https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:24:16 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684474 Fri, 24 Jun 2016 02:01:00 +0000 Anonymous 1684474@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lol, DonnaF. I say "less to the dress" since wedding dresses only get worn once. Pay as little as possible to get something you love that's affordable. It.'a doable; just can take. a lot of shopping. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684454 Fri, 24 Jun 2016 01:39:19 +0000 DonnaF 1684454@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I own no designer or even high end stuff but don't really crave such items either.&nbsp; But I probably have more quantity, at least in the way of clothing and shoes, than I absolutely need.&nbsp; It is a huge deal to me if I buy something full price than at a discount.&nbsp; If I could be absolutely or at least 85% certain that an item would become a workhorse, then I would have no trouble spending more for it.&nbsp; I live in a mild climate so I never wear big ticket items like boots and coats.&nbsp; I have had more luck with cheapo footwear then more spendy (for me) footwear.&nbsp; Go figure.</p> <p>But post-YLF, I think I have mostly put away my sales goggles.&nbsp; Does that count?&nbsp; I put tons of stuff that appeals to me in my Nordstom Wish List.&nbsp; Then, I wait for it to get marked down.&nbsp; Meanwhile, I ponder whether I really want/need it and how it fits in with the rest of my wardrobe.&nbsp; And sometimes when it gets marked down, I pounce.&nbsp; And other times I don't.&nbsp; And mostly I return it because it isn't a 10.</p> <p>This means I don't go from store to store to shop the sales which can result in a lot of orphans, nor do I venture out with a particular list which can result in frustration.&nbsp; I live in a large metro area so lots of bricks'n'mortar stores are available, but I don't think I'd ever hit them unless DD were in town or if there were a YLF meetup.</p> <p>In the event that DD ever gets married and has a wedding, I WILL hit the stores and would be willing to pay full price for the right dress.&nbsp; Just not a designer one because I have NO dress up activities. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684436 Fri, 24 Jun 2016 01:12:41 +0000 Anonymous 1684436@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>There's another way of looking at this. I spend $ on clothing &amp; accessories because I like to look as good as possible. I am able to spend more $ on this because I cut back in other ways. I drive home for lunch every day and eat something like a salad, sandwich or whatever. My DH &amp; I eat out once a week. I cook from scratch the rest of the time. In contrast, some of my coworkers eat out a lot - breakfast &amp; lunch every weekday; possibly more. I know because they bring the food back to work to eat at their desks. They also attend a lot of football games, etc. while my DH &amp; I are home bodies. Yes, we take one or two really nice vacations per year, but the $ saved from not going places all the time helps us afford to do that. I'm not criticizing the way they eat &amp; live. I'm just saying that we all choose our priorities &amp; spend accordingly. Someone might look at me &amp; think I'm rich (people have actually done that), not knowing how my DH &amp; I budget our $. People make assumptions that are not always based on reality. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684349 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 21:09:42 +0000 rachylou 1684349@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So...I find it pretty hard right now to break thru the budget mindset. I did a walkabout last week, and I swear, from Ross to Nieman's, it was all the same swirly multi colour wrap dress. Maybe it was my attention blindness again, but I feel the field is flat. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684322 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 20:32:17 +0000 Suz 1684322@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>kerlyn,</b> not judgemental at all and I did not experience it that way! On the contrary, I think it is a mark of creativity to be able to do what you describe. &nbsp;I'm personally kind of allergic to "status" items (or those that call attention to themselves as such). I don't judge others for having them, but that kind of high end is definitely not a priority for me.&nbsp;</p> <p>Nor am I saying that everyone <b>should</b> break through the budget mindset. Not at all. It's a great way to shop and some of the most stylish people on the forum do it! &nbsp;:)</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1684316 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 20:22:29 +0000 kerlyn 1684316@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz, I hope my comment above didn't sound judgmental. &nbsp;I really think everyone should buy whatever they love and their budget allows. &nbsp;I have very few high end stores in my smallish town, so I simply haven't had the chance to fondle the lovely leather handbags or try on the designer jeans. &nbsp;It's probably a good thing for my wallet!