The Swim (Don't Sink) Guide To Shopping

Men just don't get it: Shopping is a sport. It takes stamina, strategy, and sometimes a boatload of cash to get the right bag, shoe, or dress. Five readers fess up on how to keep afloat

By Maureen Dempsey

On average, women spend about 102 minutes shopping per month, while men spend a mere 60 minutes (according to Women's Wear Daily). Is it any wonder we go to extreme measures to make the most of those precious 1224 minutes a year?

THE SACRIFICE SHOPPER
Toni, 25 actress/musician
"I know I can put my cable bill off another week, but that sweater might be gone if I wait any longer."

I make sacrifices in other parts of my life to make up for my expensive clothing purchases. There's an urgency to my shopping. I like the feeling of buying stuff and having it in my possession. That's where the sacrifices come in. A fancy sushi dinner can wait, but those Giuseppi Zanotti shoes--my absolute favorites!--can't.

After I've made a purchase, though, I'll continue to think about it later that day or even later that week. I feel guilty, especially when I see it in my closet. Then I make trade-offs to make myself feel better. For example, clothes from H&M, Forever 21, or other inexpensive stores compensate for the Manolo Blahniks I had to have.

I recently bought some $25 Dior mascara at Sephora. To compensate, I ate a $2 slice of pizza for lunch instead of a healthier, more expensive salad. I also rationalize that I'll be the only person to ever have certain items, so it's worth the money, and I'll find an occasion to wear them. I bought a long, black, flowing evening gown a while back. It's so beautiful. I convinced myself that one day I will be invited to a black-and-white ball, and I'll have the perfect dress. So far, I've waited a year-and-a-half to wear it.

I love expensive bags and shoes, but I specifically choose accessories that will last. And once I've accepted my pricier purchases, I feel like I've gotten a deal with less-expensive items. I may pay a bill late and have to stay in and order Chinese instead of going out, but it's worth it in the long run!