October 16, 2006 | 3:00 pm

What’s Wrong With Too Much Shopping?

A recent Stanford University study caught my eye — according to it, about 1 in 20 Americans suffers from a shopping addiction. The researchers even gave it a scary, clinical name: Compulsive Buying Disorder. (Uh, in my mind, “disorder” just applies to the state of my closet after a shopping spree.) But perhaps I’m not the most objective person on this matter. I first realized I had a real problem when I was moving from London back to New York, and for insurance purposes I had to itemize and appraise all the items in my closet (full disclosure: it wasn’t even a closet, it was a second bedroom in the flat). I almost passed out when I saw the total… But I do feel better knowing that I am not the only one who shops to excess — or even just loves to shop, like Jessica Alba (left) and Kelly Osbourne (right). Tell us: Do you consider yourself to be a shopping addict? – Julie Dam

Check out more Stars Shopping in our photo gallery.

Photo: MWD/X17; Castro/X17

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Angie

If I had their kind of money, I would be shopping like they do! But, I’m definitely not that kind of shopper now.

Carly

Nothing at all wrong with compulsive shopping, as long as you aren’t going into debt and others can also benefit from your largesse! Consider donating the many, many, many thousands of items just gathering dust in your closet/second bedroom to charities or organizations that help women get back on their feet. That way you free up space for more lovely items and help others at the same time!

Renata ShoeGal

I agree with the study… I have such a shopping addiction that I had to rent a more expensive apartment just because of closet space. Well, as Samantha ( from Sex and the City) would most certainly say: What the hell!
I do not have Gisele Bundchen’s butt, Jen Aniston’s legs, nor do i have Scarlett Johansson’s boobs… I gotta get me something that is going to give me star power, like my Loubotins or Fendi Bag!

Chelle

yeah definately an addict!!!…i go shopping at least two times a week and i can’t walk out of a store without buying something…even if it’s something i’ll never wear…and my biggest addiction of all is cosmetics and shoes…at one point i owned 221 pairs (ranging from $40-$400)!!!

olatz

I think you must to be very bored and have a very empty life to buy so much.

Ah! and a lot of money an FREE time.

marianne

I love shopping, but i spend my money, no credit cards, or stores cards, I had to get rid of them, I am dangerous when it comes to spending money in clothes, shoes, etc…but I do donate my clothes to salvation army or thrift stores !

sally

“what’s wrong with too much shopping?” What’s wrong with trying to fill the emptiness in your life with material posessions? Ever notice how quickly the *buzz* wears off and your newest acquisition is forgotten?

Abby Caldwell

I’m addicted to the thrill of a good buy! I love to find great things for a good deal. I hit Ross at least once a week and get name brands for cheap; shop-a-holic on a college budget! I also go shopping if I’ve had a hard day as a stress release. I figure since I don’t spend my money on drinking or smoking I’m justified in my addiction.

elaine

whats wrong with too much shopping? I saw nothing…as long as you can afford it

Bunky

You’re dead for a real long time
You just can’t prevent it
So if money can’t buy happiness
I guess I’ll have to rent it
-”Weird” Al Yankovic

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Edited by Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

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