</p> <p>I've found that I really enjoy trying to recreate some of my favorite looks both here on YLF and other blogs, but on my budget and with somewhat limited shopping options. &nbsp;It's a fun challenge. &nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683987 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 11:53:47 +0000 Lucy 1683987@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow, what an interesting threat Suz!&nbsp;<br />I have quite a good income, but we decided to do a few other things e.g. we have a place by the coast and we do go on other holidays reasonably regularly. So I have a reasonable clothes budget but not excessive.&nbsp;<br />I tend to invest in watches, spectacles, shoes and coats (not so much need for them since we moved though!). Some of these I will have for many years too. Also swimmers and make-up, I tend to go higher end.&nbsp;</p> <p>Most other things, I don't like to spend overly large amounts on. I love quite a few mid range brands such as Metalicus, but rarely buy it full price. Sometimes I will if I really love a piece, but most of the time, it's really just not "worth" it for me. I don't often buy really cheap clothes though,so I think it's all a balance.&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683855 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:20:01 +0000 Anna 1683855@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I had to learn that sometimes one good piece is worth a multitude of less expensive pieces. I tend to spend more on fall/winter clothing and less on warm weather pieces. I have a reall problem spending more than $200 for a pair of shoes(more for boots). I have, but I almost had to force myself. And all footwear has to be leather except for tennis shoes. I can't wear higher heels due to several foot surgeries but if I could I would then I would splurge. I have been buying from a lot of different stores lately, but I tend to stick to Ann Taylor, J Crew and BR for work wear. I think a lot of it is wear you live. I live in Michigan and I have always worked for tech companies. Even the women with the really high up positions wear the same. I can recognize the really high end stuff but I just don't hang in the circles that wear it. That said, I love a bargain but my rule is would I wear it even if I had to pay full price? If the answer is yes, I buy it. I just got an amazing pale blue work dress that was $149 For $25.43. It fits perfectly and I love it so I would have paid full price. Getting on sale is just a bonus. At this point in my life I am experimenting with my style and don't want to buy really expensive pieces until I "get it" I have many, many, many coats and that has become my signature. I tend to spend more on them. I also spend more on my haircuts, hair color, hair products and don't get me started on skin products. I have some crazy expensive serums and creams. And like Angie, I mix high and low end. As she has taught us, style isn't a price. Wow, this was a really fun, Interesting topic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683852 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:18:48 +0000 Greyscale 1683852@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I totally know what you mean!</p> <p>My WIWs are full of designer pieces but they almost all cost me less than if I bought the same item at full price from the Gap. I'm pretty happy with my current balance but it took a while to get here. </p> <p>In grad school (20s) I was on a very tight budget. I only shopped at thrift stores. I was still refining my style and I was happier with used, nicer brands than disposable new clothes. Nicer at the time just meant Banana Republic or such. </p> <p>As a postdoc, I was barely making more money, but I found higher end consignment things or deep discounts from nice stores. Around 2010 I got a lot more into fashion. When I showed up at YLF in 2013, I had started collecting much nicer things, but still always at a huge discount. </p> <p>For a while I shifted to buying too much, but I still don't buy many things full price. I think I've honed my closet to a nice mix now and I'm being a lot more cautious about what I accumulate from consignment stores. </p> <p>I'm not sure I'll ever let go of the hunt, waiting for something to drop in price before I'm willing to buy it. It's fun. But sometimes I realize I should identify what I need and what will be worth the money and just go for it! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683848 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:12:35 +0000 Carla 1683848@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa! The belt referred to is white - LOL! Real leather, and I think $10. A few us did the lemming thing... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683842 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:04:30 +0000 Anonymous 1683842@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My husband bought a belt at Canadian Tire while there to get some part or another for his car . He is quite pleased with himself . </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683840 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 04:01:28 +0000 Suz 1683840@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Lisa</b>, you're on. Except I am keeping my credit card on a leash, if that is okay. &nbsp;:)</p> <p><b>Sally</b>, that's a really great point about it going either way -- we can become like our environment or react against it.