Shopping... a word that fills us with both happiness and dread. Seeing as we consider ourselves fairly experienced in this field, we decided it was time to impart a few of the lessons we've learned along the way. You might identify with some of these. Beware of the "SALE" sign It's very tempting to go a bit mad when you stumble across a sale and snap up multiple bargains. Be careful here, as there's no point buying just for the sake of it. In fairness, WHERE are you going to wear those zebra print culottes? Appropriate footwear You're probably going to be walking a fair bit, so comfortable shoes are a necessity. Don't make the rookie mistake of wearing the shoes you bought on your last shopping trip, that haven't yet been broken in. OUCH.   Dress for the weather It's Ireland and humid sticky weather is to be expected. The last thing you want is to be stuck inside a changing room, wriggling in and out of layer after layer after layer. You'll get sticky and sweaty and VERY frustrated. Make a list So you might not stick to it but at least if you plan ahead, you'll feel like you have some notion of what it is you're meant to be looking for. Take a break (or three) Coffee and cake. Need we say anymore?! Plan ahead We're all for a last minute Saturday shopping trip but if you're on a mission and HAVE to get something for an occasion, try to shop on a weekday. Less people, more space = no stress. Carry an extra bag Irish weather can pose a few problems when it comes to shopping. You get caught in a shower, your paper shopping bag splits open and your new purchases land on the floor. Carrying a lightweight fold-up bag in your handbag solves this problem. Don't panic Try not to worry too much if you can't find what you're looking for. Chances are when you're looking for something specific, you won't be able to find it. Don't panic buy either as most of the time, you'll end up back at the shop a day later. Bring a trusted companion It's always good to have the opinion of someone you know, who will tell you the honest to God truth. Your best friend or your Mam or your sister who knows that green really isn't your colour even if you insist on trying it on, every single time. No regrets There is nothing worse than coming home from a shopping trip and wishing you had bought a particular item. Buy it, you can always return it. It's so much worse if you don't buy it and then it's gone.... NOOOOOOOOO.