The Purchase Decision

Scenario. I stop by the mall to make a long overdue return. While there, I might as well visit a few stores, right? In Macy’s, I encounter these standout sandals—a glossy leather slingback. Ok. So, I am not shopping for shoes. But, these are not ordinary shoes. The gladiator inspired sandal has a tri color—luggage, tan, and vanilla—strappy vamp with geometric polished metal accents and studs at the center. And, they’re on sale.
To buy or not to buy? The decision to purchase always rests on a number of things, one being whether I can imagine at least three outfits with the shoes. That’s easy.

But, wait a minute. I already have the Tahari d’Orsay pumps, which can easily blend into the same looks. The new shoes are new, but they don’t necessarily bring any added value. So, do I need them?
Decision: Not to buy (well, not to keep)
Shoes—MICHAEL Michael Kors via Macy’s
“As soon as you buy something, you lose the power to buy something.” –Charles Johnson, “Exchange Value”

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14 Comments

  1. July 28, 2008 / 2:58 pm

    Good decision, though I love the outfits! I’ve passed up many a beautiful shoe because I have a pair like it (color, heel ht., etc.) already.

    Just wanted to let you know, I love your blog! It’s one of the coolest style blogs I’ve read! I too am a brown-skinned tropical island girl (Sri Lanka), so I pick up a lot of fashion tips from you. ^_^

  2. July 28, 2008 / 3:43 pm

    Great decision, dear! You know it is simply too hard to resist! I should definitely learn from you to avoid more mistakes xxxxxxx

  3. July 28, 2008 / 3:44 pm

    It’s difficult to pass them up; they are superb. But if you’re not in love with them, then it’s okay to wait for something you do fall in love with.

  4. July 28, 2008 / 4:04 pm

    I personaly like the other shoes more than these so great decision. :O)

  5. July 28, 2008 / 4:22 pm

    I’m adding your fashion rule to my list of buys and not buys… btw, I love how you describe clothing. I feel like I’m reading a fashion mag when I read your blog.

  6. July 28, 2008 / 4:46 pm

    I agree with the other comments! These do remind me of the tan d’orsay pumps and i do like those a teensy bit more! Also I was wondering if you could do me a favor….I’m a fan of bargain shopping and I know that usually big cities have more of those. I’m heading to california (mainly malibu and la) and I was wondering if you have any advice on bargain shopping in the region?? thanks in advance!

  7. July 28, 2008 / 6:31 pm

    I think you decided very well.

    And love that Charles Johnson’s quote.

    xoxo

  8. July 28, 2008 / 9:10 pm

    Psyche those shoes were super cute, but I understand you have to take inventory of what you already have so you are maximizing your dollar. If I had done that — I wouldn’t have so many black shoes I now have to sell off on ebay and stuff. Wise decision.

  9. July 29, 2008 / 4:55 am

    Anchibride: Passing up on items can be difficult at times though, right? Thank you so much for your kind words!

    Times of Glory: I’ve made many mistakes myself and still do. As you can tell I actually bought these shoes and took them back 🙂 I try to be disciplined, but I slip at times. Hooray for generous return policies.

    Enc: That’s right.

    Oh That Girl: I am happy with the decision. The Tahari shoe is much more classic.

    Nyah: Great! I appreciate that.

    Clare: Agreed. I like the Tahari pump better too. Unfortunately, I don’t have any experience shopping in Cali. I always like to check out the Marshalls/TJ Maxx in every city I visit though. I actually think it is easier to find great stuff in smaller cities. Also, I imagine that you could find some great resale boutiques there too. Come back and let me know of your bargain hunting experience.

    Seeker: That CJ quote seemed quite fitting today 🙂

    Fdiary: Right. I won’t even itemize all my regret buys. I’ve learned a great lesson the hard way.

  10. July 29, 2008 / 8:12 am

    brilliant quote at the end
    I would’ve kept them – I love the Balenciaga esque style with the coloring
    but alas, it is not up to me!

  11. July 29, 2008 / 1:03 pm

    bugger me raw! I missed this, however I would have voted not to buy…which is so unlike me but you made a vaild argument against!

  12. July 29, 2008 / 6:19 pm

    oh, i really love those sandals! yet, i agree the pumps can work just as well.

  13. July 30, 2008 / 7:08 am

    I like your decisionmaking process. The shoes are seriously hot, but good choice in letting them go when you have something similar.

  14. July 31, 2008 / 6:01 pm

    Very good scenario. And a smart way to shop.

    Good for you.