Women favour practicality over "Bling"

Women aren’t as fanciful about “bling” as what people think. In fact, it seems that most women favour realism over diamonds these days.

“Maybe it’s got something to do with the recession and everyone becoming more cautious about how they spend their money, but women are actually more concerned with making practical, safe investments than spoiling themselves,” says Robyn Farrell, managing director of 1st for Women Insurance Brokers, referring to the findings of a recent consumer survey in the United States and Canada.

According to the survey, conducted by a paint company, 85% of women would choose a $5 000 room makeover over a pair of diamond earrings worth the same amount. Men are also erring on the practical-side, 88% of them said they’d choose home improvements over an expensive new watch. 81% of men also said they’d spend time and money on home improvement projects to make their partner happy.

Farrell believes that given the shape of the economy and the property market, it’s a good thing that men and women agree that their money is better spent on improving the aesthetics and value of their homes rather than expensive jewellery.

“It’s also uplifting to live in a space that you feel inspired and comfortable in, not to mention proud to invite friends and family into,” says Farrell, adding that a lick of paint and new garden furniture might be all it takes to rejuvenate a home.

In the face of tightening budgets, many South African homeowners might choose to implement home improvement projects themselves rather than call in experts to do it for them. Farrell says that’s all good and well – provided the homeowner is comfortable and able to execute the tasks at hand.

“Changing a lamp-fitting or installing a garden water feature is one thing, but repainting the exterior of your home or building a veranda is something else altogether. Home improvement projects can go horribly wrong. Be realistic about what you are able to achieve on your own and what should ideally be carried out by someone who knows what they are doing, otherwise it can cost you way more than you bargained for. You should also check with your short-term insurer that you are covered for DIY mishaps such as paint spillage on furniture and the like,” advises Farrell.

She concludes with a reminder to women who opt for new jewellery over a fresh coat of paint this Christmas.

“If it’s diamonds you’re after and you happen to get spoiled with something expensive and shiny this Christmas, remember to update your insurance.”