topic Re: In The Minority in Q Talk

In The Minority

anxious1 — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:17:40 GMT

I realize I am way in the minority here and a lot of Q shoppers are blessed with a much better income than a few older people on a fixed income. I used to buy a LOT, but now I an out priced even by Denim and Co. Prices are up everywhere but I used to get great deals here which is why I bought a lot. I don't understand the prices on clothes etc. For me no matter how expensive something is the thrill/fun of something new fades very quickly and I am enticed by the next item. Now when I buy it has to be last clicks or as is etc. I know as soon as I wear it once I will want something else. Am I the only one?

Re: In The Minority

ellaphant — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:32:54 GMT

I don't have that need to shop. Sounds compulsive.

Re: In The Minority

jlkz — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:35:25 GMT

@anxious1

You have described a troublesome behavior perfectly. You are choosing to continue the behavior even though you know the immediate outcome: The thrill is gone and so is your $.

You mentioned you used to buy a lot. Is your closet (s) full to the brim ? Even if you donate a lot of clothing, you indicate that finances are a concern. Even with endless funds this is a situation calling for your action.

Please search for available therapist to help you with this situation. It is serious now and can bring on other crippling problems.

Best wishes for success.

Re: In The Minority

World Traveler — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:43:28 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
I realize I am way in the minority here and a lot of Q shoppers are blessed with a much better income than a few older people on a fixed income. I used to buy a LOT, but now I an out priced even by Denim and Co. Prices are up everywhere but I used to get great deals here which is why I bought a lot. I don't understand the prices on clothes etc. For me no matter how expensive something is the thrill/fun of something new fades very quickly and I am enticed by the next item. Now when I buy it has to be last clicks or as is etc. I know as soon as I wear it once I will want something else. Am I the only one?

Used to be like that, but as I got older things/priorities changed. I don't feel the need to purchase now like I did years ago. I think younger people feel more of a need to purchase something "just because." So many reasons people make purchases besides actually needing the item.

We're all in different phases/places in our lives. "Keeping up with the Jones" used to be the reason people purchased things. Now, I don't care what everyone else is buying, and I certainly don't purchase because someone on TV tells me to. I've toughened up over the years.

Yup, age has a lot to do with it for me. ha!

Re: In The Minority

Tinkrbl44 — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 20:52:59 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
I realize I am way in the minority here and a lot of Q shoppers are blessed with a much better income than a few older people on a fixed income. I used to buy a LOT, but now I an out priced even by Denim and Co. Prices are up everywhere but I used to get great deals here which is why I bought a lot. I don't understand the prices on clothes etc. For me no matter how expensive something is the thrill/fun of something new fades very quickly and I am enticed by the next item. Now when I buy it has to be last clicks or as is etc. I know as soon as I wear it once I will want something else. Am I the only one?

@anxious1

First, I have to say your screen name and your comments here are ... interesting, to say the least.

Some people here ARE recreational shoppers .... they buy more "wants" than "needs". If they can afford this hobby, good for them. There are worse vices.

However, your comments indicate you shop for "the thrill/fun of something new", NOT because you actually need something.

ITA with the comments that you really should consult a mental health professional in your insurance plan. Your "anxious" screen name suggests something else that needs to be addressed in a therapy session.

This might seem harsh to others reading this, but, to me, you really can't afford to be buying anything for all the wrong reasons.

AND, in addition to that, You need to cultivate a fun hobby that doesn't entail impulse spending. The last thing any older person needs is to outlive their money.

Please take my comments seriously.

JMO, of course.

Re: In The Minority

Love my grandkids — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 21:06:35 GMT

This whole thread reminds me of a current poster who has in the past posted complaints about the cost of heat and other things. A few days later she posts about a recent QVC purchase. Interesting.

Re: In The Minority

FancyPhillyshopper — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 22:17:40 GMT

I have been a shopper since I was a little girl.

I do not think it is a compulsion--it is a behavior that develops from living in a consumer society where fashion is constantly changing, life is fast-paced, and new and creative products are always being introduced. If you also like to collect things, or if you need lots of clothes for different activities, then you are exposed constantly to the consumer culture.

Some folks dislike shopping (like my DH and his father before him), some are very nervous about it (one of my SILs), and some, like my mother, and me, and my late MIL, truly enjoy the entire experience of the search and the success of the purchase. We are also smart and learn how to comparison shop, negotiate, etc.

Shopping for non-necessities, therefore, develops into a recreational activity for those that can afford to do so. There is also a temporary dopamine release that gives many people pleasure when they shop.

