Stress-free holiday shopping starts here! Come along with me! 

If your calendar looks anything like mine this season, you’re  juggling work, travel, family, and holiday parties. And somewhere in that mix… you’ll probably end up shopping.

Whether it’s hitting the holiday sales for yourself or crossing names off your gift list, a little strategy can save you a ton of time and frustration.

Here are some of my favorite shopping tips, the same ones I teach my clients, to help you shop smarter, stay focused, and avoid coming home with things that end up forgotten in the back of your closet.

Your Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Guide: 6 Tips to Skip the Overwhelm

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #1: Go in with a plan

Wandering around and hoping for inspiration is fun when you’re on vacation.
But during the holidays? That’s how you end up with random pieces you never wear… or a gift they smile politely at and quietly return.

Take a little time to decide:

• What you need
• Where you’re going shopping
• What your budget is

You’ll be amazed at how much easier shopping feels with even a loose plan.

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #2: Think in outfits instead of “pieces”

This one is HUGE!

When you see something you’re sure you can’t live without...or it’s a bargain you can’t pass by, PAUSE and think about how you’d wear it.

If it doesn’t go with 2–3 things you already own, it might not be such a great buy. 

Following this tip:

• Saves money
• Reduces stress in your closet
• Guarantees you actually wear what you buy

Use this technique when you’re buying gifts, too. When you can picture exactly how your recipient will use it, you know it’s a great gift!

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #3: Focus on what you want to find

Not to sound too woo, but you can totally manifest what you’re shopping for. When you really focus on what you need and start picturing details, you’re more likely to find it.

If you’re shopping for a sweater, dress or other piece of clothing, focus on the color, style, fabric or feel you want.                                              

Once I needed a white dress for a gala I was attending. Before I set out to shop, I got extremely clear on what I wanted.

I stayed open minded, but imagined what the dress might look like and how I’d feel wearing it. When I walked into the store, the perfect white dress practically jumped out at me!

When you know your goal and visualize, the right items tend to show up! 

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #4: Protect your energy

Holiday stores are bright, packed, loud, and full of decisions.
No wonder shopping feels tiring.

Give yourself permission to shop in short sessions.
Take snacks or breaks when you need them.

And you totally have my permission to quickly walk around the family of five with two strollers! (Sorry, I had to put this in…my total pet peeve!)

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Depending on the store, sales associates know where everything is… including the pieces you might miss.

I found my favorite sweater by asking if there were additional colors in the back, maybe something that had been returned…the sales associate came back with my favorite color!

If you’re short on time, or don’t want to dig through racks, ask them to pull items for you.

And of course, if you want someone who already understands your style, your needs, and your schedule… that’s where a stylist (it’s ME! 😀) comes in. Having a professional on your squad saves massive time and banishes guesswork.

Stress-Free Holiday Shopping Tip #6: Smart online shopping starts with slowing down

Late-night sale scrolling happens to all of us.
But here’s my rule: If you’ve had a glass of wine or you’re feeling impulsive, add things to your cart and walk away.

Sleep on it!
If you still love it the next morning, click “buy now.”

Check your closet before you buy

You’re at home! Refer to tip #2 above.

Buy two sizes when in doubt

Brands are so inconsistent! If shipping is free, order your usual size plus one other. I can’t tell you how many times someone buys just one, it arrives too big or small, and the right size is already sold out.

Avoid final sale unless you’re absolutely sure

This goes for gifts too. Nothing’s worse than something that can’t be returned and ends up unworn or re-gifted 😢

Give yourself the gift of an easier season

Stress free holiday shopping is possible. A little strategy upfront takes the stress out and helps you bring home, or bring in from your doorstep, things you’ll actually love… for yourself and the people you love.

If you want even more guidance on building a wardrobe that works with your life instead of against it, I’m here to help!

 Here’s how I help busy women shop smarter and get dressed faster.

Wishing you a warm, easy, and stylish holiday season!