March Budget

In my January and February Budget post, I mentioned that I was feeling unenthused by much of the clothing featured in my favorite stores lately.  I felt uninspired at the time, but spending so little money in January and February allowed me to splurge a little bit this month!

Here is what I purchased!

Boden Bonnie Studded Flat: Paid $110.40 (Originally $138)
I'm a constant admirer of Boden pieces but, on a teacher's budget, they are usually outside of my price range.  I loved these striped flats from the moment I saw them in the catalog, so when I didn't spend much of my budget during the first two months of the quarter, I was excited to treat myself!  Due to snow, salt and now rain, I haven't gotten to wear them yet but I can't wait!

Gap Utility Jacket: Paid $32 (Originally $88)
At the beginning of the month, a casual fleece and a rain coat comprised my spring jacket collection.  I wanted more of a cute, everyday outerwear look.  This utility jacket in a lovely, feminine hue fit the bill!  I was able to snag it on sale plus I used some Gap Card rewards to really get the cost down.

Gorjana Mae Shimmer Ring: Paid $24 (Originally $43)
I received this ring in one of my Rocks Box sets.  It is the perfect compliment to some other delicate, stackable rings I own so I decided to keep it!  If you are interested in trying Rocks Box (I love it and have been using the service for almost two years), use my code, whitneybff3,  to receive your first month free (and I get some credits, too)!

Total Spent: $247
Total Saved: $186
Total Remaining: $3

I'm really proud of my budgeting and purchases this quarter!  I was very intentional about what I bought and I truly love each of my new pieces.

I will aim to be as careful about my spending for this upcoming quarter.  Some of the items on my wish list are a pretty spring dress (more on that coming soon), a warm-weather chambray dress and items to wear during my birthday vacation to Disney World!

As usual, linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

January and February Budget

It's been ages since I've done a budget post!  I have to admit that this is because, towards the end of 2015, I wasn't doing a very good job of sticking to my clothing budget.  I'm happy to report that I'm now back on track!

I'm actually finding it super easy to stay within my $250 quarterly budget at the moment.  I'm feeling completely uninspired by the clothing that's out there right now!  I actually wouldn't mind purchasing a little something for myself but I just can't find anything that's worth spending my money on.  Where have you been finding cute clothes lately?  I need some inspiration!

The first quarter of my budget runs from January-March and here's what I've purchased so far:

LOFT Striped Knit Turtleneck Tunic: Paid $18 (Originally $49.50)

This has made for a cute, comfy and easy layering piece this winter (already worn here)!  It's still available and is on sale!

Loft Cable Sweater: Paid $25 (Originally $59.50)

I've worn this sweater twice for Create28: Winter Looks (here and here) and I don't plan to stop anytime soon!  It's also available (in lots of colors) and is currently on sale.

Gap 1969 Icon Worker Plaid Standard Fit Shirt:  Paid $38 (Originally $55)

Yes, I purchased a men's shirt this month.  I was on the hunt for a classic, plaid shirt for our Winterfest Spirit Week and because I didn't actually own one that fit well and that I liked.  I wasn't loving any of the women's options but really liked the colors and classic fit of this shirt!

Total Spent: $81

Total Saved: $83

Total Remaining: $169

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

May Budget

Wow!  As of this post, I have been sharing my clothing purchases and budgets with you for a year!  While I'm still not a perfect budgeter (see below), I have definitely learned to be more intentional about my spending and I don't binge shop like I used to.

I seem to have been drawn towards neutrals this month with the exception of a very bright dress (which made for the perfect birthday ensemble).  I added the black counterpart to this dress to my closet because I loved the polka dot version so well.  I stepped outside my comfort zone by purchasing my very first romper.  It is so comfortable that I'm never turning back!  And finally, these elastic-waisted, printed shorts are perfect for staying cool during the summer months!