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683839 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:58:55 +0000 Suz 1683839@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Runs with Scissors</b>, I think shoes are a great place to splurge a little because they do get a lot of wear as a rule and happy feet are worth a lot!!&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Vix</b>, I had a similar reaction to <b>Carla's</b> confession -- which makes me think it does come down to priorities in the end, and maybe when one's priorities begin to shift (in any direction) there will be a bit of a learning curve.&nbsp;</p> <p>As for budget fashionistas, <b>Carla</b>, I think they are here and not here, if you know what I mean. Perhaps there are only a few here who shop exclusively at budget stores like K-mart. But I think there are a LOT of people who shop hi-low, in Angie's sense, so who have a pair of pants from Reitmans and a bag from Danier and a top from BR and maybe a relatively expensive coat. I'm in that group myself &nbsp;-- most of my stuff is mid-range, but much of it was bought on sale; I'll always have a few really inexpensive items (like those Canadian Tire belts -- yup!), and a few items are higher end -- not super expensive designer, but from a "better line" like Reiss or Elie Tahari.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683838 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:55:13 +0000 Anonymous 1683838@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz . I am flying to Toronto and taking you bag shopping . I'll be there for a week at the beginning of August . Meet me at Holts on Bloor and hand me your credit card </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683837 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:52:53 +0000 Sal 1683837@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting discussion here...I relate to what many of you have said.</p> <p>Our upbringing and childhood is such a strong influence - it can go both ways - I know adults who only buy the best because they feel they missed out as a child, and who love designer labels and expensive cars. &nbsp;Others stick with a frugal approach. &nbsp;My Mum and my MIL are both frugal as a result of their upbringing, yet their sisters are not....so some personality traits come to play.</p> <p>I am happy to experiment with low end at the thrift store- I don't mind making a mistake here. &nbsp;But I dislike making mistakes with new clothes - it seems so wasteful. &nbsp;And I don't trust my eye as well in a cheaper retailer - I see some of the gorgeous pieces Deborah gets at a low price - but I get put off entering the store, or if I do, I become overwhelmed and miss the gems.</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683836 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:52:07 +0000 JAileen 1683836@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Runs with Scissors, your comment made me laugh out loud! Thanks! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683835 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:50:00 +0000 Suz 1683835@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It takes a lot of crafty work to get those suits to cover the important bits! And they know they have us..I mean, if you need one, you need it, right?&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Kerlyn,</b> I think if you are happy with your closet that is the main thing!&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Shelly</b>, that is so wise and true -- having lots of money to spend on clothes does not equate to true style.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Windchime</b>, maybe we can start a "bag challenged" club. I keep thinking I will spring for a more expensive bag (not an "IT" bag, just a really nice bag) but I can't bring myself to do it! I did get a Le Pliage at NAS last year and definitely used it, but that is the closest I have come.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Brooklyn</b>, it's interesting that you find it hard to pay as much for clothes that fit your dominant season. I think a lot of people feel this way about summer clothing for some reason -- maybe because we do go through it a bit quicker due to perspiration, etc? I wonder.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683830 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:44:13 +0000 Runs With Scissors 1683830@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've enjoyed reading the many perspectives here, and I agree with lisap that we are likely influenced by our environment and the attitudes of those around us. &nbsp;</p> <p>For myself, I am not ready to focus on a few expensive, best-quality pieces. &nbsp; I did the frugal childhood thing, the college on $4K a year thing (including tuition!), and then the 10-years-of-grad-school thing, so I guess the novelty of being able to have a lot of stuff hasn't worn off yet. &nbsp;I think it will eventually. &nbsp;But for now, I'd rather by two or three middle-of-the road things (so I can have a variety of colors, usually! &nbsp;I love color!) than one fancy-pants thing. &nbsp;Which I would worry about ruining and never wear, probably.