Wallet-Friendly Retail Therapy: Where do you get your fix?

One of my biggest weaknesses is retail therapy; that feeling of satisfaction and temporary happiness that comes with buying something -- sometimes, anything. I have a friend who hits up William Sonoma whenever she's frustrated with the rest of her life. Granted, she has a paycheck that can support such shopping sprees. I'm not saying retail therapy is bad (it ain't good), but for those of us who need it, it's helpful to know where we can go in the hood to get that fleeting feeling without breaking the bank.

You can spend hours choosing candles. Photo: Timeout.comOn a recent Saturday, I set out with a friend who was in the mood to buy stuff. We hit up Laytner's Linen and Home on Union, a home furnishing store equipped with kitchen gadgets and high-thread count sheets. I ended up with satin pillowcases for under $10. After smelling every bath salt, linen spray, and incense, my friend walked out with a great candle that cost less than a single Andrew Jackson bill.

Next we stopped at Bob and Judi's Coolectibles on 5th Avenue. The mom and pop shop is filled with trinkets sure to satisfy any retail therapy itch. My friend quickly found a photo frame made of antique tin tiles for $5. Emptyhanded, I went next door to Glow Accessories for something that truly felt indulgent. The tiny accessories boutique is filled with earrings, necklaces, clutches and spring scarves. After picking up a few costume rings, I finally settled on a statement piece for $27. It was enough to put away the wallet and be content with my purchases.

You know when you just NEED an antique frame?Retail therapy is inherently a female activity, yet studies show men enjoy those impulsive buys as much as we do.

So whether you're working out some issues or just looking to burn through money, tell us where you go for a retail therapy fix in Park Slope.