Retail Therapy or Regret? A Guide to Thoughtful Summer Shopping
Let’s talk responsible retail habits — when school is out and all you want to do is shop.
BY MAIA SIMMONS ★ July 13th, 2025
Photo Credit: Maia Simmons
Coming up with a reason to buy something adorable (but totally unnecessary) is basically my hidden talent. I’ve mastered the art of justifying purchases I don’t really need — just because they’re way too cute to pass up. It's been especially difficult this summer to walk away from clothing that feels like a complete necessity…but in reality, is a one-time wear.
So, because I too struggle with controlling my own shopaholic tendencies, it might be time for all of us to take a deep dive into ways we can avoid spending that summer job paycheck on something we just don't need.
Strategy Number One - Clean That Closet Out:
Something that has recently helped me is cleaning out my closet before making any new purchases. Seeing what I don't wear makes it easier for me to see the pieces I don't need and the pieces I do.
Let's say I find myself putting a lot of crop tops or tighter shirts into the donation pile. The pile becomes a reminder that even though, sometimes, a crop top can look cool, I don't find myself reaching for them as much as my longer shirts.
You are not alone. I’ll be the one to say it: giving away clothes is an emotional experience. I'm not materialistic, but I can't help having an emotional attachment to the memories that clothing holds.
Strategy Number Two - Take Your Time:
If the closet-cleaning route doesn't work for you, pausing before purchasing might help. While pausing before a purchase, try following the 24-hour rule for sale items (because, come on, even I can't pass up a good sale), or the 30-day rule for full price items. Take this time to ask yourself some key questions:
Do I really need this, or do I just want it?
Do I already own something similar?
Will I still want this in a month?
What emotion am I trying to soothe by buying this?
Once you have asked yourself these questions, if you still want it after waiting the 24 hours (for the sale item) or 30 days (for the non-sale item), reassess.
Again, I get it, impulsive purchasing can be both the best and worst feeling. I'd be lying if I told you that some of my favorite pieces didn't come from an impulsive shop here and there. With that being said, it's time to use those same hawk eyes you use to watch your man interact with other girls (that I know you all have) on the items you are looking to purchase.
Be strategic and look at the clothing you are shopping for very carefully.
I was literally at a store the other day and tried on this dress that looked perfect on me. It was the last one in the store, in my size and was just sitting in the change room when I walked in (like the dress was waiting for me to try it on). I looked at it closely and realized that it had two deodorant stains on it from a previous shopper. I then told the wonderful girls working at the store, and they were able to give me a 20% discount. It made that choice much easier — and honestly saved me a good amount of money.
In-Person Store Experience vs Gen-Z-ing It Up With Online Shopping:
For some reason, I don't get as tempted to shop online, and I struggle more with in-person shopping. I think it may be because once I see something that looks good on me it's game over, and I need it.
For those who do struggle more with online temptations, something that has worked for friends of mine in the past has been UNSUBSCRIBING and UNFOLLOWING brands that I am prone to shopping from. The emails, text messages — and, honestly, sometimes calls from companies have gotten out of hand. It feels like the zombie apocalypse during the Ediked 80% off everything sale (that seems to happen every other day). The notifications reach you no matter what, and it's hard not to take a sneak peek at what could be your next outfit-victim.
The Mental Health Aspect of It All:
Recognize when you're shopping out of boredom, stress or sadness. Replace it with activities that offer similar emotional relief, like walking, journaling or calling a friend.
A big reason why I shop is when I feel bad about myself; I often want to put something on that will make me feel better. That's not something to be ashamed of; it's just something to be conscious of when you are using purchases to mask your feelings. There are healthier coping mechanisms for a bad mood, as mentioned above.