Have you ever browsed through outfits online and imagined yourself wearing them? This phenomenon is called Fantasy Shopping and it is an interesting concept where people can curate their possible purchases through imagination. While fantasy shopping can be summed up as daydreaming, it is actually a healthy and even therapeutic way to set goals and make plans. So in this article, let’s explore fantasy shopping and how it can benefit you!
What is Fantasy Shopping?
Fantasy shopping is a form of daydreaming where people imagine purchasing items that are out of their reach financially. This can range from high-end luxury goods, expensive gadgets, and beautiful jewelry. As online shopping and social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have given everyone the ability and access to purchase anything from a couple of clicks away, fantasy shopping allows people to imagine a version of themselves that has everything they want.
Why Do We Shop for Imaginary Lives?
This tendency to pretend to shop for things we can’t buy yet says a lot about human psychology, because, for example, someone who is fantasy shopping for clothes may be trying to find the right outfit to express themselves. As the fashion changes by the season, this can potentially signal people as a way to reinvent themselves to prevent them from feeling like they are stuck in a rut. If you see a cool fall outfit from simply browsing online, you may feel compelled to imagine that you are wearing that outfit while sipping on a glass of wine at a vineyard. While this can be categorized as a form of escapism, it symbolizes our desires to want more.
The Role of Marketing in Fantasy Shopping
To some people’s surprise, advertising plays a significant role in fantasy shopping because many brands and stores are trying to amplify these fantasies so we become more likely to purchase their products. As marketers craft narratives where their products are featured in emotional scenarios that appeal to their senses and emotions, we become more susceptible to fantasy shopping with their products.
It’s no accident that we constantly find ourselves drawn to certain items as the seasons change, because there are a number of new marketing campaigns designed to play on our desires. Whether it’s the fresh spring look or the cozy feeling of autumn, we’re often chasing more than things like fashion; we’re chasing a refreshed version of ourselves, ready to embrace new possibilities like the stories they tell in commercials and ads.
The Psychology Behind Fantasy Shopping
Interestingly enough, this habit of imagining lives more glamorous than our actual reality isn’t anything new. From a young age, children engage in pretend play, embodying characters and scenarios far removed from their daily experiences. This imaginative play is vital for creativity, problem-solving, and empathy, and as adults, fantasy shopping could be seen as an extension of this behavior, allowing us to explore the world as it could be.
Tips for Fantasy Shopping
1.Setting Clear Intentions
Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item serves a purpose in your current lifestyle or if it’s solely for a fantasy scenario. This doesn’t mean you should never buy something just because it’s beautiful or brings you joy; rather, it’s about finding a balance. For instance, if you’re drawn to a glamorous evening gown with no event in sight, consider if it can be styled for more casual occasions that are more likely to happen.
2. Budgeting for Fantasy Purchases
Allocate a small portion of your shopping budget for items that capture your imagination. This way, you indulge your whims without compromising your financial well-being. It’s akin to treating yourself to a fancy dessert after a week of healthy eating—a delightful exception rather than the norm.
3. Embracing the Fantasy Without Purchasing
Sometimes, the joy lies in the fantasy itself. Create mood boards, either digitally or physically, of your imagined scenarios and the outfits that accompany them. This creative process can be surprisingly satisfying and allows you to live out your fantasies without the need for space-consuming or budget-straining additions to your wardrobe.
4. Invest in Versatile Pieces
Look for items that can be used for those rare, imaginary occasions but are practical enough for everyday use. A chic blazer, for example, can be worn at an art gallery opening or at a casual coffee shop, making it a practical yet aspirational choice.
Is Fantasy Shopping Healthy?
While it may seem frivolous to buy that dress for a winery visit that seems more fantasy than reality, it actually serves as a testament to imagination and hope. Each purchase that was made after fantasizing about it for hours is a little nod to our younger selves, who played dress-up and dreamed of adventure. It’s a recognition of the power of pretend play and its lasting impact on us.
However, balance is key. Recognizing when our shopping habits are driven by these fantasies can help us make more mindful decisions. It’s about recognizing the joy of anticipation without losing sight of practicality. While it’s perfectly okay to indulge in a bit of dream shopping now and then, it’s about blending it with thoughtful choices that align with our real lives.
