YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What if you really had to cut back?

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: What if you really had to cut back? https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 24 Apr 2026 03:35:43 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php shedev on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1261541 Mon, 26 May 2014 20:25:37 +0000 shedev 1261541@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Running shoes, winter boots, and a winter coat. Other than that, I have at least some current options in each category. Cerinda on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1261493 Mon, 26 May 2014 18:19:51 +0000 Cerinda 1261493@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh, brilliant teaser, Mo! Every season I would have to budget for ongoing jeans replacement, cash for the cobbler to keep my boots and walking shoes in shape, and one tee/top/tunic to keep my spirits up. This post has me thinking about how short/sharp a list I can make for my re-entry into the work world next spring. trix on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1261459 Mon, 26 May 2014 16:48:21 +0000 trix 1261459@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ A really interesting question and responses! To start with the main question, i.e., "If you're on a limited budget, what's a 'minimum' shopping list that would satisfy the desire to shop and have new things?"...Since I have a pretty full closet, I would get any needed shopping fix from replacing items and then getting a few items to refresh the wardrobe. These last few months, after a closet purge, this mostly meant getting pants in a more modern shape to replace some that had worn/stretched out, some very basic layering tops to go under jackets (to go along with a style shift), and updated shoes. This list of wardrobe refreshers would differ for everyone, of course. The funny thing is that, like Sterling and Laura, I think it's sometimes easier to go on a shopping "fast." After some extensive wardrobe updating a couple of years ago, I think I barely bought any clothes for a good year or more, perhaps excepting only undergarments, socks and a few accessories. Sometimes it seems that the act of browsing makes me want to buy more, whereas "out of sight, out of mind" really works; by replacing the mental space that clothes formerly consumed with other hobbies, I barely miss acquiring new clothes at all. (Admittedly this generally takes place after a shopping "binge," which makes the "fast" easier. I think I need to learn how not to get into binge/purge-fast cycles with my interests.) I'll also note that I think *not* getting a pricey but much-desired item causes me to shop more. I'd been coveting two expensive-for-me jackets this spring, but instead of buying them, I got some cheap ones that didn't quite work from eBay plus various on-sale substitutes in a mini-binge. Finally I caved and got the two jackets I really wanted, and wouldn't you believe it, I suddenly no longer wanted or needed the other ones (fortunately most were returnable or consignable). And in fact, after these purchases, I think I'm set to do another shopping "fast" through the end of the summer, possibly longer. Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260914 Sun, 25 May 2014 18:39:38 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1260914@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ In a way I suspect that completely stopping buying things, like Sterling is talking about, is somehow easier than just buying a very few things. You don't even bother looking if you're not buying anything, whereas if you're limiting money or items you're always debating with yourself whether the items you choose are the right ones. I think that's what I'm still trying to work out with my budget and SYB this year. It's like dieting - a restrictive diet 24/7 may not be fun, but it's straightforward, and the trouble always comes when you try to go back to a more regular situation. Anonymous on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260813 Sun, 25 May 2014 14:56:20 +0000 Anonymous 1260813@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ When my divorce was final, I found myself living on a substantially smaller income.  I cut back everything.  For two entire years, I didn't buy one single clothing item.  Nothing.  It is entirely doable.  I don't even remember feeling deprived at the time.   Mo on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260804 Sun, 25 May 2014 14:28:52 +0000 Mo 1260804@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm sure most of us could get by one calendar year not shopping and still look put together and reasonably current.  SHHHHH! is right!!  :) TraceyLiz65 on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260803 Sun, 25 May 2014 14:24:40 +0000 TraceyLiz65 1260803@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Lyn I had to laugh as I relate and my next instinct was "Shh don't tell DH!" lyn* on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260741 Sun, 25 May 2014 09:09:13 +0000 lyn* 1260741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'd be fine if I didn't buy anything - I don't like to admit that though Sal on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260734 Sun, 25 May 2014 08:14:21 +0000 Sal 1260734@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Interesting question. I think a starting point budget is a great idea if you could be facing an income drop.  