</p> <p>When I do spend more, it's on purses (rare purchases, typically used a long time) and shoes (where I most appreciate the craftsmanship that becomes available at a higher price point). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683825 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 03:38:28 +0000 Brooklyn 1683825@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>BC, ha ha, yes! I so agree about swimsuits! WHY are they so expensive? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683794 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 02:39:23 +0000 kerlyn 1683794@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Looking through my closet, there are no high-end items. &nbsp;Probably not even any moderate items! &nbsp;I'm a budget shopper through and through. &nbsp;I love to scour clearance rack and stack coupons on top of sales prices. &nbsp; I d on't think I've ever felt that I didn't deserve nicer things. &nbsp;I just truly enjoy the hunt and the challenge. &nbsp;And lately I've felt pretty content with my closet. &nbsp;What's funny is, I can't even think of any high-end item I crave. &nbsp;I've always been happy to find a cute affordable bag at Target or a pretty summer dress at Kohl's. &nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683783 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 02:19:15 +0000 Shelly 1683783@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So many thoughts and so much to say!</p> <p>I think we all have different priorities, budgets and different needs and wants. I also know that having lots of money to spend on clothes does not equate to being stylish at all. And I am happy to have the right thing to wear, to look well put together and feel good rather than spend a lot without the desired end result. </p> <p>I have a small budget and I do like nice clothes but I have been trying very hard to buy the best I can afford and that means shopping on sale.&nbsp; One of my local stores is having a 50% off the sale price and I found a pair of tailored cream jeans in my size. Just want I wanted and I will be able to wear them for years. I do buy clothes and my husband can't understand why someone needs so many shoes but you know, I don't drink much, I don't smoke or gamble. I do work hard and we live a simple life but I like to look as nice as I can and feel good about myself however much I spend on my clothes. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/3#post-1683738 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 01:09:33 +0000 Windchime 1683738@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>When I started reading YLF almost three years ago--and started setting aside MUCH more for clothing purchases--I was hyper focused on prices and what I was spending. That extreme awareness has (fortunately) relaxed a lot. In the past year, I've bought a few items that were around $150. For this former Goodwill shopper, that is quite a shift, and feels like high-end shopping. But I've given myself permission to buy what I like, as long as it's within my budget and I wear it. And I love feeling great in these more-expensive items. Which isn't to say I haven't also bought plenty of lower-end items in which I also feel great.</p> <p>I spent a silly amount of time last fall looking at (for me) more expensive handbags, with the intention of purchasing one I loved. I found a few I loved but couldn't bring myself to buy any of them...yet. Maybe in another year or so, when the rest of my wardrobe is in even better shape. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683728 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 01:00:45 +0000 Anonymous 1683728@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>What bothers me the most is the price of swimsuits. It's not like there's much fabric, lol. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683727 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:59:14 +0000 Vix 1683727@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ </p> <p>Those disconnects about where we go high and where we go low are kind of fun and what make us human. </p> <p>[May I also say that I've never met an extreme saver -- and I include my former self -- who didn't have at least one outlet for what I'd term excessive/unnecessary spending? I'm sure they're out there, but....]</p> <p><b></b><b>Runcarla --</b> <b></b>your bicycle comment made me laugh. When people say I should upgrade my crap but dependable car or hire a housecleaner I say I'd rather use the "for wants vs needs" money for travel, clothes, etc. And yes, go try on fancier stuff. For anyone who loves a bargain, there's something soooo satisfying about turning up one's nose at an expensive item. Though I hope you find a few things to temp you -- I have no doubt you'll get your cost per wear down. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683726 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:57:19 +0000 Brooklyn 1683726@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>An interesting discussion, and I identify with a lot of what has been said, especially Viva's comments. I definitely have a frugal mindset and, like others, that is partly about upbringing, first world guilt and retirement planning and also an awareness that I have a strong desire for variety. I also wanted to add that the budget mindset has a seasonal aspect for me too. For some reason spending a bit more on a jacket or boots (for winter) makes more sense to me from a value point of view than spending more on a flimsy summer top or dress (even if it is silk). It just seems like I am getting more actual product or craftsmanship (sorry, could not think of a gender neutral way to describe it) in the former items. In both cases I will seek out value for $ but in the former case my budget ceiling will be higher. But from a climate point of view, this does not make sense for me. I will get much more wear out of the summer item (assuming I choose well). I was very taken with Caro's comment in her post that for summer she needs items that are good enough to stand alone. I think I might need to adjust my mindset this summer (at least a little) and try to buy fewer but better. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683717 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:47:03 +0000 Anonymous 1683717@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My parents were frugal, as they both lived through The Great Depression and WW II, and were forced to save. The habits they developed stood them in good stead after retirement. Each of them had prolonged illnesses that went on for years and zapped their savings. My mom passed 2 years after my dad, and the $ didn't run out until 2 months before my mom's death. That's pretty good when you consider that my mom never worked, my dad had his roofing/insulation business + a few rental homes, and they had 6 children. They weren't rich by any means, but my dad made enough $ to prevent them from qualifying for Medicaid benefits such as Meals on Wheels. My dad never paid for health insurance, and just relied on Medicare. It's amazing they did as well as they did. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683715 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:38:24 +0000 Carla 1683715@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Though I've been in Fabland more than 2 years, I had no idea there were so many budget fashionistas! The ever stylish TransconaSharon and Ms Mary did post pieces from Sears, Winners, and Target - but except for the thrifters (who can ever forget ClearlyClair and her white Celine jacket!) finds seemed to be at higher price points than what I've been comfortable with. I always felt a little apologetic posting my Marks Work Warehouse jeans, Reitman's T's, Sears skirts, and Canadian Tire belts. :-D</p> <p>Maybe I wasn't looking close enough?</p> <p>I am over the 'I'm not worthy' c&amp;#*p -otherwise I would not be riding around on a bicycle that costs the same as a good used car. And Suz, I don't know why I can unclench my fists when it comes to gear, but not for clothes. I DO have vivid memories of my first sports purchases though! My parents (artistic and academic types) could NOT understand the $30 tag for new fangled runners my coach was bringing in, when regular $12 sneaks would do. With baby sitting money, and birthday money from the grandparents, I got a pair of these strange new Nike Waffle Trainers. </p> <p>Though I am at home in Lulu, Runner's World, Bushtaka and Duke's Bicycle Shop, my favourite running bras came from K'mart (I don't know what I'll do when they need to be replaced).</p> <p>I think I need to do what Vix did, and pay a visit to Holts and try some things on. LOL! I hire a decorator for advice, and a coach, personal trainer, and music teacher. Maybe I need a personal shopper? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683710 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:35:09 +0000 Suz 1683710@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Deborah</b>, I really like what you say in your last paragraph about evolution because that is just what I am hoping for many of us!&nbsp;</p> <p>I think some come to YLF with overstuffed wardrobes and too many things (I mean for their <b>own</b> comfort) or maybe even shopping addictions -- and YLF can help teach discernment and greater selectivity.&nbsp;</p> <p>And others come to YLF without really knowing their own taste and or having no skill at shopping or no history of buying things --- and YLF can help balance this issue also.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>BrieN</b>, that's a great reminder about buying what you want to wear out of the store! I do think it's a great litmus test for higher end spending however we define that.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>UF</b>, it's similar to the "full price tolerance" test, I guess. Good point.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Janet</b>, it makes sense you might scale back a bit now that your wardrobe is in such great shape, and also makes sense that you will spend on important gear to keep yourself active.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Bonnie</b>, glad if it helps! The comments are interesting.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Angie</b>-- &nbsp; Just for you, I think I'll do a little shopping! :)&nbsp;</p> <p><b>L'Abeille</b>, it sounds as if having workable clothing is a huge priority, so the price is really relevant in the sense that if it goes too high, you would feel too precious in the item and hence constrained.