Many men are similar as they buy new electronics, new cars, and new technology. The USA would not have such a strong market selling everything if we did not have so many buyers!

For younger people, they are strongly influenced by what they see others doing online and on social media, especially celebrities, and they want to imitate them and also become "beautiful and successful." Remember that Kylie Jenner made hundreds of millions of dollars selling cosmetics to her fan base.

So when I was younger my income was a lot more limited, but many years of school, hard work, commuting, and putting in long hours allowed me to be more comfortable financially.

I need nothing more (does Oprah W really need six to ten homes?), but I still want to buy more because it is fun, and many items are desirable.

I also think people who may be bored or lonely can use shopping as a crutch; it could possibly become a bit addictive and harmful--the same as all of those people who are losing money on online gambling.

My new approach/philosophy for myself is to try to upgrade--get rid of older, inferior products and buy only something I truly LOVE and want to wear/use all the time.

I am more deliberate in my purchases by waiting a few days before I hit a "shop" button--don't make shopping an impulse decision. That decision to only buy what you really want also reduces returns.

Of course, as we age, there is also a shift to experiencing joy and making memories through experiences rather than just accumulating goods. Many younger people discovered that fact after Covid kept them confined at home.

Perhaps plan for a little getaway, or another special treat like a spa day, and start saving up for that instead of shopping. Do advance research, visit some online travel websites, check out restaurant menus, and take the focus away from shopping for "things."

Best wishes!!

Re: In The Minority

Sooner — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 22:39:27 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
I realize I am way in the minority here and a lot of Q shoppers are blessed with a much better income than a few older people on a fixed income. I used to buy a LOT, but now I an out priced even by Denim and Co. Prices are up everywhere but I used to get great deals here which is why I bought a lot. I don't understand the prices on clothes etc. For me no matter how expensive something is the thrill/fun of something new fades very quickly and I am enticed by the next item. Now when I buy it has to be last clicks or as is etc. I know as soon as I wear it once I will want something else. Am I the only one?

@anxious1 Not the only one, but I things I intend to love for a long time. I have always been that way--not one to be thrilled by the latest trend, what is popoular. I like classics and relatively timeless clothes and things that will last.

Re: In The Minority

CaliGold67 — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 23:25:06 GMT

I hear you - I think their prices are usually too high.
Have you looked at all the clothing on Amazon? try it.

Re: In The Minority

anxious1 — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 23:45:15 GMT

All good points ladies. However you may have missed the part that said I USED to shop a lot I have not in a long time. My point is QVC is lsing money and instead of lowering price they raise it a lot. For people that are not wealthy this really does not work. I have not carried a balance or paid interest anywhere in 15 years. I think I am okay. And I don't know anyone personally that does not find shopping fun. That is kind of the idea. And I was not speaking of myself about wanting something else (but I have been in the group) I referred to QVC customer in general that keeps them going. However when I do want something it is last clicks or as is cause I am not paying the crazy prices, Yhank you for your concern. I understand it was with good intentions.

Re: In The Minority

Tori3569 — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 23:56:57 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
All good points ladies. However you may have missed the part that said I USED to shop a lot I have not in a long time. My point is QVC is lsing money and instead of lowering price they raise it a lot. For people that are not wealthy this really does not work. I have not carried a balance or paid interest anywhere in 15 years. I think I am okay. And I don't know anyone personally that does not find shopping fun. That is kind of the idea. And I was not speaking of myself about wanting something else (but I have been in the group) I referred to QVC customer in general that keeps them going. However when I do want something it is last clicks or as is cause I am not paying the crazy prices, Yhank you for your concern. I understand it was with good intentions.

They can't just lower prices if the cost of those goods has risen. They are a publicly traded company that has stockholders to appease. This is probably not the place for price sensitive customers.

Re: In The Minority

anxious1 — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:19:25 GMT

You are right. Not for price sensitive . Not for me I guess or people who are not wealthy or on a budget. Hopefully there are enough upper class to keep them going. It is a nice service. I am not sure how shareholders feel about how much of a downsize business has been lately but they can no doubt afford it. I have no idea how many clothing stores can offer reasonable prices. I really don't understand how it works. Thankfully it does. Once the middle name was Value. But times change and progress marches on.It really is nice the Dyson folks and Affinity Diamonds etc have a place to shop. Room in the world for everyone!

Re: In The Minority

GingerHead — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 01:03:05 GMT

@anxious1

I get it, I do love to shop and have new things.

