So, I deployed two, or maybe 3, of my "most advanced" shopping weapons during a quick trip to Nordies:
1. Playing paper dolls --- I hold garments up to my body using the mirrors on the floor. This lets me quickly size up color, scale of any patterns, lengths, and get a rough estimate of fit, without taking time in the dressing room. It's effective as a quick sorting tool.

2. Go to school -- I choose a section to visit, even if I can't afford the items, or am sized out. This time, I looked over the Vince clothing, noting the fabrications, silhouettes, colors, details and construction. The SA was a retailing graduate at Purdue. We had a great discussion about textiles -- picking up some of the double faced woolens, and observing how the line was constructed. Some day, I may use what I've learned to purchase a double faced wool jacket, or a sheath dress. (See blue sheath dress below). It also helps me be more conscious of good design and construction.

3. Try on a wildcard. I'm not shopping for evening wear this season. However, when I saw the black lace and fine gauge (think St. John) knit dress by Vince Camuto, I was intrigued. The picture doesn't do it justice. They must have pinned it on the model, as it is generously sized, and is not particularly bodycon. IRL it has a late 30s, early 40's starlet look, with the back bodice entirely made of lace. I happened to be wearing a black cami, and the added modesty didn't destroy the look. I would like to add a lace blouse, when funds allow, and pair it with either my black pencil, or with my leather pleated skirt. Guess I could wear it to watch the Evening News!

As I toured Point of View, I tried on the Ellen Tracy coat (see below in Finds) in Cobalt. This is a wonderful piece -- lots of great colors. I'd have it in my closet if my budget allowed another dress casual coat!

4. (I lied, I applied more tactics)Always scan for updated basics -- I purchased this navy (darker than photo) tunic. VERY soft and skimming, not clingy. It's a bit shorter on me than the model (( take up length in the bosom, I suspect). I purchased a :arge, which means it's fairly generous.

5. (yep, one more) Always wear a favorite outfit to shop! --- When I wear something easy to get in and out of, but well-loved, it helps me walk away from less than stellar garments. I put on my own clothing and think, "This looks better than anything else I've tried today!" Photo 1 is actually take a half-hour later -- at the Rack. I didn't buy anything there, for exactly this reason. This is pretty conventional, but I feel good in it!

How to you think strategically when you shop?