1.  Milly Dress: Original Price- $68  Price Spent- $52.20

2.  Old Navy Jersey Fit and Flare Dress: Original Price- $24.95  Price Spent- $24.94

3.  H&M Romper: Original Price- $17.95  Price Spent- $17.95

4.  Old Navy Shorts: Original Price- $24.95  Price Spent- $24

Total Remaining from First Quarter- $20.08

Total Spent May- $119.10

Total Spent this Quarter- $259.05

Total Saved this Quarter- $79.55

Total Remaining- -$9.05

So I went about ten dollars over my quarterly budget.  No big deal, right?  Well, I also splurged and bought a few things for my birthday (that I will feature in a different post).  Birthday coupons were my budget downfall last year as well.  What I'm learning is that perhaps I should set a few extra dollars aside every May to treat myself.  What do you think?

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

April Budget

It feels like it's been ages since my last budget update.  I didn't write such a post in March because I didn't buy a single thing all month!  I decided to end the first quarter of my 2015 budget with a surplus so that I could buy something special in April...a great pair of classic, white Converse sneakers (which you've already seen here and here and here).  These shoes are already getting so much love and I can't wait to wear them into the summer months.  I definitely feel like this was a smart and fun purchase!

The mint cardigan was a closet staple that I wanted to add to my wardrobe.  In order to hit Old Navy's $50 minimum for free shipping, I added the dress and blouse to my cart.  It turns out that both are super cute, especially the dress!  I love this little number so much that I ordered the same one in black (and am trying to refrain from ordering it in guava...I need an intervention).

The necklace that I received in my most recent Rocks Box and the fun, heart-shaped sunnies round-out my first purchases of the spring.  I can't wait for the temperatures to start rising so I can continue to wear these pieces!

1.  Old Navy Jersey Fit & Flare Dress: Original Price- $29.95 Price Spent- $5

2.  Old Navy Floral Pop-Over: Original Price- $32.42 Price Spent- $24.94

3.  Old Navy 3/4 Sleeved V-Neck Cardigan: Original Price- $25.92 Price Spent- $19.94

4.  Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Sneaker: Original Price- $55 Price Spent- $ 47.65

5.  LOFT Metallic Heart Shaped Sunglasses: Original Price- $24.50 Price Spent- $24.50

6.  Ashiana London Diamond Charm Long Necklace: Original Price- $61 Price Spent- $38

Total Remaining from First Quarter- $20.08

Total Spent April- $160.03

Total Spent this Quarter- $139.95

Total Saved this Quarter- $63.75

Total Remaining- $110.05

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

February Budget

Wow!  It has been a few months since my last budget post!  I mentioned in October that I had already blown my final quarterly budget for the year.  That paired with all of the Christmas shopping I needed to do meant that I wasn't spending money on myself towards the end of 2014.  As the new year rolled around, I found myself feeling content with what I have and content with life in general so I didn't buy a single piece of clothing during the month of January!

Now that February is coming to a close, however, I have added some fun new additions to my wardrobe!

1.  Anthropologie Pinnacle Textured Dress: Original Price- $158 Price Spent- $52.95

2.  Capelli New York Printed Triangle Cork Pouch: Original Price- $24.50 Price Spent- $24.50

3.  River Island Pansy Print Swing Dress: Original Price- $64.20 Price Spent- $33.02

4.  ASOS Swing Dress in Spot: Original Price- $65 Price Spent- $33.02 

5.  Wanderlust + Co Loop Crystal Gold Ring: Original Price- $34 Price Spent- $27

6.  Glamorous Jersey Drop Hem Dress: Original Price- $40.34 Price Spent- $23.85    

7.  Shiraleah Clutch: Original Price- $73 Price Spent- $36.50 

Total Spent February- $229.92Total Spent this Quarter- $229.92 (Total Saved $258.33)Total Remaining- $20.08

ASOS hosted a fabulous sale this month so I was able to get the pansy print dress, the swing dress and the drop-hem dress for a really great deal!  I feel like these three dresses along with the little Anthro number (purchased especially for my Valentine's Day date) have given me some fun and fresh pieces with which to work.  I'm already having fun styling them in multiple ways!  Add the sparkly ring and some new clutches, and I'm feeling pretty excited about my wardrobe these days!

