If your wallet is on empty, it might need to cut back on the “treat yourself” mentality when it comes to shopping. It’s easy to mindlessly scroll for hours on end. However, before you know it, your online shopping cart is full of unnecessary items. That’s where TikTok’s Rule of 3s comes in.

It’s important to reevaluate your spending habits when you are overspending and it’s affecting your ability to save money. With the Rule of 3s, created by @hellsborough, helps you cut your overspending and maintain a mindful lifestyle and wardrobe.

Here is a look at the “Rule of 3s” and the three questions to ask yourself to cut overspending on fashion.

Can You Afford to Spend 3x Times the Cost?

If the item was three times the price, could you really afford it? If the answer is no, then chances are it’s too much for your current budget. You should only purchase items for your closet that don’t stretch your wallet thin. This ensures you are not overspending. 

You should not be breaking the bank every time you get the urge for online shopping or to hit up the mall. Those designer items are not worth going into debt or the inability to pay for basic necessities. Considering the cost, creates margin in your budget and allows you to really weigh the pros and cons of the price tag.

Would You Have Liked This Three Years Ago?

You should only purchase an item if you truly love it. One way to gauge your true sentiments on a potential new item for your closet is to think about your past self. Make sure that past and present you are in sync. Would a younger version of yourself three years ago wear this item? If not, chances are you might not love the item for the long haul. 

You might also try to apply this rule to the future. Would my future self three years from now wear this? However, it may not work the same as when considering your past self. The conundrum is you won’t really know what future you will and won’t wear, and your enthusiasm for the possibility of a new trendy item might cause you to put blinders up.

Would This Be the Third Similar Item?

While having different color options in an item is nice, ask yourself: Do you really need three? If you already have more than one of a similar type of shirt, jacket or denim, you should pause before adding to your cart. 

You don’t need another one just because it’s slightly different. Learn to reuse what you have and style existing pieces in your closet in new and unique ways.