The 10 Shopping Commandments

Give praise to the shopping idols with our credit crunch-friendly commandments. Obey and ye shall be rewarded...

*Thou shalt not buy smaller sizes
If you think that buying a smaller dress size will motivate you to lose weight then you're deluding yourself. It doesn't work for Mariah Carey and it won't work for us.

*Thou shalt not waste money on passing trends
Those £200 mega-platforms seemed like a great investment at the time, didn't they? And now you're stuck with unwearable footwear that make you look like a circus freak.You can give a nod to the latest hot trend with some cheap accessories or throwaway clothing. Blow larger amounts on quality items that never go out of style.

*Thou shalt understand the difference between necessity and luxury
I want that Balenciaga bag. I need a new washing machine. See the difference?

*Thou shalt not forget to read the care labels.
If that gorgeous sweater is dry clean only then think twice. If you haven't the time or money to make regular trips to the dry cleaners for everyday clothing then choose easy-care items instead.

*Thou shalt not be a slave to sales
Bargains are great, but don't fall into the trap of buying things just for the discount. Yeah, 75% off is great but £150 for a dress you'll rarely wear is still steep.

*Thou shalt not buy rogue clothing
Your new trousers are fabulous, on-trend and cost a bomb. Only thing is, you have nothing in your wardrobe to wear with them. Oh dear...Before you purchase, try and imagine at least two or three outfits you could create. If you can't then put it back.

*Thou shalt not turn thy nose up at budget labels
Cheaper stores and supermarket brands often have good designers, and there are some great bargains to be found. Have a browse before you dismiss them out of hand.

*Thou shalt not impulse buy
Make a plan in your head before you start shopping. Ask yourself if you really need the item and think about how you will use it. Otherwise you'll end up with a cupboard full of stuff with the price tag still on.

*Thou shalt not be afraid to return
Changed your mind? You have the right to cancel a contract within seven days and most stores will exchange or return within a longer period, provided the item is still in good condition.

*Thou shalt not spend more than thou can afford
Seems obvious, but many of us rely on credit to fund our spending sprees. Retail therapy is a false prophet - never believe that it's worth going into debt for that 'must-have' item.

The essentialsWe guarantee you'll wear these items again and again...



There you girls, to anyone who is addicted to shopping like me. Let's do this 10 commandments and we will be rich with money and not a cupboard full of unused and unnecessary things. I promise I shall do this!