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers

October Budget

Whoa!  How did it get to be November 16th already?!  I have to admit, I'm ready for the holiday season.  Bring-on the Thanksgiving feast, Christmas carols and time spent with loved ones.  I can't wait!  But before we get there, I still have to tell you about my October budget purchases!

I have to admit to having already blown my quarterly budget and we haven't even made it to December yet.  It doesn't feel good to tell you this, but I want to be transparent about what I have to work with in my wardrobe.  I mentioned a couple of posts ago that I have taken on some extra responsibilities at work lately.  The extra work also comes with some extra money.  With my first larger paycheck, I allowed myself a little splurge.  After this, though, I'm using the extra money for responsible tasks like saving.  You know you are a grown-up when you are more excited about saving than spending.  Hello, adulthood!

On to my October purchases:

1.  Cognac Purse: Original Price- $49.99 Price Spent- $37.09

I have been in the market for a "use for everything" cognac bag for several months now and found the perfect one at the Nine West Outlet.  You can see the purse in this post.

2.  Skinny Cognac Belt: Price Spent- $15.85

I went to Anthropologie to return a dress and "accidentally" found myself in the sale section.  I don't feel too terribly, though, because I got this belt for a great price!

3.  Wide Belt: Original Price- $58.00 Price Spent- $29.95

I purchased this belt during the same Anthropologie trip to replace my beloved wide cognac belt that finally fell completely apart.  While I will miss my trusty friend, I'm excited about the quality of this new belt!

4.  Pink Cardigan: Original Price- $26.94 Price Spent- $17.59

I saw this cardigan on Danielle and immediately fell in love with the blush pink color.  If I had a signature color, this would be it!

5.  Striped Tee: Original Price- $19.94 Price Spent- $13.39

See my above comment about blush pink.

6.  Buffalo Plaid Shirt: Original Price- $54.95 Price Spent- $32.97

I have been loving buffalo plaid shirts on other bloggers lately so I decided to try one for myself.  I really liked the muted tones of this one.  I think it will make for pretty winter layering.

7.  Black Wedge Booties: Original Price- $104.15 Price Spent- $74.15

This exact pair of booties is what I've had in mind to purchase all fall.  I looked around and couldn't find a pair that fit the image in my head any better.  This is a bit more than I would prefer to spend on a pair of shoes but I'm hoping that the quality makes them a smart purchase.

Total Spent October- $220.99

Total Spent this Quarter- $220.99 (Total Saved $108.84)

Total Remaining- $29

As you can see, I bought several wardrobe basics.  It feels like I spent a lot of money this month but I think I will get a lot of wear out of these staples.  Tune back in at the end of this month to see how I overspent my budget.  Haha.

As usual, linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers.

September Budget

Do you breathe just a little bit easier on Saturday mornings?  I know I do!  I had a super busy week that involved Back to School Night on Monday, interim grades due on Thursday and the Homecoming football game last night.  That just means that on this relaxing Saturday morning, my leisurely cup of coffee tastes a little bit sweeter!

My September Budget post is relatively short and simple.  I am on a quarterly budget system and September is the last month of this quarter.  I had only $34 to spend this month and I'm please with how I spent it.  I think I'm finally getting used to a clothing budget because I didn't struggle as much with wanting all the things despite having very little money left to spend.

1.  Banana Republic Quilted Whisper Tee: Original Price- $45 Price Spent-$23
I just couldn't wait for the weather to cool off so that I could wear this top (obviously since I already wore it here).  I couldn't pass-up on the quilted shoulder detail and the rich fall hue.
2.  Banana Republic Faux-Leather Trim Striped Top: Original Price- $49.50 Price Spent-$18
I liked the little pops of leather trend from last fall but didn't purchase anything at the time.  That's why I was excited to see that leather is back in this year...and I decided that I had to participate!  I like that just the shoulder patches are leather.  I'm not ready for full on rocker chic yet!
3.  Copy Cat Zara Blanket Scarf (Cotton On): Original Price- $16.95 Price Spent-$11
If you read a single style blog last fall/winter, you know about the Zara blanket scarf.  I wanted one so badly but the coveted scarves were sold-out by the time I got around to purchasing one.  When Alex posted on Instagram that she had found a copy cat version, I knew I wanted to buy it.  I don't even care if it is last year's trend.  I can't wait to wear it!

