Living in the Northern suburbs, one feels a bit like a magpie at times. Lots of pretty sparkly things, lots of temptations and every distraction you can conjure up in your pretty little, twenty something head.
You see, I earn a living selling luxury items ... artwork and diamonds. I work in the heart of Sandton – Joburg's flagship shopping district – and pass the brands Nine West, Louis Vuitton, Jenni Button, Marc Jacobs, Jimmy Choo, Christian Laboutin and (my own personal kryptonite) Marion & Lindie everyday on the short well-heeled march from my parking spot to my desk.
It's a tough job, but somebody's got to do it.
I have perfected the art of keeping my eyes focussed with laser precision on my blackberry every morning from the minute I step out of my (small but perfectly formed) Fiat Palio, until the 'ding dong' of the gallery's motion sensor alerts my colleagues to my arrival at work.
I have learnt that any deviation from my route inevitably leads to handing over a piece of plastic to an over eager sales assistant. Window shopping for me is like a recovering alcoholic convincing themselves that they can have just one sip of a margherita – not a good idea!
I consider myself fairly well disciplined ... I buy no name brand groceries, I belong to every loyalty programme that gives me cash back points for purchases, I've got a medical aid that offers free gym membership and my favourite bottle of vino is a cheap and cheerful R19.95 low calorie, low alcohol Sauvignon Blanc. From toiletries to cleaning products I know how to get a bargain!
Why then, does a six-inch heel or a shiny patent leather bag have the power to shatter my resolve like a bowling ball being hurtled into a Swarovski crystal chandelier? If I could answer that then I could probably single-handedly take down the Godzilla-type monster that so innocently labels itself 'retail therapy'.
Comments
I too am a penny pincher, however lately have developed an affection for electronic goodies. Combine that with my love of Missoni, Michael Kors, high-end skin care and other designers who shall remain nameless.
Will have to remember to keep my Blackberry directly in front of my face if I am in your town so that temptation doesn't bite.