Sobering Up in All Forms
Taming the Urge to Over-Shop and Embracing Financial Freedom
In our fast-paced digital world, consumerism is more potent than ever. There’s always a new trend, a must-have item, or an algorithm pushing us to add to our cart. For many women, social pressures and targeted advertising play a unique and powerful role in shaping spending habits. Studies show that women, influenced by societal expectations to look a certain way and stay up-to-date with trends, often feel an added pressure to consume. This pressure is compounded by how women are socialized from a young age to value appearance, presentation, and social belonging—a prime target for brands using social media influencers and ads to create a sense of “must-have” urgency. Remember what Dawnn Karen highlights in her Psychology of Fashion book, brands are working to separate you from your hard earned cash through any means necessary.
The Journal of Consumer Psychology highlights that women are more likely than men to engage in emotional or impulsive shopping due to stress, and brands capitalize on this by presenting products as quick solutions to confidence, appearance, and social acceptance issues. Targeted ads on platforms like Instagram tend to be more effective on women, often promoting fashion, beauty, and wellness, items that tap into societal pressures emphasizing physical appearance and social status.
Many influencers create carefully curated “perfect” lifestyles that subtly suggest happiness and fulfillment are tied to specific products. Due to long-standing cultural expectations that frame women’s worth around outward beauty and social standing, these marketing tactics can make consumerism feel like a tool for maintaining self-esteem, status, and social belonging. There is change and a trend toward “de-influencing” that pulls back the curtain on just how “real” the lives of those pushing you to buy that $100 La Mer creme are.
Frequent impulse buys, especially those driven by social media or online ads can contribute to mounting debt, especially among women who may already be navigating the challenges of the wage gap and higher living costs. Statistics Canada reports that debt levels among Canadian women are rising, partly attributed to discretionary spending on fashion, beauty, and home goods—categories that advertising specifically tailors to women and is more than a financial issue; it can lead to financial insecurity, stress, and even mental health challenges due to the ongoing cycle of spending and debt accumulation. There is hope, new companies such as Dow Janes and The Women’s Financial Learning Centre as part of Money Coaches Canada are making access to education around finances tailored to women.
Overconsumption and fashion often go hand in hand, but breaking the habit doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. One of the most rewarding changes I’ve made is shopping my own closet. If you’re anything like me, you might have pieces you’ve forgotten about or haven’t worn in ages. Revisiting your wardrobe can be a surprisingly creative exercise—mixing and matching items in new ways, rediscovering hidden gems, and making the most of what you already own. The same goes for beauty products; when was the last time you audited your vanity? Often, we already have more than enough to work with.
When it’s time to add something new, I turn to second-hand shopping and pre-loved clothing. This has been my go-to for years, offering a budget-friendly and sustainable way to stay on trend. I love reading up on the latest styles, then hunting for similar pieces in thrift shops or online resale platforms. It’s a mindful, creative process that feels more intentional—and less like a rushed decision to soothe a rough day. Shopping second-hand not only aligns with my values but also lets me craft a unique, personalized wardrobe without constantly buying new.
Living a maximalist, vibrant life doesn’t have to mean endless spending. In fact, part of the beauty of a maximalist mindset is the creativity to repurpose, reimagine, and truly cherish each piece in your collection. Here are some ways to curb the urge to over-shop while still creating a life full of richness and style:
Set Intentions Before You Shop: Next time you’re tempted to go shopping, ask yourself why. Is it boredom, a need for comfort, or the thrill of something new? Identifying the emotional trigger can help you pause and consider whether buying that item aligns with your financial goals and values.
Prioritize Experiences Over Things: Studies have shown that spending on experiences, rather than possessions, brings longer-lasting happiness. Join a workshop, plan a day trip, or simply have a coffee date with a friend. These activities can be equally fulfilling and offer memories and personal growth without the baggage of more “stuff”.
Attend Financial Literacy Events: Financial literacy can be a game-changer for managing finances effectively. Many organizations host panels and workshops that provide budgeting tips, debt management strategies, and investment advice geared toward women. These events can empower you to make mindful choices and equip you with tools to manage and reduce debt.
Be Mindful of Social Media Influence: With so much curated content, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing out if you’re not buying the latest “must-have” items. Limit your exposure to accounts that promote excessive consumerism and instead follow influencers who champion sustainability, creativity, and intentional living.
Build a Support System: Friends and communities who support your goals. Whether it’s through an accountability partner or a financial literacy group, having someone to share your journey with can make a world of difference. This network can help keep you focused on meaningful goals instead of short-lived shopping urges.
Breaking free from the cycle of over-shopping is about much more than just reducing expenses—it’s about reclaiming your financial power and embracing a life that feels abundant in experiences, relationships, and growth. By making intentional, mindful choices, you can live out a maximalist lifestyle that celebrates richness in every area without financial strain. After all, the greatest investments are those that uplift and empower us, bringing true joy and freedom to our lives.
Empower yourself with knowledge, be intentional in your choices, and create a life that’s full, free, and uniquely yours.
xoxo Rhiannon
Sources and Resources
Journal of Consumer Psychology. “Impulsive and Emotional Shopping Tendencies in Women.”
American Psychological Association. “The Effect of Social Media Advertising on Spending Habits.”
Harvard Business School. “How Influencer Marketing Affects Consumer Behavior.”
Statistics Canada. “Debt Levels Among Canadian Women.”
Canadian Mental Health Association, “Financial Stress and Mental Health”
Money Coaches Canada https://moneycoachescanada.ca/womens-financial-learning-centre/
Dow Janes - https://www.dowjanes.com/