Buyer’s remorse is, in fact, a thing, and many of us have experienced it on more than one occasion. Because even an impeccable sense of style can’t save you from the throes of totally impractical and unnecessary purchases that somehow manage to circumvent your common sense and self-control (happens to the best of us). No matter how many times you tell yourself that a certain leopard print coat (which is totally NOT your thing) would look ah-mazing with your newly acquired block-heel ankle boots, or a ’90s-inspired slip dress is the one thing missing from your fall capsule wardrobe, the truth of the matter is — you’re wrong. The key to battling buyer’s remorse is, quite simply, not making the purchase in the first place and steering clear when you see yourself entering the danger zone. Below, we’ve outlined seven common style pitfalls that serve as an endless source of regret. Give ’em the once over and proceed to avoid like the plague — because, girl, you know better.
Even the most practical of purchases can take a turn for the worst when you discover that your size is no longer in stock, but remain undeterred. Let’s be real — the chances of you taking that too-large top, skirt, dress — whatever — to the tailor (and that they’ll be able to do anything about it) or actually fitting into that super petite piece are slim to none. So why not just avoid it from the get-go, especially if the item comes attached with a no returns policy. No dice. Either shop around until you find the right size, or simply pass on it altogether. This is especially true of shoes. Shoes that don’t fit just right can be incredibly uncomfortable and do some serious damage to those pretty peds. And in the case of backless steppers, like these Zara Contrast Slingbacks ($50), they’ll look downright ridiculous.
IGNORING DAMAGE
Hard swerve, girl. Adding vintage finds to your lineup is a great way to infuse your wardrobe with personality and panache, but there are rules. Damaged goods — especially stains and rips that aren’t along the seams — are better left on the rack. It’s easy to be overcome in the moment by the piece’s positive characteristics, but once you get that sucker home, you might find yourself singing a different tune. There are plenty of well-cared-for pieces out there, like this Romeo Gigli Vintage Sheer Tunic ($149) from Farfetch.com. Build your wardrobe around those instead.
IGNORING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE TO BE ON TREND
Those high-octane pumps you swear you can’t live without? They’re on sale (*fist pump*). The only problem: They so don’t jibe with your minimalist style. While every girl deserves a few statement-making accoutrements to take everyday essentials to the next level, they should, realistically, resonate with your style sensibilities. The likelihood of you busting out those beauties on the regular is just about as slim as you donning head-to-toe ruffles — it just isn’t going to happen. Reserve splurges and statement-making purchases for pieces you’ll actually be willing to wear once the shopping high subsides. Say you do end up taking that show-stopping piece home — we have our sights set on this Nasty Gal Collection What the Faux Fur Coat ($178) — hang on to the receipt and keep the tags on for a day or two to let the purchase sink in. You may decide it needs to make its way back.
PUTTING FORM BEFORE FUNCTION
No piece is stylish enough to warrant putting your own comfort on the back burner — life’s too short, people! And trust us — the discomfort will make itself known one way or the other. You need to breathe, move and eat — so pass on anything that prevents you from performing day-to-day activities with ease. You’ll lose more style cred than you’ll gain by teetering around on too-high heels or pulling down an ill-fitting skirt every five seconds. Instead, invest in options like this Topshop Sleeveless Dome Stud Midi Dress ($125) that dresses up an effortless silhouette with haute details.
SCORING MULTIPLE VERSIONS OF SOMETHING YOU ALREADY OWN
Unless your favorite pieces are starting to show some wear, you probably don’t need to replace them or buy similar items. Four pairs of black pumps might be overkill, as OMG-worthy as these J.Crew Lucite Heels in Suede ($218) are. If you just can’t resist, make a rule of parting ways with one of the old ones before taking home a newer iteration.
INVESTING IN ITEMS THAT DON’T GO WITH THE REST OF YOUR WARDROBE
“I have nothing to wear” situations often arise out of shopping expeditions gone awry. You spot a swoon-inducing dress, sweater or bright bottoms a la these BDG Girlfriend Corduroy High-Rise Pant ($59) at your favorite shop, convince yourself you can totally make it work, then arrive home to find that it goes with zero things in your wardrobe. Womp womp. Before heading to the checkout, subject the piece in question to a practicality test, asking yourself if it can be worn with at least three things you already own. If it passes the test, proceed to the cashier. If not, put it back on the rack. Plain and simple.
GIFTING CLOTHING OR ACCESSORIES TO PEOPLE YOU DON’T KNOW WELL
Style is so personal, and if you aren’t entirely familiar with someone’s tastes and preferences, it’s best to steer clear. You might find these avant-garde Lady Grey Labradorite Arc Earrings ($156) absolutely dreamy, but they might not mesh with the traditional aesthetic of the latest member of your crew. Feeling particularly confident? Just make sure to include a gift receipt!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
