Starting Thread 2 as Thread 1 has nearly reached the comment limit.
For anyone new: this thread has a specific purpose. If you are considering buying something but deep down would prefer to save your money, post a link to the item. Other posters will help talk you out of it.
Humour and gentle mockery are very much part of how this thread works, alongside more practical points. Sometimes a light-hearted comment helps something click; other times it’s about noticing details that are easy to miss when you’re tempted.
Common tactics include:
- poking fun (so please don't post something if your feelings will be hurt by this)
- pointing out that you already own something that serves the same purpose
- spotting poor quality, flimsy construction or inferior fabrics hiding behind good photography
- questioning whether the item solves a problem that actually exists
- translating marketing language into plain English
What this thread is not:
- mocking people who wear the item
- ageist sniping (calling something “granny” is actually praise)
- cruelty for its own sake
The target is the thing, not the person.
The previous thread is here: https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/style_and_beauty/5482885-de-influencing-thread-reasons-why-not-to-buy-things?latest=1
In it we covered a lot of ground including a sad tangerine skirt, another one that looked like it was tucked into your underpants, Gary Glitter shoes, saggy bottoms, air wraps gathering dust and lots of polyester at premium prices.
Also worth restating, based on Thread 1:
This is not a balanced debate thread. It is not “let’s hear both sides”. People who posted positive comments about items were, quite rightly, sent to the naughty corner. This is not the thread for that.
This thread is for people who want to be de-influenced, not gently nudged towards a purchase they already know they’re going to make.
If you’re hovering over Add to basket and need someone to say “step away”, post the link.
If you’re good at spotting polyester pretending to be wool, please contribute.
Thread 2 begins. Same format. Same aim.