Manila, Philippines — From the realm of TikTok trends that brought us “girl dinner” comes a new phenomenon known as “girl math.” It’s not about solving complex equations; rather, it’s a lighthearted strategy to justify those large or seemingly unnecessary purchases that add a sprinkle of thrill to our lives. While the calculations behind girl math are rooted in economic principles, the context and collective experience of being a woman infuse it with a sense of empowerment and indulgence.
Breaking down the art of girl math, it’s about using cost-per-wear, sunk cost, and prospective cost as the backdrop for rationalizing purchases. Say you snag a dress for $330. Channel girl math by rounding it down to $300, then divide that by the number of times you’ll wear it. Voilà, you’ve calculated a cost-per-wear that makes the splurge seem savvy. The trend doesn’t stop there; sharing, swapping, and reselling play into the equation, creating a cycle of playful financial planning.
Economist Brad Olsen assessed an example of girl math and gave it a thumbs up, stating that this kind of thinking is aligned with economic considerations and getting the most value for one’s money. It’s not just about frivolity; girl math underscores a thrifty approach to spending, celebrating the multifunctionality of items (like a tote bag that serves various purposes), embracing the notion of sunk costs (the logic that money spent can lead to further value), and understanding prospective costs (saving money by taking advantage of discounts).
What makes girl math especially intriguing is its subversive nature. It cheekily dismantles the stereotype that women are financially uninformed, instead encouraging women to playfully engage with their spending decisions while fostering camaraderie. It’s a trend that empowers us to view shopping with a twist of humor and practicality.
As TikTok videos abound showcasing women’s mastery of girl math, one thing is clear: it’s not about convincing anyone else. This is a tool for women to revel in, celebrate, and enjoy, whether that means justifying a splurge, finding joy in cost-per-wear calculations, or savoring the prospect of a future without high costs.
In a world that often dissects women’s spending habits, girl math offers a refreshing perspective that balances financial sense with a touch of whimsy. So go ahead, indulge in that fashion delight with a sprinkle of girl math, and relish in the empowering notion that sometimes, the best kind of calculations are the ones that bring a smile to your face.