What you’re missing out on when you shop online.
Online shopping is fast becoming the only way to shop and I can see why. It’s super convenient (I don't even have to leave my bed), the service is usually pretty good and you get to try stuff on in the comfort of your own home without the fluorescent lighting and bubbly 16 year old telling you how you are totally rocking the 2-sizes-too-small leather culottes. Yet despite it all I insist on shopping in real stores and you should too. No, this isn’t a preachy article about supporting bricks and mortar retail. It’s much more vain than that.
If you are shopping online you are missing out the on the very important Retail Workout, one of the most effective fitness regimes in existence. The results speak for themselves. Guaranteed weight loss, you’re wallet gets lighter, every time.
Think about it, finally busting out the active wear for a day in town makes sense! Throw on some heels to really tone the calves and butt. For anyone out there like me who hates conventional exercise this workout is a must. You get all the endorphins of breaking a sweat plus the added joy of adding to your wardrobe.
Be warned, to get maximum effect this regime must be taken seriously. Just casually strolling down the mall to get to Zara and then heading home to watch Netflix won't cut it. All those boutiques too cool for the ground floor, that’s where you need to be. You’ll score a unique piece plus a few reps up the stairs.
Don’t be a fool and pile everything into one bag – distribute evenly between each arm, and the more you buy the better for your upper body strength. Online shoppers, you’ll barley be able to lift that parcel by your door the way you’re going.
When it comes to lunch it’s important to chose something light so you don't bloat and miss out on try on those body con dresses you’ve had your eye on. It should, however be filling enough to keep you from feeling lightheaded and buying a reversible bucket hat that looked cool on the model, kind of…(speaking from experience unfortunately). The best choice is sushi train on those really awkward high chairs, squished between a million people. Delicious, and you can work on your core and balance skills at the same time.
Now remember, this a sprint, not a marathon. That perfect dress may be right on the other side of town. Stay hydrated with a green smoothie and coconut water (Instagram shot right there, you’re welcome).
Like many, I need a goal to work towards and mine is the biggest shopping event of the year; Boxing Day sales. Sure the Internet has Click Frenzy and you need pretty nimble fingers but it’s over in a matter of minutes, nothing to write home about. Real stores are where those real “YES!” purchases are made, where you get to feel that all those months of preparation shopping have paid off. You can tell tales of how you used Jedi mind power to make that other girl put down the last pair of size eight black Louboutins at 40% off which you now proudly wear.
Still not convinced? Just remember, while you’re sitting around biting your nails and waiting to see if this weekend’s outfit will be delivered on time I’m wearing my outfit to Thursday night to dinner and treating myself to dessert because I’ve earned it. I just hope your delivery is on your doorstep by Friday ladies!