Alright, so I know that I only had $34 remaining in my budget and I spent $52.  However, from my Banana Republic, I received a $20 off my next purchase coupon so I'm calling it even!

Total Spent August- $32
Total Spent this Quarter- $247.00 (Total Saved $530)
Total Remaining- $3

As always, linking-up as one of Fran's Budgeting Bloggers

August Budget

While chronicling my purchases in July, I posed a question to you and in return, received lots of great advice!  I was debating whether or not to include pajamas, exercise clothes and underwear in my $250 quarterly budget.  After reading your advice and thinking a little bit more about my spending habits, I've come to a conclusion.  I'm going to have a separate, yearly budget of $200 for these necessities.  I ultimately decided not to include these things in my clothing budget because I could foresee myself avoiding underwear purchases because I would rather have a new dress...and sometimes you really should by new underwear.  But, since money is tight around here, I thought that I should have a budget of some sort.  I actually doubt that I will spend the full $200 each year but I wanted the amount to cover the ever-expensive bra purchases when necessary.

I've also made another decision regarding my budget.  I've decided not to include my Rocks Box subscription fee in my budget.  I thought a lot about canceling this service but I really really enjoy these little, sparkly deliveries.  But taking $60 out of my quarterly $250 was feeling like a huge deduction.  Since my subscription is a fixed amount and not something I need to be careful about controlling, I'm accounting for it in my general budget as opposed to my clothing budget.  If I decide to purchase any of my Rocks Box goods, however, I will deduct that amount from my clothes budget.

Now on to my August purchases!  My mom and I have developed a fun tradition of shopping together at an outlet mall every August for a few back-to-school purchases.  This was our fifth year running!  Since I knew in advance that we would be shopping, I expected to spend almost the rest of my budget this month.  However, by taking advantage of sales, using Gap Card rewards, and with a couple of gifts from my mom, I was able to stretch my budget pretty far.

1.  Banana Republic Outlet Maxi Dress: Original Price- $89.99 Amount Spent- $21.56
I've said it once and I'll say it again: this dress is amazing!
2.  Banana Republic Outlet Maxi Dress: Original Price- $89.99 Amount Spent- $21.55
This dress is so great in fact that I bought it in two different prints.
3.  Banana Republic Outlet Beaded Shell: Original Price- $69.99 Amount Spent- $16.76
I love the beaded details in this top and the colors will make it really remixable.
4.  Banana Republic Outlet Lace Tank: Original Price- $49.99 Amount Spent- $11.97
Lace is a great way to add texture while keeping with a solid color.  Orange will be great for fall!
5.  Banana Republic Outlet Skirt: Original Price- $59.99 Amount Spent- $20.11
Not pictured.  I couldn't find this one online but I'm sure you will be seeing it on the blog pretty soon!
6.  LOFT Outlet Dress: Original Price- $49.99 Amount Spent- $0
Not pictured.  Again, I couldn't find this dress online but you've already seen it on my last post.
7.  LOFT Outlet Statement Necklace: Original Price- $34.99 Amount Spent- $0
Not pictured.  You gotta love statement necklaces!  What until you see this fall-hued sparkler!

Total Spent August- $97
Total Spent this Quarter- $215.79 (Total Saved $471)
Total Remaining- $34.21

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

July Budget

I know I'm not the first to say it, but can you believe that July is almost over!?!  On the one hand, I'm already looking forward to fall weather and clothing (layering is more fun that not layering, am I right?).  But on the other hand, I'm NOT ready for school to start again and I want my time in Michigan (by the way, I'm in the mitten state) to feel as long as possible!  I love it here!

