This week I wore this apron dress. I saw it at a boutique a couple of weeks ago. The selling point was that the owner was wearing it and it looked really cute on her. I’m usually don’t pay full retail on clothes unless it’s absolutely something I have to have, and there was something about it that made me had to have it.

Two months after I initially saw it, I was still thinking about it. I did one trip this past weekend to take a look at it again. I started to think to myself “do I really want to pay $70 for an apron dress I could probably make on my own???” I proceeded to think of what other items I could buy with $70 (i.e. Gas for a week!). I decided not to buy it, but as the next couple of days rolled by I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Usually I’m pretty good if it’s not a necessity and I won’t think about it again. After asking others their opinions on the dress, I decided to do a second trip and bought the dress. I started to think what ways I could justify the $70.

1) Its a local boutique. 2) It’s made by a local designer. 3) Its really cute!

“Local” is the keyword here. Many consumers are pushing in the direction of supporting their local culture and actively participating in their community. “Locasumers” support local businesses, groups, and events. Examples of what a locasumer may enjoy include: swap meets, farmers’ markets, community clean ups, vintage stores, local art/handmade products, ride/bike shares, group events and bike rides.

Photo: The Kids Are Alright

NIECEE’s TAKE AWAYS:

• For the good of the economy. I talked about how being a locasumer is a going to be a future trend. You may have noticed that most people if it’s available to them are willing to try and support local businesses than supporting chains.