But I've never been one too concerned with name brands etc. So I don't shop high end. I will spend a little more if something really speaks to my soul (haha) but for the most part I'm a bargain shopper and will buy "as is" or wait for sales.

I also shop Amazon and Walmart a lot for clothes and home goods. Really you don't have to spend alot nowadays for quality items.

For example, I have been shocked by the quality of Walmart fashions lately. I'm wearing an $18.00 sweater ($18.00!) right now that I was asked about by 2 different ladies while out shopping today.

Check out Walmart fashion finds on youtube, where people try on recent Walmart fashions. I know some people will say the clothes from Walmart and Amazon are cheap but a lot of times they are made with the same fabrics and look just as good as name brands, heck a lot of them are probably made in the same factories....

Walmart sweater I wore today:

Re: In The Minority

Tori3569 — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 03:09:46 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
You are right. Not for price sensitive . Not for me I guess or people who are not wealthy or on a budget. Hopefully there are enough upper class to keep them going. It is a nice service. I am not sure how shareholders feel about how much of a downsize business has been lately but they can no doubt afford it. I have no idea how many clothing stores can offer reasonable prices. I really don't understand how it works. Thankfully it does. Once the middle name was Value. But times change and progress marches on.It really is nice the Dyson folks and Affinity Diamonds etc have a place to shop. Room in the world for everyone!

QVC isn't really offering a service no one else is anymore. I'm sure you can find online sites to shop that appeal to you as well as work with your budget. The posters here are always finding good deals on other sites.

Value doesn't always mean less expensive; it's more about cost per wear or use. One doesn't have to be upper class to shop here either. I like to think there are offerings to suit many demographics, but as I said above, there are so many places to shop online, everyone can find one that works for them.

Re: In The Minority

webbgarner1 — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 05:07:56 GMT

I wonder how many qvc shoppers ()and the like such as hsn, shophq,JTV,shopLC ) boarder on being hoarders?

Re: In The Minority

CalminHeart — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 12:25:20 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
I realize I am way in the minority here and a lot of Q shoppers are blessed with a much better income than a few older people on a fixed income. I used to buy a LOT, but now I an out priced even by Denim and Co. Prices are up everywhere but I used to get great deals here which is why I bought a lot. I don't understand the prices on clothes etc. For me no matter how expensive something is the thrill/fun of something new fades very quickly and I am enticed by the next item. Now when I buy it has to be last clicks or as is etc. I know as soon as I wear it once I will want something else. Am I the only one?

Many years ago, I ran my finances into the ground because of this. I'm glad to not be a compulsive shopper anymore. Have you considered therapy?

What you save now may be the difference in the kind of place you'll be in when you can't live on your own anymore.

Re: In The Minority

We rescue cats — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 15:02:33 GMT

@anxious1 I'm so sorry that you are feeling anxious about finances, so many of us are concerned about things and are uncertain. Take good care, it's never easy to adjust to changes.

Re: In The Minority

Sooner — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 15:23:46 GMT

@anxious1 wrote:
All good points ladies. However you may have missed the part that said I USED to shop a lot I have not in a long time. My point is QVC is lsing money and instead of lowering price they raise it a lot. For people that are not wealthy this really does not work. I have not carried a balance or paid interest anywhere in 15 years. I think I am okay. And I don't know anyone personally that does not find shopping fun. That is kind of the idea. And I was not speaking of myself about wanting something else (but I have been in the group) I referred to QVC customer in general that keeps them going. However when I do want something it is last clicks or as is cause I am not paying the crazy prices, Yhank you for your concern. I understand it was with good intentions.

@anxious1 I used to find shopping fun, now I don't. That was a long time ago when I did. Now I'm finding donating and clearing out more fun. And reading a book has always been more fun for me than shopping.

Re: In The Minority

Shelbelle — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 16:29:05 GMT

Just an FYI, I buy lots of all new D and C on ebay, some great sellers of Q clothing on there. Low prices.

Re: In The Minority

songbird — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 17:36:24 GMT

I won't buy clothing from Amazon and Walmart. Although I buy a lot of practical items from Amazon. I just associate those with Amazon. I associate TV from Amazon too. And I won't step foot in Walmart for anything. I buy mostly jewelry from QVC. Hardly any clothes. Yet I buy a great deal of clothes from Banana Republic. I love clothes and jewelry. Since I still work, I buy. My husband is a shopper too, but not in stores. It's the stock market for him. He's spending money too. But unlike me, he gets money back!