That way you have something to work off. If you love clothes and sometimes have the "itch" to shop that will allow you to do so within those confines, and if you truly need to replace an expensive item (boots, warm coat) then you can do so one month and then have a month off purchasing. For me I like to sometimes take a small break from shopping entirely for a couple of months.  That way in the third month I can buy one or two pieces at once.  I am not a real planned shopper and find my best finds spring upon me, so I like to have the opportunity to seize those pieces when I can, and then hold off for a while. anne on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260699 Sun, 25 May 2014 06:18:34 +0000 anne 1260699@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Welcome to my life!!  My yearly amount is  around $75 that if you include birthday money, money from my personal spending money, vouchers and my actual budgeted amount  (around 43 a month). And because things have been much the same for some years the replacement issue is very real. I asked Angie once how many pieces per season you need to keep a wardrobe up to date. She said 6 or 7. Since this works out to 12 to 14 pieces a year I can't actually do it, as I need to also spend my budget on replacement needs - with the big figure being at least 2 new pairs of footwear a year, which are expensive , since one pair of orthotic shoes costs around $220. So I do work out my "wardrobe freshening" needs very carefully, and it does depend a bit on how the rest of my life is going.Like last year I started work full time, so refreshed my work wardrobe (though some items crossed to casual). I also put some extras into my lounge wear. This year I have bought some new gear. My summer casual wardrobe has been mostly neglected for several summers and will be a focus this summer (I literally hadn't bought a new tea for 2 years) I do always like to buy a casual, stand alone casual sweater for winter, and plan also this (Australian) winter to get a top. I guess these are fashion needs not real replacement needs This summer I plan to buy new flat sandals, a couple of tees, and maybe some more real hot weather stuff - some shorts and perhaps another dress. Most of these are wardrobe holes/ replacement but of course I will keep fashion in mind when I do. I guess what I am trying to say with the ramble is that for my replacement needs are integral to wardrobe planning.  To allow myself to buy things and keep up with fashion I deliberately only buy a few each year so I can replace them! Mo on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260587 Sun, 25 May 2014 02:55:27 +0000 Mo 1260587@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh, starting over from scratch would be quite the mental exercise for me.   I think the list I came up with would be what would emotionally satisfy my need/want to shop and have new clothes within the confines of having a tight(er) budget.   Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260578 Sun, 25 May 2014 02:50:02 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1260578@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Rabbit's got some good items and price ranges that I agree with. Honestly, I'd probably be fine for a year at least with whatever I have now. And if I had to restrict my budget big time, I'd just shift to thrifting only and resign myself to maybe not being quite as up on trends, which is pretty much what I did in college. If my budget were that tight I'd be mostly interested in practicality, and only secondarily on trends and fashion. Occasionally I have dreams / daydreams that I've lost all my stuff and have to start completely over. In that case, my basic list would look something like this: One pair dark denim jeans 2-3 knit tees for the various seasons Vneck cardigan Casual flats Jacket or coat A bra, a couple pairs of underwear, and pjs Then with a bit more time, money: A button front shirt Cotton pants A pencil skirt Low heels or wedges So then I'm ok for business casual occasions and can mix and match with the other stuff. Then I'd add in a pair or two more of jeans, cords if it's winter and a sweater, a pair of shorts in the summer, a pair of comfy sneakers and socks. A couple more pairs of shoes and a second jacket. rabbit on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260528 Sun, 25 May 2014 01:53:08 +0000 rabbit 1260528@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If it was needs this would be my yearly list: -running shoes  (less than 50$ at an outlet) -a dark and light bra  ($15-$8) -one pair of fashion sneakers  (if I'm doing PPP $25) -2-3 tees (assuming I had less tops than I currently have, i.e. this was a year or two ago)  (3-10$ each) The prices are what I pay now and find plenty of options at off-price retail. If items wore out and really did need replacing, these are my short-hand out of pocket price ranges, I'll go above them for a super-duper love affair, but I don't generally have to - looking at all my purchases for the year they all fall in or below this range regardless of the original retail price.  