Top tips for a stress-free shopping experience

“Preparation is key.” says stylist and friend of the Village Liesbeth Verlinden. Check your wardrobe before your visit to determine what you already have and what you’re missing.” If you’re feeling extra organised, Liesbeth suggests making a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves so you can decide what’s essential and what’s additional. She adds “Head to the Village website to see what promotions your favourite boutiques are offering before you arrive, so you can plan your visit accordingly. Plus, be sure to wear a comfortable outfit to make trying on even quicker.”

This new era of shopping requires a dose of common sense – keep your distance, stick to the rules and try to shop during quieter hours where possible. “To avoid the crowds, I try to shop in the morning or evening, outside of peak hours.” says Liesbeth. In January, the Village is open until 8 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. She suggests applying common sense to what you’re purchasing as well – “Opt for basics, like a good quality black T-shirt, over spontaneous or extravagant purchases. You’ll find designer pieces at Maasmechelen Village with up to 50% off the outletprice – choose investment items that you’ll get the most wear out of, that will stay in your wardrobe for a long time.”

Home to more than 100 boutiques from a range of international fashion and lifestyle brands, Maasmechelen Village is the perfect place to shop with the new government guidelines in mind. Enjoy a day of exploring your favourite boutiques, all in one open-air shopping destination. If you need help planning your route in advance, simply use the Village map on the Maasmechelen Village website or mobile app.

Shopping is limited to two people per party, excluding minors of the same family. But shopping alone has never felt so savvy. “It’s a great opportunity for some me-time.” says Liesbeth. “If you can’t decide on an item, take a picture of yourself wearing it and think about it for a while. Or if you need someone else’s opinion, send them the picture and see what they think.” She praises the use of digital tools and accepts they’ll become a key part of the ‘new normal’ shopping experience