Ask Style: Got Any Advice on How to Avoid Splurging?

When I go shopping with my friends I always feel pressure to buy something. What's the best way to deal so I don't drain my wallet?
–Cleo, via the Ask Style inbox

Girlfriends and shopping just go together. We wouldn't even think of telling you to skip out to save your wallet. Those group gossip sessions while perusing the racks at Nordstrom are practically our therapy! Instead we went to personal shopper and self proclaimed Good Girl Gone Shopping, Elana Pruitt, for her three-prong strategy to resist the friend-induced urge to splurge.

Before you even agree to meet your gals at the mall, the first step is to evaluate your finances to see what you can afford. This is the part where you have to get real with your shopaholic self. "Whether it's $25 or $200, stick to your budget," coaches Pruitt. The shopping expert also recommends paying with cash to avoid credit card finance charges. Not to mention, if you only bring $25 cash with you, there's no way to spend over $25. It's a tough tactic, but it's fool proof.

The second step is to, "Look in your closet and see what you already have and what you don't need before you head out the door," advises Pruitt. We know this is a lot of prep for a simple shopping trip, but trust us it works. Once you have an item or two in mind that you do need, it's like wearing blinders once you're in the store. The idea is that if you're intently focused on finding that perfect, timeless trench coat, you won't even notice that adorable, yet overpriced sequined mini.

Pruitt's last tip is a simple one: be honest with your friends. Let them in on your budget plans, and even, "make a joke about the temptation of shopping and spending too much." Most likely they can relate to your situation, and if they're true friends they won't pressure you to buy. After all, shopping is really about quality time with friends, not who can rack up the most credit card debt!

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