Now I'd need time to hunt, and access to my usual stores as the caveat.  If I needed an interview outfit the next day, I might double some of these  prices. Dress shoes/flats $20-$9 leather booties/sneakers $35-$20 Jackets/Blazers $35-$20 (not leather, but good enough blazers for office jobs) Sweaters/tops/cardigans $15-$3 Belts $10-$3 Dresses $15-$7 Pants/Jeans $20-$9 Leggings/tights/hose $9-$2 scarves $13-5 skirts $10-5 ironkurtin on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back/page/2#post-1260483 Sun, 25 May 2014 00:34:53 +0000 ironkurtin 1260483@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think if things got really tight I could probably do with what I have and only replace things in case of dire need, like the divine Miss M is talking about.  I've done it before when I lived in NYC, and it wasn't fun, but it worked. Mo on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260424 Sat, 24 May 2014 23:42:28 +0000 Mo 1260424@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ooh, many of you have brought up an excellent barometer of need - items physically wearing out. I realize I was somewhat arbitrarily choosing categories to balance the amount of new and fresh in my closet amongst most things, rather than by items truly wearing out and needing replacement.   Caro in Oz on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260402 Sat, 24 May 2014 23:20:30 +0000 Caro in Oz 1260402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great question. I honestly don't have any "needs" as such. I know that new boots/shoes are key to me feeling as though my wardrobe is current so a fair bit of my budget goes into footwear. Other than that I would put my money into upgrades or replacements. For our winter I'm looking for knitwear that isn't itchy & I'd love to find "my" pants suit. celia on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260399 Sat, 24 May 2014 23:18:52 +0000 celia 1260399@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This is a great question Mo and very humbling in my case. If I had to cut back realistically I would need: -1 pair of work appropriate nude pumps -1 pair of work appropriate boots -1 pair of gear(ish) winter boots Do you sense a trend here? Otherwise I think I would be good until next summer clothes wise. If we are talking about keeping current but still on a strict budget I would add to the above: -black sandals to wear with black ankle pants if I wanted to upgrade my work wardrobe(which I might): -a pant suit for fall/winter -an on trend blazer for fall/winter -a linen blazer for summer Fast forward to my list of 'cravings': tis 2 items from Jacob: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.jacob.ca/floral-chiffon-blouse">http://www.jacob.ca/floral-chiffon-blouse</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.jacob.ca/short-sleeve-cardi-1">http://www.jacob.ca/short-sleeve-cardi-1</a> and this sandals: <a rel="nofollow" href="https://shoestudio.ninewest.ca/product.asp?productid=10680">https://shoestudio.ninewest.ca.....ctid=10680</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="https://shoestudio.ninewest.ca/product.asp?productid=13243">https://shoestudio.ninewest.ca.....ctid=13243</a> and the finds attached. Lyn D. on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260341 Sat, 24 May 2014 22:20:35 +0000 Lyn D. 1260341@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great thought-provoking question Mo! I have been buying much more classic items and better quality this year.  If I had to drastically change my spending in 2015 I would aim to replace the items I have actually worn out,  and perhaps only get something new if it is a strong trend that fits my style parameters well. I would try to stick to my 'needs list' and avoid on-line purchases that tend to be un-planned. Although I usually return mistakes, they mean an extra trip to B&M stores and further temptation! My list might be something like this: Black ankle boots for Winter. I new scarf in the latest pattern. Short sleeved top in a trending colour. How is it that I buy so many things when my 'needs' are so few?? Alassë on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260338 Sat, 24 May 2014 22:17:15 +0000 Alassë 1260338@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ If I needed to tighten the belt, I wouldn't have to buy anything (gulp). In order not to feel deprived, I suspect I'd need a couple purchases per season. I used to buy like that, in college... need to get back to that state of mind. Good post, Mo! Anonymous on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260320 Sat, 24 May 2014 21:53:43 +0000 Anonymous 1260320@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think my list would be determined by what needed replacing or refreshing. For this F/W, I'd like to get a cashmere cardigan, a pair or shoes/boots, a few L/S tops and maybe a pair of looser jeans. That would be minimum shopping---and that might be all I get, but I have to see what's out there when the time comes. I agree that a little refreshing of the wardrobe is very necessary to one's mental health, even in times of scaling back! Isabel