Tuesday, February 18, 2020

I used to record my clothing purchases and did so for maybe three years.  It was super enlightening and I think it made me a better shopper.  I would look at my purchases and think – wow I could have used that monthly sum for a staple item instead.  I would cross out what got donated or sold at the end of the year.  I really recommend doing this if you love clothes like I do.  I learned so much! 

I am naturally a bargain hunter.  I would go immediately to the clearance rack without any thought to my color scheme, what I needed, what I already had – I was simply looking for that bargain!  

Now, I do still look on the clearance rank but I am much more careful.  Also, I have developed my seasonal color palette and I try to use those colors to have a cohesive wardrobe.  I am trying to learn that one full price item may be a better bargain in the long run than 5 sale items.  It is a hard lesson to learn!

Also, I am trying not to change my nature and who I am and what I feel comfortable in.  I like tops with black in them because I have lots of black pants.  I prefer neutral shoes in brown, black, and metallics.  These are what I wear the most.

I have not shopped much in 2020 so far.  I really think it is due to a few factors:  

-I have gotten to be a better shopper and was happy with many of my previous winter purchases.  

-My new closet allowed me to see what I had and I took the opportunity to purge and that makes me feel that I can see what I have even more.  Also, life is too short to be uncomfortable in your clothing.  Why have a closet full of 7s when you can have a half full closet of 10s. I hope that makes sense!  

How much have you shopped in 2020?  During the years I journaled my purchases I did see some patterns.  I have more time in the summer to shop so I do so more.  Plus, I love my sandals, flip flops, cover ups and they are fun to buy.  Two other months stood out for me – March and September.  I was always ready to update for the coming seasons.  

I hope you enjoy seeing what I have bought.  

$12 – poncho/sweater thing open on both sides from The Prickly Pear (local boutique owned by a friend)  

I think this will be a classic and I think this was a great purchase!  

$5.99 – Old Navy – I have not worn this yet but it matches many of my kimonos.  Heck, this was the price of a latte so even if it was not a good purchase I feel pretty good!

$5.99 – Old Navy – This is the same top and I have already worn this with a kimono.  Again, I think it is a good purchase!  

I bought this polka dot top at Steinmart for $20 something.  I lost my receipt.  I have worn this three times already and I am not sure how flattering it is but I wanted a polka dot badly.  This is a non-wrinkle polyester ish material. 

And, I bought these palazzo pants for $25 at the same time I bought the polka dot above at Steinmart.  I was drawn to the green for March and St. Patrick’s Day for some reason.  I am anxious to wear them but it has been too cold most days.  

I spent under $100 for almost two months!  I did not include any Christmas money purchases as I did those before 2019 ended.  I am very happy with this amount and I think I made good purchases.

Now, I will continue making my spring wish list based on my current spring clothing.  I feel that I am in a bit of a rut, though.  I am not super excited about ordering from unknown retailers sight unseen.  I much prefer online shopping when I can return to the local store.  Where should I look?  My go tos have been Old Navy(want to get away from ON), American Eagle, Loft, Target (very selectively), and TJ Maxx.  

Thanks for reading!

Amy