Luxury Shopping: Deconstructing the Hype

It’s seen as an opportunity everyone should have at least once. Sales associates catering to your every whim and providing a shopping experience unlike no other. To a degree you’d be right to think that luxury shopping is unlike a regular shopping trip, high-end bouti make a conscious effort to provide a heighten shopping experience. Everything about luxury retailers is designed to make you feel special. From providing beverages, business cards, on site perks and top notch overall service. Staff have been appointed to ensure that anyone who enters the premise of the shop is handed over elite treatment to build a successful client list. So, yes, as a customer to a luxury fashion store, you are entitled to all kinds of luxuries possible. 

As the consumer it’s important to know what benefits you can take advantage of in order for the sale to benefit you. It’s always a good idea to do your own homework on the overall brand, products, and company policies so you’re more comfortable dropping your hard-earned cash for designer pieces. That’s why I put this list together of 5 things to keep in mind when you decide to shop at a luxury retailer. I think these tips will allow you to make the right choices and ensure you’ll have a memorable experience!

It Never Hurts to Call Ahead
Usually, when you go shopping the last thing you’d think to do is call store beforehand, but this is something recommended when shopping luxury. Collections at a luxury boutique is hand-picked and limited in contrast to the number of takers. Which is why it’s always better to call ahead to see if the item is available in your size. It also allows staff to curate your experience and keep other style aside that you may also find to your taste. 

Be Real with the Budget
Be honest with yourself about how much you can spend so that you’re not caught off guard while shopping. Most people believe that when you go into a high-end boutique that you must dress a certain way or preform like you’re a baller and the price is nothing. But it’s completely unnecessary, and staff can tell if a shopper is in over their heads. How? If you’ve ever done any of the follow, you’ve exposed yourself:  

-       Shy away from staff and don’t ask any questions 

-       The first thing you’re always looking for is the price tag

-       The only question you ask is about the return policy or price adjustments

The staff know it’s either your first-time shopping with them or that you can’t really afford the clothing in the boutique. Luxury fashion is expensive, as the name very conveniently suggests, but it could cost you dearly if you do not go ahead without a budget on your mind.

Tip: If you sign up for emails, you usually can redeem the standard 15 – 20% off your first purchase offer in store.

Be Real with Yourself
One thing that can derail a luxury shopping experience is not knowing your body type. Store associates will often ask are you familiar with the sizes. It’s helps them successfully pull items for you to look at. Example, Saint Laurent is Parisian brand, and their cuts will differ a brand like Gucci, because their an Italian brand. European cuts are sleek, tailored and meant to fit like a glove. Be sure you understand the cut before you make the purchase. It also helps to allow sales staff to break down the garments, so you better understand the fit, fabrics and structure. 

Don’t Rush the Process
You’re planning to spend big bank so it’s imperative that you are happy with the fit and how you look. Don’t get overwhelmed should the associate bring out multiple options, they want you to have a great experience and hopefully be a returning client and a new addition to the coveted client list.

Ask relevant questions
Don’t be reckless about luxury fashion. Take the opportunity to ask some important questions: 

-       How do I care for the material?

-       Do you have handle alterations? Or do you work with a third-party vendor?

-       If I place an order online what is the estimated delivery time?

-       What’s the material of this item? (i.e. For bags, wallets and shoes – lambskin, calfskin etc.)

-       How does the item wear over time? (Sometimes they have older, more worn-in sample versions of the item they can show you.)

By doing this you’ll discover what services the brand may provide in house vs what they will outsource. You’ll also understand what services are not offered or covered by the company. 

Lastly, have fun! I hope this has removed some of the intimidation of shoppingluxury fashion.Drop a comment below and let me knowif you’re ready to spend the big bucks or are you still unsure about whether you really want to splurge.