by Jan-Olov von Wowern

The role and position of noblewomen in later medieval Europe is a subject about which comparatively little has been written. The noblewomen, particularly those of higher nobility, usually found themselves in a situation where it was taken for granted they would marry and strengthen position of family by forming a union with a man of similar (or better) standing. Then, as now, importance of continuation of family line was a constant concern. For gentlemen who were "upwardly mobile" marriage to a noblewoman of high standing could be means of getting estates and allies.

It was not unusual to find noblewomen holding and inheriting land and estates. She could have inherited them from her father, brother or a deceased husband, and in many regions this was fully accepted. The male line in a noble family could become extinct for a number of reasons: sons could die on battlefield, they could die of one of many diseases, some would go into Church and be celibate, etc. So in many cases continuation of entire family depended on succession through female line, which (certainly in case of absence of male heirs) was usually accepted.

According to a recent report by WGSN (Worth Global Style Network), 28% of women HATE to shop for clothes. To them, it's a four-letter word that produces stress and anxiety any time they think about hitting mall.

Now for 26% of women who absolutely LOVE to shop and frequently ease their woes with retail therapy, this may be inconceivable. How can anyone NOT enjoy thrill of hunt or big bargain score? Who doesn't love modeling new clothes in front of mirror or being asked incessantly, “Great outfit! Is it new?”

The answer? Plenty of people.

And for many women who hate to shop, problem has little to do with money. In fact, according to WGSN, when these women actually force themselves to go buy clothes, they rarely look for bargains.

Instead, they tend to avoid mall because:

1.They don't know what kinds of clothes look best on them.

2.They don't follow fashion and don't want to look ridiculous or dated in their purchases.

3.They're easily flustered when they can't find what they're looking for quickly.

4.They feel uncomfortable trying on clothes in dressing rooms.

5.They may have put on a lot of weight and either can't find clothes that fit or don't want to face fact that they need a larger size.

6.They hate crowds.

Does any of this sound familiar?

If you can really relate to this list, here are some tips to make shopping easier, less expensive, and far less frustrating than you may have experienced in past:

1. Determine Your Body Shape

Start by taking a good look at your birthday suit in mirror next time you change clothes or step out of bath. Are your hips bigger than your chest? Your chest bigger than your hips? Is your waist same size as your chest and hips? Does your body resemble an hourglass? Make a note. Look for clothes shaped same way you are when you hit stores. This will lead to fast success and minimal frustration.

2. Determine Your Lifestyle

What kinds of clothes work best in your current situation? Do you need business wear? Jeans? Ball gowns? If your lifestyle is 60% work, 20% social, and 20% leisure, for example, or 90% work and 5% social and 5% leisure, then your wardrobe should reflect as much. Otherwise, you may be hard pressed to find something to wear for those activities where you spend least amount of time.

3. Assess Your Needs and Make a List

Once you know your shape and your lifestyle, it's time to go through your closet and see what you need. If you're short on tops, put them on list. Feel fabulous in a coatdress? Add a few more. Love your black A-line skirt? Buy another one in dark blue.