I'm really proud of what I've done with my budget and shopping this month!  I made a couple of shopping goals for myself at the beginning of this quarter and have already started to work towards them.  Also, the fun little items that I've purchased have all been great deals.  So without further ado, here is what I purchased this month:

1.  Old Navy Denim Vest: Original Price- $32.94, Amount Spent- $0 (with Gap Rewards Dollars)
One of the items on my shopping list this quarter was the perfect denim vest, and it was the first item that I purchased!  I'm so glad that I found it because I have been wearing it constantly!  It is just the perfect way to change-up an outfit when it's too hot for other layering pieces.

2.  Target Cognac Flats: Original Price- $34.99, Amount Spent- $26.41
You know how it can be so hard to spend money on the basics?  Like, who wants to spend money on brown flats when you could buy a pretty dress?  That is how I've been feeling for quite some time now but I'm glad that I've finally purchased a pair of basic cognac flats.  I think I will be getting a lot of use out of them!

3.  Target Cognac Sandals:  Original Price- $19.99, Amount Spent- $7.52
When I purchased the above-mentioned flats, Target had a BOGO half-off promotion...so how could I resist updating my sandal collection with this sparkly little pair?!

4.  American Eagle Jeans (not pictured): Original Price- $44.95, Amount Spent- $29.64
You guys, I finally found jeans that I love!  I remembered that I had a few pair of AE jeans that I liked in college and a few of you recommended them when I expressed my pants struggle a few posts ago.  So this weekend I found myself at my local AE where I had the most pleasant shopping experience.  The jeans were so well organized and the staff was super friendly and helpful.  After trying-on multiple sizes of all the different cuts, I fell in love with the High-Rise Jeggings!  They are so comfortable, flattering, and I don't feel like my bum is going to hang-out when I bend over.  SCORE!  And for this price tag, I'm already planning to purchase these pants in other washes!

5.  Madewell Top: Original Price- $49.50, Amount Spent- $18.91
This is the first purchase from Madewell.  After seeing lots of hype about this brand on blogs, my friend and I decided that we had to see for ourselves what it's all about.  We traveled an hour and a half just to stop at this store...and we weren't disappointed!  The quality of the clothing is impeccable and the girls working there were wonderful!  Unfortunately, most items are too expensive for my budget...but with 40% off of the sale price, I couldn't resist this top!  You know how I feel about French-themed clothing!

6.  Eddie Bauer Striped Top: Original Price- $29.99, Amount Spent- $23.84
Best friend shopping trip + adorable striped hoodie = matching tops for two!  How could I resist?  Although my top is purple and white striped and hers is navy and white.

7.  TJ Maxx Striped Work-Out Tank (not pictured): Amount Spent- $11
Speaking of matching tops, when Danielle and I got together a few weeks ago we had to do some shopping.  After visiting so many wonderful stores, the only things we purchased were matching, striped work-out tank tops.  At least we are sweating in style!

8.  LouLou Clutch (not pictured): Amount Spent- $12
Along with purchasing a denim vest and pants, one of my goals for this quarter is to revamp my handbag collection.  I'm already on my way with the purchase of a cute little chevron clutch!  I'm sure you will see it on the blog soon!

9.  Rocks Box Subscription- Amount Spent- $19
I'm on the fence about keeping my Rocks Box subscription.  While I love the service, paying $20 a month ends-up taking $60 out of my $250 quarterly budget...which just seems like a lot.  What would you do?  Keep it or ditch it?

Total Spent- $148.32 (Total Saved- 94.04)
Remaing Budget Through September- $101.68

All in all, I think I spent my money well this month!  I was intentional in what I purchased and I'm excited to wear my new pieces!

In conclusion, I have another budgeting question to ask you.  Would you deduct work-out clothes, underwear and pajamas from your budget?  Or do these purchases not count towards a wardrobe budget?  I haven't decided my stance on this question yet so I'm curious as to what you think!

Linking-up with Fran's Budgeting Bloggers!

