Strategy in life, career, sports, or wherever is very important. Anything worth investing is worth considering the best possible way, such as my wardrobe. When I do not have a strategy in place, then I am wholeheartedly depending on luck. Needless to say, as a Big and Tall man, luck has done diddly for my wardrobe.
Knowledge is power. But in this instance, knowledge of what you want will save you frustration. I shop with a purpose in mind i. e. specific item, color, etc. It makes for a good compass. As Big and Tall men, we need a compass or run the risk of buying what is available. I have tons of “what is available” cluttering my closet; money wasted.
Online shopping:
Now that I have an idea of what I want, where do I go? There is offline and online. Big and Tall men have more choices online, but cannot try anything on before purchasing. So when shopping online I try to stick to designers who are already in my closet. It gives me the best chance of purchasing something that fits well. Though I am more inclined to try new designers if there is a favorable return policy.
In-Store Shopping:
When shopping in stores, the strategy ramps up a bit. Salespeople are great resources of information. They know which designers make larger sizes, how designers fit, new inventory, and can be a much needed second opinion. I find a good salesperson, build a relationship, and try to shop during their work hours.
In my opinion, the best days to shop are the day of or right after inventory has come in to the store. It gives me the best possible chance to find what I want in my size. If unable to get to the store on those days, I might ask my favorite salesperson to put it to the side for me.
A Few Extra Tips:
Most of what I shop for is versatile. Meaning it can be worn several ways with different pieces of complimentary clothing. I try to get as much value as possible out of my clothing purchases. Buying in such a manner expands my wardrobe faster and saves me money.
I love to wear jeans. If I find a pair I like, I buy 2 or even 3. The same with shirts, but in different colors or patterns. This can be applied to any article of clothing you like.
I also buy off-season and save it for the following year. Men’s clothing does not drastically change from year to year. Chances are if it looked good this year, it will the next.
Do you have a strategy when shopping? Did I miss anything? Let us know, we are in this together.