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Jenanded,</b> your post brought tears to my eyes. Yes, the memories of our loved ones include their physicality and what they wore, of course. Maybe buying and wearing lovely clothes can be considered a gift to my own daughter in a way -- letting her make picture memories.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683703 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:29:16 +0000 crazyone 1683703@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>a tip for those of you who are frustrated by prices dropping after you buy something: many Mastercards offers Price Protection, depending on the card it can either be up to 3 months or 6 months of price protection. &nbsp;It does take about 5-10 minutes of work online to find the original receipt, the ad/website with the new price, etc., but if it's a big price drop it's worth it. &nbsp;I've done it once--I purposely bought a dress from Madewell full price because I was worried my size would sell out. A month or so later it dropped in price substantially, so I applied for the price protection and got a check in the mail for the difference a few weeks later. &nbsp;I recently switched credit cards and was disappointed to find my Visa doesn't offer price protection. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/breaking-through-the-budget-mindset/page/2#post-1683696 Thu, 23 Jun 2016 00:21:30 +0000 Deborah 1683696@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I relate strongly to what Angie shared. </p> <p>&nbsp;When I first started working and earning money I had very little discernment (or common sense lol) and I would buy very expensive clothing, bags etc. &nbsp;I was paying board to my parents and living at home and did not save any money!! &nbsp;But.. I had an awesome wardrobe. &nbsp; &nbsp;I got married in my late 20's to a man who is very good at managing our finances and of course I (we) then had other and additional financial commitments which changed the way I shopped. &nbsp; In my 20's and 30's I wanted a lot of variety. I was still exploring and finding my way and I did tend to purchase a lot of clothing and would seek out the best price so I probably bought most things on sale and wasn't as fussy about quality and fit. &nbsp; Then in my 40's I started to close in on what I feel is my 'core' style and things changed again. &nbsp;I started to appreciate quality and fit, I also no longer wanted multiple wardrobes full of clothing, I wanted less but wanted better. I seemed to have developed the necessary discernment to start making better choices on my purchases. &nbsp;YLF has actually helped greatly to get to this point btw. &nbsp;A few years back I bought my first expensive pair of shoes in quite a long time. &nbsp;I saved and stalked and bought them months after first finding them and got them at a good price but still expensive (for me and my budget). &nbsp;And I still love and still wear those shoes. &nbsp;For those who have had a baby, you often decide you want a child, you then do what's required to make that happen and then you plan, prepare etc for 9 months and then your beloved baby arrives. Now of course babies are so much more special than shoe... but .... I wanted the shoes, I planned and prepared (i.e. saved and sought the price I could pay) and then they arrived, and I love them and still wear them and still enjoy them... I invested in them. To be honest, the times when I have had money to 'throw around' I haven't made the best choices and haven't had the same connection with the items as with those I have had to wait for.</p> <p>I have never thought I wasn't worth spending on, for me it was and probably still is, about stretching the budget as far as it can go:) &nbsp;This year I have bough three items from Temt (a local teen store) for $19, $24 and $29 and the quality has been exceptional and I <b>feel </b>like I am wearing something special. &nbsp;But I also have bought a jacket and coat from Motto for $150 and $200 that make me feel the same. &nbsp;For my birthday (I often earmark higher end items for special occasions 'cough cough') my boys gave me a handbag I had been wanting for ages. &nbsp;But at $595.00 I couldn't justify it in our budget, but when it was reduced to $200 that was workable.<br />And I don't anticipate any further handbag purchases until maybe my next Birthday ;)</p> <p>I don't care if something has a label or not, because as has been mentioned, expensive does not mean quality, I want clothing that fits well, flatters and feels beautiful to wear and that comes at many different price points. &nbsp;I appreciate that we have all been brought up with certain attitudes towards spending, and spending on ourselves, but for me it's most strongly about what works for my budget. I also have a personal guideline of not spending a lot of money on trend items because they don't have longevity in my closet (they are often one season wonders) but I will spend on more 'classic for me' items that I wear for years.</p> <p>Suz hope I haven't gone off on too much of a tangent. &nbsp;I think it comes down to personal priorities and budget management. &nbsp;For each of us it's different and like our actual style journey our spending habits can evolve too. &nbsp; </p>