In the Mood to Checkout
The rules I follow when instant gratification strikes
Whether you justify pricier items in your closet by calling them investment pieces, or you’re just aware of your own expensive taste (hi), what I find most chic is being a savvy shopper. To me it’s the same idea as being street smart: shrewd, aware, and able to make good choices in any scenario.
I’m no stranger to the checkout button when it comes to pieces that fall into the “investment” category, but it got me thinking about the habits and little thought processes that come into play before I buy anything, no matter the price point.
Wear It (At Least) 5 Ways
My number one rule before buying anything is making sure it fits—both my lifestyle and my personal style. This helps me distill whether I’m just daydreaming about wearing something to an imaginary event, or if it’s actually filling a gap in my closet to make getting dressed easier. Of course there are exceptions to the rule, but generally sticking to this approach helps block out some of the links noise.
Re: t-shirts, let’s use my latest closet addition as an example. I found myself obsessing over the unique cut, the super high crewneck and particular shade of red. Given my rule for adding something new into rotation, here are the 5 ways I plan to style:
On Vacation: paired with this skirt, these sandals, and a raffia bag like this
Sunday Market: picture wearing with my Riaco jeans, and either of these flip flops (still the chicest)
Errands: straight black denim, chic sneakers, with my Peggy clutch (love not lugging a full tote when I’m running around town)
Coffee Shop: paired with my favorite white jeans (that could pass as Eglitta’s) and again with another great pair of flip flops
Casual Dinner: with black trousers, a belt (another great option CODE: HELENB10), and minimal sandals
Loyalty really does go a long way. Once I’ve had a good experience with a store or service, I tend to stick with it—and a lot of the time, it pays off. Some of my favorites, like Moda Operandi and FWRD, offer loyalty programs where you can earn credits for future purchases. It makes buying things I already love feel a little more strategic, especially when it comes to bigger wishlist items.
I also always do a quick check to see if something I’m eyeing is available elsewhere for less. If it is, and I’ve shopped with the brand before, I’ll reach out and ask about a price match. I’ve done this a bunch of times—it’s easier than you think, and it’s a smart way to make sure you’re not missing out.
When the Mood Strikes: Enter Instant Gratification
Not every purchase needs to be meticulously planned out. Especially when it comes to beauty, trial and error is part of the process and honestly kind of the fun. This is where trusting a solid source comes in. For me, that’s Violet Grey.
It’s one of the few places I trust completely when I’m in the mood to try something new or restock a favorite. Their edit is tight, curated, and doesn’t feel overwhelming—which makes it the ideal destination when I want a little instant gratification.
A few recent Violet Grey finds that I’ve added to my trusted mix:
Habelo Treatment-Boosting Gloves – I didn’t think I needed treatment boosting gloves… until I tried these. They amplify any hand treatment and are a multitasker’s dream.
Sophie Pavitt Omega Rich Moisturizer – A perfectly balanced moisturizer that works for both day and night. My highly reactive skin loves this product especially on no-makeup days for a dewy finish or after travel.
Victoria Beckham Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil – A quiet little upgrade to your whole face to look instantly more awake. VB really doesn’t mess around.
U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel – I was nervous this would be too intense, but it’s just right. My skin is noticeably smoother overnight.
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum – A cult classic for a reason. I don’t know why it took me so long to get on board, I feel that it’s basically a green juice for your complexion.
LILIS Instant Peel – A rare product that delivers exactly what it promises: baby-soft skin within minutes. Perfect for prepping head to toe for your upcoming vacation and oddly satisfying to use.
At the end of the day, whether it’s fashion or skincare, shopping is part practicality, part pleasure.
The key, at least for me, is feeling good about the why. Whether it’s a t-shirt I’ll wear five ways, a serum that makes my skin actually behave, or a place I repeatedly return to because I trust the curation—those small decisions add up to a smarter, more intuitive way of shopping.
This post is in partnership with Violet Grey