Self imposed shopping ban - Harder than I thought! - YouLookFab Forum

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Self imposed shopping ban - Harder than I thought!

Sara L.

Veteran

No shopping for me for the next 2 months! I don't consider myself a big shopper and I usually only buy 1 or 2 items in any given month, but now that I can't buy anything, I can't seem to stop looking and of course I keep finding stuff I want/need.

I recently found out I'm pregnant but I've miscarried in the past so don't want to even think about this until I know if I'm going to be pregnant for 9 months or 9 weeks. Because of this though, I feel like I can't do any shopping until I know what's going to happen. I can't shop for regular clothes and I can't shop for maternity clothes. This shopping ban is turning out to be much harder than I thought it would be!

Shopping

15 replies

Latest reply was from Carla

Molly L-R

Chin up, Sara! You can do it!

Thistle

Veteran

Shopping bans are hard. Perhpas, instead of a ban, allow yoourself some new shoes or a pretty bracelet? That way, you don;t feel so restricted.

Also, this time of year sme of the choicer spring items are being released, so that could be part of it too. Winter is winding down in some parts of the world, and all the spring stuff is hitting the stores.

I completely understand where you are coming from. I miscarried several times before finally being able to have my DD. It is an emotional rollercoaster, especially if it has happened before. For me, I had a hard time becoming attached even after the ultrasound told me everything was going to be okay with DD. I just kept waiting for the other shoe to fall. And, of course, everything is SO much harder with the flood of hormones!

So, treat yourself to some fun new shows! Maybe those silver oxfords Angie linked to yesterday!

Adelfa

Veteran

I'm with Thistle--I want to tell you to buy yourself something pretty or fun! Of course you're not making major wardrobe investments when you don't know what size you'll be but with all this uncertainty, maybe a total ban isn't necessary? I don't mean to be unsupportive of your plans, just supportive of you. Lots of good thoughts.

merwoman

Veteran

Congratulations Sara! It's hard being at this in between stage . Why not make a couple of pinterest boards so that you can virtually shop until you feel confident in which direction to head.
Hugs to you and please keep us posted.

Tina.b

Veteran

Congratulations Sara! I've been in you situation and it is difficult. I will be sending you good thoughts.

Charmian

Veteran

When I can't shop, I reorganize :). How about some new hangers, switching up your hanging system (if you hang by color, try by type -- or vice versa), or just the ol' fashioned "pull everything out of the closet and try some new combos"?

Two months will fly by, I promise. You can do it! And I bet you'll feel amazing when you've accomplished this.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Congratulations, Sarah!! And hang in there. 2 months can go by quickly. I like to fill my shopping cart with online pretend purchases - and not hit buy.

Sara L.

Veteran

Thanks for the great suggestions! Shoes are an option since I know from past experience (I have two boys ages 5 and 7) that my feet don't change during pregnancy. I've also been meaning to go through my jewelry collection and purge so maybe this a good opportunity to do that and find some new pieces. Organizing my closet might also help me come up with some new combinations and curb my impulse to shop.

Charmian

Veteran

Oooh, I also thought of doing long-put-off alterations: slimming a pair of bootcuts, switching out shoelaces, upgrading buttons, chopping ill-fitting trousers into oh-so-trendy slouchy shorts, ...

This could be fun!

rachylou

Veteran

Re-arrange the living room!

Beth Ann

Veteran

Blessings on you, Sara! I agree that a small purchase of a scarf or some jewelry might be in order. You look great in what you have, and I hope maternity wear is in your near future!

ironkurtin

Veteran

Fingers crossed and good wishes sent out!

Caro in Oz

Veteran

They call it retail therapy for a reason:)

I find a little mad money helps. You decide what to spend it on - a lipstick, a movie or a good book.

Sending positive thoughts your way.

cheryl

Veteran

Sending big hugs your way and I agree that you should treat yourself to a little something.

Carla

Veteran

I'm wrapping up my 3rd month of a shopping fast. Caring for my existing stuff has helped, and given me an opportunity to reassess each garment as I try to find new outfit combinations. My usual habit has been to add colour to a neutral palette ( black or grey) but I've recently been doing colour blocking. It's like having a whole new wardrobe!

I second Charmian's ideas.