This year I promised myself that I would get it together again – financially, organizationally, being healthier, the works. Back when I first graduated college I had big ideas about where I would be by the time I was 30 (not quite there yet, but getting closer everyday). I never would’ve imagined where life would’ve taken me in the last 7 years and all of the surprises that popped up along the way!
Anyone who has ever moved knows that it’s expensive. Once I moved to New York and finally settled in I started re-assessing my shopping habits and dining habits. I’m really excited about an upcoming post on some of my favorite tips and tricks, but until then some thoughts on finding a way to balance style and your bank account.
The word that everyone hates but needs to hear: budget. After the holidays were over it was time to tighten up the ship again and focus on things that were worth spending money on – for me this year it’s experiences and travel. I have things that I’m willing to splurge on, but my everyday clothes aren’t usually where I lay that egg. That being said I like variety and have never been one to only wear the same things over and over again – I need to be able to change it up a little bit!
I’ve become a silent Old Navy super-fan over the past year. They knock it out of the park with everyday pieces like this jacket and t-shirt and their activewear line is fabulous and actually holds up very well. These days you can spend anywhere from $15-150 on a striped t-shirt. I spend too much money as it stands on overpriced salads and making sure I never have to cook any meals, so I have to veer towards the lower end of that spectrum.
I aim to spend more conservatively with anything that falls under one of the following categories:
- Anything more “trendy” – where you might be able to find the same version at Barney’s or Neiman’s from a well known label but you could also pick up at ASOS or Old Navy
- Casual basics – but allow yourself at least one nice t-shirt that’s extra soft!
- Workout clothes – because they’re going to end up getting terrorized by laundry machines eventually
Things worth spending the extra money on time and time again:
- Shoes – they support your whole body.. they should be comfortable!
- Handbags – you can make a great handbag last for 4+ years making it’s per wear cost extremely low
- Coats – although you may turn over a few trendy coats each season, having some nice staples will save you money over time because the coats will be much more durable and warm in those winter months
What do you save and splurge on?
SHOP THE POST
TOP: Old Navy striped boat neck tee •  JEANS: Rag & Bone bedford skinny jeans  •  JACKET: Old Navy canvas field jacket  •  SHOES: M.Gemi flats •  BAG: Henri Bendel bedford drawstring c/o  •  SUNGLASSES: Classic Specs (Waverly) c/o •  EARRINGS: Bauble Bar versailles ear jackets  WATCH: Cluse watch c/o
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