EXCLUSIVE: Janeena Chan on Shopping Smarter, Living Better, and the Art of Consumption
Janeena Chan finds the sweet spot between splurging and saving, proving that balance isn’t only in your bank account—it’s a mindset
Between the call of a sale and the guilt of leaving a carbon footprint, modern shopping habits walk a precarious tightrope. Add in the influence of social media’s endless haul culture and the pressure to keep up with trends, and it’s no wonder our closets sometimes resemble chaotic confessionals. But for host and artist Janeena Chan, finding harmony between impulse and intention doesn’t mean giving up the fun. Shopping smarter, living better, and knowing when to indulge or hold back? Now that’s worth adding to your cart.
RELATED: To Buy or Not to Buy: That is the Question
Impulse or Intent? Finding the Sweet Spot
“I’m an Aries sun and a Libra moon,” Janeena declares, cheekily using astrology to frame her dual nature. She admits to a past life of impulsive shopping—one where bags were filled with things she wore twice before banishing them to the shadowy corners of her closet. But those days are behind her. Now, she leans into the idea of curation over collection.
“Is this something I can see myself growing old with?” she muses, a question that might as well be embossed on every shopping bag. Janeena champions timeless pieces but still allows space for those moments of joy—like indulging in a trend so irresistible it practically winks at her from the rack.
Trends can be hard to resist, and she isn’t about to let herself miss out on the fun. “You shouldn’t sacrifice these joys,” she says, acknowledging fleeting fashion moments. “But you can hold back a bit more on things that you can be more mindful with, especially for items that should be timeless.”
“Maybe a little impulsive shopping is okay, but just for the things you really, really love,” she adds. Consider it her version of balance: a closet that marries practicality with passion, where investment pieces mingle with statement items, and nothing feels like clutter.
Balance Beyond Beauty
Janeena notes that the goal of balance extends outside one’s buying habits. She handles her entire life with flexibility. “You don’t have to be so rigid,” she explains, emphasizing that balance isn’t about achieving perfection, but finding what works for you.
Regardless of whether it’s balancing work and play, appreciating trends while sticking to enduring pieces, or otherwise knowing when to say no, Janeena says the most important aspect is to remain adaptive. “You can always make up for it, but also know your boundaries,” she explains. “If something takes a toll on your health—mentally or physically—give yourself permission to take that break.”
Social Media’s Role: Savior or Siren?
When it comes to overconsumption, social media often plays the villain, its endless hauls and ‘add-to-cart’ culture coaxing followers to buy their 37th trinket. But Janeena offers a measured take. “It depends on the creator you follow,” she points out, acknowledging the need to curate your feed as thoughtfully as your wardrobe.
“Take everything you see online with a grain of salt,” she advises. Her secret is to follow accounts that align with your values and lifestyle, and learn to separate entertainment from actual need. It’s not just about saying no to marketing gimmicks—it’s about saying yes to yourself.
Wardrobe Zen: The 80/20 Rule
Janeena clarifies fashion isn’t about excess but equilibrium. “I’m 80-20,” she shares, describing her approach to wardrobe building. “80% timeless pieces I’ll keep wearing, and 20% fun items I buy just because I love them.”
This strategy is both pragmatic and liberating. By ensuring the bulk of her wardrobe consists of versatile staples, she frees herself from the chaos of overstuffed closets while indulging in the occasional spur-of-the-moment splurge. Think of it as mindful consumption with a playful edge—a Marie Kondo mindset but with room for sequins.
Consumption in All Aspects of Life
But Janeena isn’t just talking about tangible goods. “Consumption isn’t just shopping; it’s time, experiences, and relationships,” she reminds us. Whether she’s dining out, traveling, or simply binge-watching her favorite shows, she approaches life with the same intentionality she applies to her shopping habits.
“It’s about knowing what gives you that dopamine hit and balancing it with what truly satisfies you,” she says. For her, that means savoring experiences that enrich her life while remaining mindful of how her choices ripple out to others.
Balanced Living is Always in Style
In a culture that glorifies both excess and austerity, Janeena’s philosophy offers a middle ground. She embraces trends but doesn’t let them define her. She shops with intention but isn’t afraid to indulge. She curates her life—be it her closet, her relationships, or her time—through a lens of balance, knowing that true satisfaction doesn’t come from having it all but from appreciating what you have.
As Janeena Chan puts it, “Enjoy life, know your boundaries, and take that break when you need it.” Wise words from someone who’s learned that respecting the balance isn’t just shopping smarter, but living better.
Photographed by GABRIEL VILLAREAL. Photo Manipulation by ANNIKA SY. Creative Direction by GALLAHAN EAST. Art Direction by JONES PALTENG. Makeup by GERY PENASO for GUERLAIN PHILIPPINES. Hair by BRYAN EUSEBIO. Styled by MIGUEL DAQUILANG. Shoot Coordination by JOANA FERNANDO
EXCLUSIVE: Janeena Chan on Shopping Smarter, Living Better, and the Art of Consumption
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