Confessions of a “Recovering” Shopaholic

News & Views · Trends · February 22, 2009

With all the hoopla surrounding the newly released film, Confessions of a Shopaholic, I thought it only fitting that I blog about the subject matter, especially given that 17.5 million Americans suffer from compulsive buying. Yes, myself included. While certainly not one of my better traits, I’m well on the road to recovery (as if I really had a choice in this economy?) and I thought I’d share some of the warning signs and preventative measures to help you or someone you know.

Just like alcohol and gambling for some, compulsive buying is an addiction and can be destructive to you and those around you… just ask my husband! “When it becomes repetitive and gets to the point where you’re actually craving it, that becomes a problem,” says Terrence Shulman, founder of The Shulman Center for Compulsive Theft & Spending.

Just so you’re aware, compulsive buying had its roots well before Sophie Kinsella’s chick lit novel became a best seller. In fact, the disorder was first identified by a German doctor in 1915 who referred to it as “oniomania” for the Greek term “onios,” which means “for sale.” Even the American Psychiatric Association is considering including compulsive buying in it’s updated manual of mental disorders.

With retailers’ aggressive discounting due to the disastrous economy, no wonder compulsive buying is even more prevalent than ever before. Everywhere I go it seems as if there’s a designer deal to be had. Even high-end department stores like Bergdorf Goodman are currently selling designer merch at discounts of up to 50% off.... something that was unheard of before. That, coupled with the recent trend of those time-sensitive luxury sample sale sites like BeyondTheRack.com and Gilt.com, serial shopping almost sounds justified.

Brave enough to ask yourself if you suffer from compulsive shopping behavior? Better ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you have a closet filled with unworn designer duds with the tags still attached, yet still feel you have nothing to wear?

• Does your monthly shoe allowance exceed your rent?

• Do you return almost everything you buy? Yes, this is still a symptom of a related disorder (a.k.a. shopping bulimia).

• When you’re feeling blue, do you seek comfort at one of the three B’s: Bloomies, Bergdorf’s or Barney’s?

• Do you hide purchases from your significant other and lie about what you spend (sorry dad, you might want to search Mom’s closet!).

• When you shop, do you feel a rush of euphoria mixed with feelings of anxiety?

If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions, you likely have compulsive buying tendencies. For more information on symptoms and treatment, visit The Shulman Center For Compulsive Theft & Spending or shopaholicsanonymous.org

Do you suffer from compulsive shopping? Share your stories with the FashionJunkie community.

Spring It On!

Trends · February 5, 2009

Don’t get me wrong. I love living in the Big Apple. But having just endured several weeks of consecutive sub zero temps accompanied by snow and sleet, I’m desperate for a large dose of vitamin D. But since I can’t afford a ticket to the Caribbean anytime soon, I’ve resorted to virtual retail therapy: perusing luxury e-tailers like Net-A-Porter.com in search of colorful and flesh-baring pre-spring frocks I wish I had in my wardrobe. Admittedly, this fashion porn is self-inflicted torture, but who says a girl can’t dream every now and then, right?! But I digress. From drop-catch dhoti pants to bandage dresses to fringe-adorned footwear, Spring ‘09’s sartorial offerings are guaranteed to lift your spirits no matter how gloomy these economic times. 

Hip, Hip, Harem!
When it comes to bottoms, baggy is the buzzword of the day. The ones worth investing in for spring are Splendid’s M.C. Hammer-inspired harems (shown here). Note the characteristically low crotch (a.k.a. crap-catchers), which looks beyond smashing when paired with cutout heels and a cropped blazer. Strikingly similar to what I wore in the ‘80’s (if only I hadn’t donated ‘em all to Goodwill!), Splendid’s contemporary jersey version is undeniably comfy and cool. Plus, the fold-over waistband does wonders for concealing PMS-induced tummy bloat. Affordably priced at $115, why not treat yourself to all three hues (available in black, grey and white)… at least while they’re in stock. Better “bust a move” before they sell out! Splendid jersey harem pants, $115 at netaporter.com.

Romper Rage
Thanks to the return of the romper, “jumping for joy” will have new meaning this spring. Also referred to as the onesie, the playsuit, the catsuit and the jumpsuit, this ultra sexy evening staple from the ‘80’s has clearly made a swift comeback. Now perfectly acceptable to don during daylight hours, this silk “I Dream Of Jeanie” jumper from Myne, which has a skin-baring V neck and gathered T strap in back (meow!), is the one on my radar screen. The only downside with this trend: it’s a total pain in the arse when you have to pee. Myne Abbie Jumpsuit, $317 at shopbop.com

Bandage Dress
Slip into this slinky Hervé Léger bandage dress and you’ll look like you’ve just had lipo… sans the surgery. Just check out this photo of Beyoncé…not an unsightly bulge in sight?

And in this photo of Victoria Beckham, her boobs and normally bony butt appear to have been given a lift. I know… it’s hard to believe that a combo of tightly woven rayon, nylon and spandex works like an instant tummy tuck!! In fact, after trying one on at Intermix, I confidently strutted around the store without having to suck in my gut. The va-va-voom neckline, criss-cross straps (in the back) and pops of fuschia, turquoise and hot pink are the pièce de resistance. Although a $990 price tag may seem unconscionable, Leger’s iconic curve-inducing bandage dress is still considerably cheaper than a trip to your plastic surgeon. Available at intermixonline.com

Fringe Benefits
Saddle up, sisters! The new frontier in fashion for Spring ‘09 is all about… the “fringe.” Aside from the usual suspects like vintage-inspired suede jackets and vests, these trendy tassels can also be found dangling from a host of designer threads such as this Foley & Corinna nude flapper dress, V-neck tanks, satchels (this purple Botkier is my personal fave) and even shoes, like these jaw-dropping Christian Louboutin peep-toe pumps (shown here). Don’t you just love how the (suede) strands gracefully drape around the ankles but still reveal a hint of skin? An added bonus is their concealed platform, which enables even the spazziest of fashionistas to balance despite the teetering 4 7/10” heel. Available in midnight black and this bold magenta hue for the mind-boggling price of $1,095 at BergorfGoodman.com. Recessionistas don’t despair… betcha it’s only a matter of time ‘til Topshop knocks ‘em off.

Crazy Cut Outs
Not that I have the disposable income to invest in any luxury designer items at the moment, but if I did, I’d definitely snap up these sizzling Yves Saint Laurent bondage-inspired cage boots, which sell for a steep $1,400. Aside from their obvious cool factor, Laurent’s luxe foot jewels let your toesies breathe so you needn’t worry about athlete’s foot and the accompanying stink. Buyers beware: with a stacked heel this exposed, you’d better avoid wearing ‘em whilst walking Fido in the park, if you know what I mean. Available at luisaviaroma.com

For recessionistas in need of a more wallet-friendly option, you can’t go wrong with these fierce $38 (I repeat, $38!) Abaeté for Payless gladiator sandals. Made from real suede, these cheap, yet chic shoes feature a padded footbed for added comfort and a convenient back zip. Throw ‘em on with a sexy catsuit and you’ll clearly have a “jump” start on your spring wardrobe. Happy shopping!

I’m curious… would you break the bank on any of these designer luxury items or are you putting the kibosh on frivolous purchases altogether due to the recession? C’mon, don’t be shy… share your thoughts with the FashionJunkie community!