How to Go Mall Shopping

 

Mall shopping may seem like a simple task, but the sheer size of South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa immediately changes that. South Coast could be a city in itself, and it has something to offer everyone. But knowing how to go mall shopping requires some strategy.

How to Go Mall Shopping

From your typical fast-fashion chains to the most expensive designers in the world, South Coast is full to the brim with options. Therefore, if you’re going to make the most of your trip, you have to have a plan of attack. 

Step 1: Preparations

Taking on a mall that’s bigger than most midwestern towns is a daunting task, and you should be prepared. Orange county people are known for their relaxed but expensive fashion, so dress up but opt for walkable shoes. In addition to looking the part, you’ll want to pack pandemic essentials. This includes a mask, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes. Big bags may not be as popular as they were ten years ago, but you’re going to want a medium-sized hobo or trapeze style bag to carry your belongings for the day. 

Step 2: Identify Your Goals

If your only goal is to wander around and take in the luxury of Costa Mesa’s shopping experience, that’s great! However, if you have specific items you need or gifts you want to find, you should try to identify those goals early on. From there you can space out the time you have to give to each individual goal, saving yourself from the panic of trying to buy things at the last minute. 

Step 3: Reconnaissance 

Costa Mesa shopping goes far beyond South Coast Plaza, but the mall is at the heart of it all. With more than 250 boutiques and an even wider range of shops in the surrounding complex, South Coast has too many stores to properly visit in one day. That’s why it’s so important to do your research ahead of time if you have specific shopping goals. 

South Coast’s online directory is easy to navigate by category, providing you with a complete list of the shops that are likely to sell the items you’re looking for. You can also click on each shop for a description, phone number, and precise map location. With this information and a little online sleuthing, you’ll know exactly where you want to shop. 

Step 4: Set Up a Budget

It is so tempting to spend everything when you’re surrounded by so many gorgeous items, but you want your entire trip to be as fabulous as your shopping experience. In order to make sure you can fully enjoy the dining and entertainment available to you in Costa Mesa, set a budget that feels comfortable for you. 

If you have multiple shopping goals, divide that budget appropriately to smoothly achieve each goal. With that said, if you find something absolutely fabulous, you can always make adjustments elsewhere in your budget to make room for something you really love. 

Step 5: Plan Your Relaxation

It’s so easy to get swept up in the day and the beauty of South Coast, but it’s really important to give yourself time to recharge. To make sure you get the most out of your experience, book your reservations for lunch and dinner ahead of time. That will force you to take a break, eat, and enjoy a few fun libations during the day. As a touch of additional fun, you can always look into booking an evening spa treatment to help you wind down for the day. 

Shopping in Costa Mesa

Shopping isn’t for everyone, but if you can’t get enough then Costa Mesa is definitely a “bucket list” location. With a wide range of local creators and international designers spread throughout the city, you’ll have a blast every time.