June Budget

Before I launch into the list of what I purchased this month, I want to sincerely thank you for your kind comments and the positive feelings you sent my way after this post.  From time to time I feel rather silly taking pictures of my outfits and posting them on the internet, but this blogging journey has become so much more than a page full of selfies because of the friendships I've formed with you.  Who knew when I started my blog almost a year ago that I would find such a warm and supportive community of beautiful women...inside and out!?  I am humbled by your support and am so thankful for your friendships.

Alright, before I tear-up (much more than I already have), let's move on to my June budget.  I really shouldn't even call this a "budget" post.  A "birthday money" post would be a more accurate title.  As you may recall from my May budget post, I was unsuccessful in taking my first quarterly budget and spreading it across three months.  I had already spent all of my money and still had the month of June to go!  Fortunately, my birthday at the end of May brought a healthy amount of birthday money with which to make fun purchases!  All birthday excitement aside, however, I do realize that I have utterly failed at my first attempt at a quarterly clothing budget.  The good news is that tomorrow begins a new quarter and I have hopefully learned from my mistakes!

Here are a few of my favorite purchases that I made with birthday money.  I used this unexpected income to experiment with some new-to-me retailers and I was pleasantly surprised with the goods!

The coral and white striped maxi dress, black pleated skirt, sling-back flats and retro-inspired swimsuit are from Land's End.  Now I'm pretty sure I owned some LE winter boots (or some such thing) when I was little, but this was my first purchase as a style-conscious adult.  I found that the Land's End selection is full of a great mix of on-trend items as well as basic pieces!

My second experiment was with ASOS.  I have a few friends (in real life and in the blogiverse) who wear clothes from ASOS and I've always admired their pieces.  I finally bit the bullet and tried a few of the dresses myself...and I am in love.  I found the swing dress and the skater dress styles to be extremely comfortable and flattering.  And could the paisley and floral patterns in these dresses be any prettier?!

And lastly, I have been itching to order something beautiful and feminine from Ruche for quite some time now.  I've also been eyeing the breezy floral kimono trend of late.  Purchasing the number in the center of the top row satisfied my Ruche and kimono desires!

P.S.  The perfect-for-summer cognac wedges are from DSW, a store to which I am (obviously) not a newcomer.

I'm linking-up with Fran and the Budgeting Bloggers!

May Budget

Happy Friday, lovelies!  I'm back with round two of my monthly budget posts.  I splurged a little bit this month but with good reason: my birthday was on Wednesday!  Now you know, with birthdays come lots of lovely little birthday coupons...and it would be a shame to let them go to waste.

Each year I am most excited for my 15% off birthday coupon to Anthropologie.  With its feminine and unique pieces, Anthro is one of my favorite stores...but it is usually out of my price range.  That being said, each May I allow myself to splurge on a couple of Anthropologie items with my birthday coupon.  Cue this adorable little peplum and the cute scalloped shorts!  I have to say that what I ended-up buying at Anthro is not at all what I expected to choose.  I am not a frequent shorts wearer (I sometimes struggle with my body image, especially when it comes to my legs) but I just couldn't pass-up on high-waisted shorts with scallops...I mean, come on, scallops!  I'm really excited to wear them with my new peplum and to pair them with other tops all summer long.  I also think they will look cute with tights and boots this fall!

While I splurged on the two Anthropologie items, I super-saved on the other things!  I've already mentioned the deal I got on the top pair of Target shoes...and I purchased the other pair for only $6!  I think it's okay to indulge in a couple pairs of shoes when they cost $11 total, right?  Also, I had been looking for a pair of replacement sunglasses for my faves that broke last summer when I happened upon this clearance pair at LOFT!

Not pictured are a graphic tee that I purchased at an art festival featuring my favorite state, Michigan, as well as the items that I rented through Rocks Box that I will be reviewing on the blog shortly.  Also, my parents gifted me with another graphic tee from a wonderful new East Lansing restaurant called Hop Cat and a beautiful ring made with an antique button from Paris (I'm sure you will see pictures of it soon).

