“Girl Math” and its Aftermath

The idea of “Girl Math” is going viral across platforms in an attempt to explain shopping habits. The concept is to break down a large ticket item into a number of uses to justify the bill. For example, a designer item might have a $900 price tag; however, assuming it’s a nonseasonal item, you use it 5 days a week. At 52 weeks a year, in theory that would bring the bag to $3.46 per outing.

This concept is not necessarily new, many skincare companies have trained salespeople to break down the cost of usage by day or application. Consumers began to rationalize that the bottle of expensive face wash, used for 3 months, went down to a dollar or two a day. This can also go beyond basic shopping. Home improvements, new appliances or electronics or even a new vehicle can all be rationalized using “Girl Math”.

 However, here’s the hidden dangers consumers should keep in mind when rationalizing big purchases.

·       Make sure to consider seasons in the item– A seasonal item will math differently, especially if it’s trending. Fads don’t stick around for too many years at a time, and a season may be as short as a couple months.

·       Be realistic about how many times the item can be used without damage.– A higher or unrealistic number will bend the math in favor of the item. One wouldn’t expect a loaf of bread to last an extra month or two, so realism is a key factor in the formula.

·       Buying now instead of saving– Financial stewardship can be at major risk when justifying a purchase. If it isn’t a need, consider alternatives to the luxury item.

·       Buying the item today doesn’t break down the payments. · Buying with a credit card balance– Always remember that the interest rate adds to the purchase price of the item

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