you buy a new garment, discard or donate an old one.
Reduce damage on silk, satin and velvet skirts and pants by only using "smooth" clip hangers.
Resist using hangers with ridges or "teeth" that can crush or mar the surface of the fabric.

During holidays, the best time to shop is early in the mornings, especially on the weekends. The largest crowds are after lunch and after dinner.
For Christmas, try to be done with the majority of your shopping by December 5th.

When shopping for a partner, remember these hints:
Peek in their closets and take note of sizes, colors and style preferences
If your partner is into collectibles, then add to that collection.
Accessories can make a great gift; scarves, belts, jewelry, socks and gloves. Buy something frivolous that your partner wouldn’t buy for themselves.
It’s ok to simple ask what your partner wants. Window shop and look at catalogues together. Don’t be shy about this, it just means that you care!