Now it's time to talk moola:

Peplum Top: Anthropologie- $61
Shorts: Anthropologie- $70
Espadrille Shoes: Target- $6
Patterned Shoes: Target- $5
Sunglasses (plus case): LOFT- $13
Michigan Tee: EL Art Festival- $24
Rocks Box Subscription- $10
Hop Cat Tee: $0
Paris Button Ring: EL Art Festival- $0

April Total: $68
May Total: $189

Total Remaining for April-June: -$7

Now you may have noticed that I already messed-up my first ever quarterly budget.  I'm feeling a bit guilty, but at the same time, this was my first try and I'm still learning a lot about my spending habits.  I can't imagine how much I would have spent if I didn't have this budget in mind!

I also have one more month left for this quarter and am already in the hole by $7.  Fortunately, for my birthday, my friends and family gave me some fun new accessories and my parents gave me a generous amount of money to be spent on a few fun things.  I won't be counting those purchases towards my budget since they were gifts (is that cheating?  I'm going to go ahead and say "no").  Since I won't have any budget purchases next month, I will feature those things in my June budget round-up.

Linking-up with Fran and a few other budgeting bloggers!

By the way, don't forget that today is the last day to enter the giveaway for a $250 gift card to LOFT!  Click the button below for a chance to win!

April Budget

For a few months now, I have been grappling with a couple of issues when it comes to shopping and writing a personal style blog:

First of all, there's no doubt about it, I love to shop!  However, I am a teacher and am therefore working with a relatively small budget.  In order to not spend too much money, I tried a few tactics that actually made my shopping habits less healthy.  I would attempt spending freezes where I spent absolutely no money on clothing for a specific period of time.  However this led to binge shopping when the freeze was over.  I don't feel good about this.  And ultimately I don't feel good about constantly wanting more and more clothing when I truly am happy with all of the clothes in my closet.  I know that there are healthy ways out there to enjoy shopping for new pieces while not going overboard with the spending.

Also, I know that I sometimes feel jealous and frustrated when I read blogs and I see these lovely ladies constantly wearing new Tory Burch boots or carrying the latest Kate Spade bag.  I just wish I knew how they could afford these luxurious items!  For this reason, I want to be completely authentic and transparent when it comes to my purchases.

So, I've decided to develop a clothing budget (duh, right?) and I've decided to tell you about it once a month to hold myself accountable.

I looked to the blog J's Everyday Fashion for guidance as to how to set a clothing budget.  J's suggestion is to spend 2%-8% of your income on clothing.  Since I'm on a tight budget when it comes to living expenses, I shot for a budget of approximately 2% of my annual salary.  This means that I have $1,000 to spend on clothing each year.  Now, $1,000 felt like an overwhelming amount to keep track of so I decided to track my spending quarterly.  That means for each three month period, I can spend $250.  Although I do plan to rollover money to the next quarter if I don't spend it all.

Alright, now that I've explained to you my reasoning and budget, let's get down to what I purchased this month!

Blouse: c/o Stitch Fix- $68
Shorts: Old Navy- originally $26.94 but with Gap Card points, $0
Denim Jacket: Old Navy- originally $34.94 but with Gap Card points, $0

Total Spent in March = $68
Remaining Quarterly Budget = $182

The blouse is definitely on the expensive side and I'm not entirely comfortable with how much I spent on it.  However, as I explained here, I've told Stitch Fix to send me less expensive items from here on out so hopefully I won't be spending so much money on one piece in the future.  I had a bunch of Gap Card points saved-up so I decided to use them on some basics.  These shorts are super comfy while still looking nice and I can't wait to wear them when the D.C. temperatures become sweltering.   I mentioned before that I was looking for another denim jacket in a darker wash.  This jacket fit the bill and I've already worn it once!  I can tell that it will be a favorite piece to remix.  I also ordered a few pairs of pants but I'm not yet sure if I'm going to keep them.  If I do, I will include them in my May budget post.

Alright, thanks for letting me get my feelings about shopping and money off of my chest.  Stay tuned for how I continue to use my established clothing budget!

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