For some this budget 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 the 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.
September was a bad month for shopping for me… I came away with a few great pieces but I mostly did my shopping online this month - which isn't necessarily out of character for me - with little to no luck. I returned a TON of stuff that didn't fit or I didn't like - which is very out of character for me. I hate returning stuff and rarely, rarely do. I like to make final decisions in the fitting room. Not only is it a huge pain to run to a million stores (again) to return or pack up boxes to return I always just feel disappointed doing it. I hate to send back a gorgeous jacket or pair of jeans when they don't fit. So overall it was a weird shopping month. I feel like I am a little behind on my fall wardrobe because of it.
Let's take a look at the pieces I did buy and keep this month…
Black Drapey Sweater, LOFT, $54.50 with coupon $29.50 (worn here)
White Lace Front Sweatshirt, LOFT, $59.50 on promotion for $29.50 (worn here)
Grey Jeweled Sweatshirt, LOFT, $54.50 on promotion for $29.50 (worn here)
Grey Button Back 3/4 Sweater, LOFT, $44.50 on promotion for $29.50 (worn here)
Space-Dye Blouson Tank Dress, LOFT, $54.50 on promotion for $21.80 (worn here)
Scarf, Zara, $29.90
Total Spent: $169.70 (saved: $127.70)
Thoughts on the budget: Obviously when shopping doesn't go as planned and there are returns it can be good to be under budget! And last month I was quite over budget - so it does even the budget out a bit. I am thankful for that. LOFT always has great promotions and I took advantage of them this month for sure! There are a few stores where it never makes sense to buy an item full price… LOFT is one of those, they have so many great deals.
Thoughts on the pieces: I didn't mean to buy only from LOFT this month (with the exception of the scarf). But I really love their offerings lately. It's no surprise that I am into neutrals lately and this shopping month proved that as well. I am sure you gals will ask, so these are the items I returned: these boots, this jacket, these jeans, this jacket. These items would have definitely put me over budget and for October I am deciding if I should re-order in different sizing or not. Stay tuned!
Do you share your monthly shopping budget on your blog? I would love to read it - share in the comments!