How to Dress for Going Shopping

Co-authored by Dina Scherer

Last Updated: September 23, 2021

When you go shopping for clothes, you try on other clothes, but it is very annoying when the clothes you are wearing are hard to get on and off. This guide will tell you what to wear when you are shopping.

1

Stick with slip-ons (shoes).

It is not fun to take tennis shoes off and then put them right back on, so in the summer, go with flips flops, and in the winter go with slip on tennis shoes with no laces.
- Although you should wear comfortable shoes, make sure you bring a pair of shoes that you're going to be coordinating with the different looks you're trying. ^{[1]
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  Expert Source
  
  Dina Scherer
  Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
  Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.}

2

Wear something loose and comfortable.

Tight clothes are hard to get on and off, so you won't have fun while you're out.^{[2]
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3

Wear loose and comfortable buttoned and collared shirts.

Collared shirts tend to be a pain while trying to get back on. Wear a regular shirt that is easy to get in and out of.

4

Try to go with skirts if possible.

Suggestions for guys are loose pants or shorts. Basically, wear bottoms that you can change out of easily.

5

Wear limited and small pieces of jewelry.

Big loop earrings get stuck in hair and clothes and it may be a frustration in the dressing room if jewelry gets tangled.^{[3]
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6

Bring extra clothing.

Always bring along an extra pair of jeans, camisoles, or tops, depending on what you need to buy.^{[4]
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7

Wear neutral colors.

Wear colors that will match with anything you try on so that you can more easily envision yourself in the clothes you try on.

Expert Q&A

Question

What shoes should I wear when I go shopping?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

Bring along shoes that match the type of clothes that you'll be trying on. For instance, you wouldn't want to wear a pair of sneakers while you're trying on a suit—instead, you'd wear or bring along a pair of flats, pumps, or loafers.
Question

Should I leave long hair down, or tie it up?

Sydneyjane16

Community Answer

It should be up so it doesn't get caught in zippers, buttons, jewelry, or impede your field of vision.
Question

How do I pick comfortable shoes when shopping?

Community Answer

Feel inside the shoe for padding to start. Then, put them on and walk around for a bit. While you have the shoes on, slide your finger into the back of the shoe to see whether or not the shoe will rub against your ankle. Lastly, press down on the toe of the shoe to make sure that they aren't too small. If there isn't any space between your big toe and the toe of the shoe, get a bigger size.