Why yes, I did skip all of November, December, and January. I wasn't even that terrible with my budget those months...okay okay, maybe in January. I took advantage of super clearance sales and got a several "investment/long term" things to fill holes in my closet. I did the same this month. In fact, many of the items were so marked down that I couldn't even find them online to link to.
[ By the way, if you're new here and curious about these columns, check out my explanation in the archives. "Haul" posts these are not. ]
And this month I did well. Though I purchased a good amount, I sold a good amount [ $250 ] of gently worn items. I am still a Poshmark fangirl. I forced myself to adhere to the one in, minimum one out rule. I donated an epic amount of clothing to the women's shelter as well. We're talking 50+ items. I'm simplifying in many areas and as I'm figure out what's working for my current life, I'm focusing on filling those holes appropriately with thought and care. It's all a bit more mindful, which was my true goal.
Additionally, since I wrote this post, I've been able to keep a very narrow focus on the "uniform" I've outlined. I know the colors, fits, and styles that work best for me. I lust over stilettos, but I know I wear them less than once a month to special events. That's why you'll see nothing but boots, flats, and practical city shoes in these round ups.
I also explored the world of shopping for new with tags clothing on eBay. I don't know why I always forget about that option, but I got a Vince sweater and linen henley for less than what just the henley originally cost. I'll certainly be browsing for my favorite brands there on a more regular basis.
For the first month since starting this, I am under budget. And I intend to keep it that way!
Vince Sweater via eBay | J.Crew Wild Side Skinny Bangle | J.Crew Edie Bag [ bought it when it was in the sale section, on sale + 30% off ] | C.Wonder Skinny Calf Hair Belt | Ecco Wedges [ bought on super clearance at Macy's ] | Donald J. Pliner Black Flats [ bought on super clearance at Macy's ] | C.Wonder Elephant Buckle [ for the belts I bought here ] | DV by Dolce Vita Java Boots | Vince Henley via eBay | Fossil Gold Slippers
That J Crew bag is so pretty- and kudos for getting it on sale!
ReplyDeleteooh those flats are pretty! love this column, glad it is back!
ReplyDeleteI don't understand why it's back to full price - it was literally half what it is now!
ReplyDeleteswooning for those DV Java boots!
ReplyDeleteOh, good picks. I love the elephant.
ReplyDeleteUm, that bangle is awesome. Love it!!
ReplyDeleteso many gorgeous things! I love the colour of the belt and the little elephant, OK and the shoes, the shirt.....the bag.....
ReplyDeleteGirlfriend, I am so impressed by your ability to abide by your "uniform" and get pieces that all work so well together! And way to rock those sales too!
ReplyDeletexx
Here&Now
You got so many great pieces that totally work with your uniform. I always think about you when I go shopping and go "god, I wish I could really nail down my look - this would be so much easier!" You will always look so chic and pulled together. I really admire that.
ReplyDeleteGreat pieces! The color in the belt is so pretty and I like the bracelet!
ReplyDeleteI have that J. Crew bangle and I adore it! As much as I hate cheating on Stella & Dot, that's a great choice and I wear it all the time :) Good finds in February!
ReplyDeleteChristine In Color
If you're going to cheat, cheat well! So funny you have the bangle too!
ReplyDeleteThank you! That's one of the non-neutral colors in my closet, so I try and work it in whenever I see a good deal on an item.
ReplyDeleteDon't fret, it took me a LONG time to actually get to this point. And I think a lot of it has to do with I am in a solid, known state of my life. When I was transitioning between careers, moving across the country, starting to work from home, I honestly had no idea what I wanted. I suspect you're having trouble since you're in a big transition. You'll figure it out!
ReplyDeleteThe sales are the way to go! I toyed with the idea of doing a bulk amount at the beginning of the year like you, but instead I'm giving myself a set amount each month and either carrying over or deducting on the next month's balance. This month, I get to carry over $50! I think it will be fun to play the "how much can you carry over" game.
ReplyDeleteHah, thank you! And thanks for stopping by...I love your blog!
ReplyDeleteElephants are my favorite, I had to get it!
ReplyDeleteThey are so so comfy for walking around the city. I highly recommend them! In fact, wore them 5 hours to a museum and then through the park today.
ReplyDeleteYay! I'm glad you like it. Thanks for encouraging me to bring it back.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kelly! I've worn it non-stop since the day it arrived.
ReplyDeleteSwooning over that beautiful belt and bangle! I have been on a serious budget since last year and I have failed miserably! Although I have recently discovered ebay (living under a rock I tell you) so I am hoping it will save me money in the long run!
ReplyDeletehttp://my-wishfulthinking.blogspot.co.uk/
Yay for being underbudget! I LOVE that J.Crew purse...such a versatile piece :)
ReplyDeleteAnnie
The Other Side of Gray
Wow, lots of fun pieces here, especially in the shoe department! And, adore those cozy knits. Great finds.
ReplyDeletealyson
www.theaveragegirlsguide.com
great purchases!!! I love them all... those DV boots look so much like the Rag & Bone ones... great find! Also - LOVE THE NEW REDESIGN! lookin' good!
ReplyDeleteI want that bag! And those sandals!
ReplyDeleteGreat buys, I love that elephant pin!
ReplyDeleteKristina
Kristina does the Internets
You found some great items! I love my Edie purse and I'm sure you'll get a lot of use out of yours.
ReplyDeleteI actually ended up returning mine! I don't know...something about it just wasn't working for me. It could be because I'm short, it hit me in a weird place - right on the biggest part of my hip. I loved it on others but ended up swapping it out for two great tops that I've already worn.
ReplyDeleteI love those flats! I have read couple of similar posts and I really like the idea, so I decided to start documenting my purchases as well, thank you for the inspiration :)
ReplyDeleteAwesome - so glad you're interested in doing it! It's really held me accountable. Make sure to link up your post with the others on Franish - one of my favorite parts is seeing how others navigate the holidays, super sale times, etc. http://franish.blogspot.com/p/budgetting-bloggers.html
ReplyDelete