The Statue of Liberty is going nowhere but, the latest MAC lipstick may disappear before you can blink thrice.

Is 'to shop till you drop' an incurable disease or a therapeutic hobby? A misuse of money or an investment that guarantees good photo opportunities? A destructive cycle or a sacred way of life? Rooting vociferously for the latter, Nisha Jhangiani delves into her own personal experiences with shopping, hoping that the sheer pleasure associated with this art, finds takers in all women everywhere, anywhere…

I admit... shopping gives me a sense of serene satisfaction unlike anything else (food follows closely in second place). And I honestly believe it has the same effect on every feminine soul in the cosmos…my strongest yin bonds stem from conversations that revolve around diet disasters (food follows closely in second place for many other lunching ladies too) and highly coveted luxe buys.

Having stated the above, I hasten to add that I have an unshaken belief in the fact that a majority of my spending sprees are need-based. After all, who doesn't need a pair of purple stilettos, or a crystal flower belt or twenty pairs of low-rise, high-waisted, bootleg, straight-fit, acid-washed, navy, embroidered, classic, everyday, semi-formal, evening-wear denims! For all those who agree…read on and nod on. For those who don't…try it before trashing it…

TO COVET IS TO CONQUER

A recent trip to the capital for a friend's wedding, deepened the firm faith in my never say die gal pals, who scouted every nook and cranny for me, in order to procure a 'butter-soft pashmina, with shaded, furry borders along the edge. Grab one that also has diamanté scallops if you can!' (An acquaintance kindly offered this information, without any mention of where I could actually find such a masterpiece of heavenly warmth.) Two days passed before we hit the jackpot, at a tiny boutique tucked away in the recesses of a sprawling multi-store complex - delicious wraps in candied hues, absolutely inappropriate for balmy Mumbai. But then, logic and desire seldom complement each other. We all eagerly offered our credit cards and gaily walked out (frantically waved away by the harassed sales manager) with our apricot, toffee, green apple and butterscotch stoles, two hours late for the friend's reception but with the knowledge of a job well done.

KEEP THE FLAME BURNING

The dedication of a true shopper never diminishes…there is always something, somewhere, waiting to be lovingly held in her arms, cherished and appreciated (and maybe discarded two months later, occasionally without ever having been worn but, we are not arguing technicalities here).

Which is why, a sourcing trip for a style shoot always presents an irresistible opportunity for yet more fashion finds, as does a holiday to London, Kuala Lumpur or even Pune (Karen Millen and Portobello flea market, The Twin Towers shopping mall and the makeshift stalls at Koregaon Park respectively). Keep eyes open and wallet handy, a beautiful must-have could fall into your lap and metamorphose your Saturday night.

Cases in point: a black poncho with Kashmiri embroidery, bought as a last ditch effort to keep covered, yet fairly layer free (less time removing and re-wearing in changing rooms, more time to add on to a definitive pile of purchases) on a limited sojourn to Milan, has now become the fad of the moment (I was being forward thinking without knowing it!) Two dozen brass bangles from Linking Road, Bandra, that totally upped the ante of a flower girl outfit for a '60s theme party. A vintage clutch purse, with pink appliquéd roses and an enamelled frame, that goes with nothing in particular but nevertheless manages to become the stunning focus of a mismatched ensemble.

BROWNIE POINTS MATTER

Spreading happiness is an unquestionable good deed…buying the ideal cardigan for yourself, your mother, your best friend and your shivering colleague at work, is nothing short of magical. A reward therefore, is the next natural course of action and a set meal at The Thai Pavilion, Mumbai, is a perfectly acceptable bonus to grant yourself (if the snug shrug doesn't fit after the bout of over-indulgence, opt for a second round of shopping - chikan drawstring pyjamas this time, though).

My ultimate prize, has, however, been a carefully compiled set of rules to live by…with inputs from fellow-shoppers, like-minded thinkers and all credit card companies. May these 'Ten Commandments' lift your spirits (and overload your wardrobe) too - after all, if any addiction needs to become a prerequisite for good living, this is it.

Be guilt free. Shopping is about pleasure, not pain.

Put aside time for this freeing experience. In reality, anytime is the right time.

False promises are for the foolhardy. If you never need another pair of shoes for a lifetime, don't tell yourself so (this will only induce uncontrollable urges for more high heels). Simply accept that you require additional storage space for them.

Be practical. If you're going to splurge on a Gucci jacket, make sure you have the correct (read consequently purchased) bottoms and accessories to go with it, so that waste is avoided.

Sporadic detours to food marts, book stores and art galleries are allowed. Shopping is the key binding force.

Find a man who understands your style and can shop well for you. Life will be easier and full of exciting surprises.

Prioritise when on a trip. First, the high streets, then the street theatre. The Statue of Liberty is going nowhere but, the latest MAC lipstick may disappear before you can blink thrice.

Economising is good once in a while. The Tarun Tahiliani Swarovski blouse can successfully be paired with cotton crinkled skirts from Fashion Street, Mumbai (this rule is a bit ambiguous and need not be religiously adopted).

Make the attic your best resort in dire times (remember Mum's vintage purse? Attic, take a bow).

Never give up. If you want a tasselled tote with pompoms, believe that it's out there and find it…shopping is not for the meek or the weak!