Each month this year I have paused at the end of the month to take a look at my spending as it's related to my closet. Each month my target budget is $300. For some this may sound like a lot and for others it may not... for me personally this is my monthly goal. It works for my budget and lifestyle and doesn't break that bank. Shopping budgets are a personal thing, but I share mine here to show how I stretch my budget and work to create a well curated and fully stocked closet.
Some months doing this post is like nails on a chalkboard to me... it's not exactly pleasant! This past month I went way over budget - eek! However I will say that I have absolutely no shoppers remorse and I never put clothing items on a charge card so I don't feel guilty. (note: I do use a Gap card to take advantage of cardholder perks but I pay off my balance each month, no questions asked. I do not recommend spending more than you are able. Ever.)
What I enjoy about these posts is that is does make me take a hard look at my closet and spending whereas in years past I haven't been so vigilant about it.
(not shown - sold out online)
Gap, Leopard Belt... $16.99 at 30% off, $11.89
J.crew Factory, Crystal Flower Bracelet... $29 at 50% off, $14.50
Total Spent: $562.44 (total saved: $283.70)
Some thoughts on the budget... obviously, it's blown. BUT I saved a lot. So I feel good about the savings. And most importantly I love all the pieces I purchased, so budget-be-damned I am happy with my spending for this month. I also have been telling myself that I should take a break for June. We will see if I can hold out on that, usually I'm not very good at it. I will say however, in past years my heaviest times of spending are spring and fall. So I may be able to resist.
Some thoughts on the pieces... A few of the pieces were replacement items (leggings & flip flops) but most of my spending this month was focused on summer apparel. Gap and J.Crew Outlet were my large hauls and both of those were at a really great discount (30% off and 50% of respectively). My purchases from Gap were super basic and versatile and ALL of the pieces that I purchased there this past month are already in heavy rotation, so I know I made sound purchases. The J.Crew Factory purchases were a STEAL in my book at 50% off (their Memorial Day sale). Every time I buy from J.Crew Factory I am more and more surprised at the gorgeous pieces, the great quality and the prices. I think that this is one of my favorite stores these days.
I will also say that I have really enjoyed getting dressed each day. First it's fun to have new pieces (that is always the case) but summer dressing is so fun. I find a lot of joy in my carefully curated closet these days and I think there is something commendable about that. I really, really like clothes. I do! So I like to see that I am investing in ways to make the process of getting dressed fun lately.
Think I can go without spending in June? (we are 6 days in and so far so good!)
