An interview with Naomi Isted, fashion and beauty columnist, TV presenter, and blogger.

Even if a Shopaholic slumbers in each of us, we all know that the bill for compulsive shopping, or rather the monthly statement for that little piece of plastic, can be quite painful. Marketing lessons teach the techniques to create new needs and some students remember the lessons quite well. Designers do not hesitate to play on consumer fantasies to arouse their interests and sell them sham love, beauty, youth, and seduction. Throughout the year, the holidays, Valentine’s Day, and celebrations all remind us that we should consume…till we are consumed!

It is not surprising that in this consumer society in which we live, going into debt for months to buy a pair of shoes is quite normal. How can we keep our breath in this consumption rat race and how can we resist the vicious cycle of unnecessary purchases? I will let you discover the answer in the following lines through the valuable tips of Naomi Isted.

Originally from Britain, Naomi is a fashion and beauty columnist, a TV presenter, and widely recognized as one of the top trendsetters in London.

She reveals secrets to shopping wisely, being glamorous without breaking the bank, the upcoming 2015 summer trends, and more.

– Hi Naomi, as an expert in bridging the gap between celebrities and the public, I would like to have your opinion on Shopaholism. In today’s celebrity-obsessed society, what are the risks for women trying to copy celebrity style despite financial constraints?

– I do believe celebrities put real woman under a lot of pressure to look a certain way—this applies not only to fashion, but also to weight and appearance. If someone is trying to emulate a celebrity, it’s virtually impossible to do so because each celebrity typically has a team of experts to help her look the way she appears to her fans: stylists, skin experts, therapists, nutritionists, personal trainers, makeup and hair stylists, and full-time nannies. There is a real risk that women will feel perpetually unsatisfied when they discover that they cannot maintain the same fashions and lifestyles of their favorite celebrities.

– Can we be glamorous on a budget?

– Of course we can, that’s why we have the high street. But you need to shop wisely; there’s absolutely no point in trying to copy every trend or we would all end up broke. 

– For those willing to recreate celebrities’ styles, what are the must-have items with budget-friendly alternatives?

– I think the key, rather than chasing after quickly changing trends, is to save rather than spend. When you have saved enough and can afford to buy a few key items each year, invest in a classic, well-crafted bag or pair of shoes, both of which are wardrobe staples that can last for years. 

– What is the one piece of clothing you cannot live without?

 – My Jimmy Choo heels. I do have flats but I love quality heels. They elongate your legs and I feel more confident when wearing them. 

– Do you believe in retail therapy?

– As long as you know you can afford it, then yes, definitely. It can be incredibly rewarding if you’ve worked hard, saved, and have the money set aside specifically for that purpose. If you work hard and save hard, then you earn the bonus of a fabulous day of retail therapy. 

– Can you tell us about the 2015 summer trends?

 – The key trends filtering through this spring and into summer have a retro vibe and inspiration from the 70’s. Think: suede, fringing/tassels, gingham prints, head-to-toe white, candy pink, monochrome, and yellows. Then there’s going to be shirtdresses, culottes, kimono style trench coats, lots of denim, and one-shoulder cuts. The trends can be a minefield, so pick a couple of colours, fabrics, and styles you like and incorporate them into your normal wardrobe. You don’t need to entirely change your wardrobe from season to season—just select a few accessories or pieces that suit your complexion, body shape, and style. 

– How can we look effortlessly chic?

– All of us know our own body type and general style, so never try to copy a trend that isn’t right for your age or shape. The key to effortless chic is dressing appropriately for the occasion and our age. 

– Fashion vs. personality: what makes us more attractive?

– Both. A beautiful personality is the most attractive asset and a confident woman is incredibly appealing. Whatever age or shape you are, being self-possessed is an amazing trait. Of course, with fashion, dressing stylishly will make you feel more assured and beautiful, but there is nothing more repulsive than a woman—regardless of her outer allure—with a terrible personality.

– What message would you like to give to readers who can’t afford retail therapy?

– Don’t do it. If you love fashion, then find small ways to consistently sacrifice and save in other areas; perhaps you could quit smoking or cut back on nights out or trips away. You would be surprised at how every little bit adds up if you try to make some cuts and save on unnecessary splurges. Also, plan for what you really want, whether it’s a new summer wardrobe or a handbag. Work out a target budget and save towards that rather, than going mad shopping and regretting it later. I plan all of my shopping trips and know exactly what I need before I go shopping.

The moral of the story: meditate your purchases 

It is not fashion that is to blame, but rather the way that we consume. Be prepared and buy smart. I hope you shopaholics have enjoyed this post. Stay tuned for more addictions you never knew you had and tips for mitigating our obsessions!

Nu