on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260294 Sat, 24 May 2014 21:25:06 +0000 Isabel 1260294@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I totally forgot that I always have one pair of linen pants and I don't have a pair this year !!! I may get that. Greyscale on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260184 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:37:28 +0000 Greyscale 1260184@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ When I was in grad school I was really thrifty. I wish I was still so good at budgeting. Anyway, the main difference was buying almost everything second-hand. But - the result was a mishmash of things that worked and things that didn't. If I had to go back to that now (1/3 of my current income) I'd try to be more intentional. I don't know what the list would be, but I know I'd cut out any "fancy" clothes as I only rarely wear them. Jeans, tshirts, a few shoes, and sweaters will get me through almost everything. But I spent too much money on skirts, dress pants, etc - whether used or new, they don't get worn enough to be justified in a minimal wardrobe. Isabel on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260180 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:35:59 +0000 Isabel 1260180@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ This is very interesting and timely.  I have been on SYC for a month and plan to do so until September.  I have too many Summer clothes and shoes considering what a short season it is. Additionally I want to use the money in other ways ( a bike and wet suit shorts for kayaking in colder water )  I also want to save up for 3 things that I want in the Fall that will take more than a monthly budget :  big merino wool or cashmere sweaters in grey and navy and a really wow navy blazer. That is what I have been focusing on :  what did I wear out this Fall/Winter that was essential for me ? Plus, I cannot get my head around what I have now and how to work it when things are coming in all the time.  I have found that I have a hard time knowing what will work for me in the future.  I need to be in it and assess it during the season.  So for me, it will be underwear and anything that I really need to function.  In the Summer that would be lightweight dresses and comfy sandals  ( and I am set with that ).  For the Winter, it would be large sweaters in my core colors ( above ), camis,  jeans and boots.  I always have a black blazer.  I could make anything work if I have that to start with.  This reminds me of cooking.  If I have olive oil, vinegar, an onion, some garlic, bay leaves, pasta, tomatoes, a frozen vegetable, one can of tomato paste, flour, yeast, eggs, milk and potatoes, I can figure out something to eat  ( potato soup, vegetable soup, pasta with a pomodora sauce or a vinaigrette, I could make bread. I could even make my own mayo and ketchup.  ) ....you get the picture.   :  )    Oh...I would definitely need to budget for an apron !  LOL  rachylou on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260179 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:33:45 +0000 rachylou 1260179@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Parking lot bedroom! Yeah, on the matter of the puffer, I pretty much take it off only to sleep. My puffer purchased this winter... already has a rent. It's patched with scotch tape. I need to do something about that. Mo on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260163 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:14:20 +0000 Mo 1260163@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Rachy, I love your humor - the category of heading to a crate under the freeway!  Still a new puffer, though?  I find my coats last a while and that's why I left it off the minimal needs list for a theoretical tight belted 2015.  I have 6 (?) outerwear coats to rotate through.  I'll admit a jacket is usually enough in Tahoe, and outerwear happens only about a couple times a week in winter.  I guess the black pants and work sneakers is my own 'heading to my crate under the freeway' (or sleeping in the parking lot of whichever job!). Gaylene on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260160 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:12:15 +0000 Gaylene 1260160@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Your question, Mo, is interesting because, while my rational, logical side adores a good list, I don't know if it would actually help me get the most from my limited funds, especially if my life was in transition. I know from past experience putting dollar limits on my spending, or limiting the number of items I'll purchase, does dramatically decrease my spending because I'm loath to spend my limited funds on anything less than a dire need or a true love. On the other hand, a list might make me MORE inclined to buy something whether I needed it or not because I'd feel so good about crossing an item off my list--even to the point of hunting and stalking something just for the thrill of the chase. I suspect that knowing our own triggers is really important here. ETA: Just saw your revised question about feeling current. I think it would be almost impossible for me to know in advance what would give me the most bang for my buck, fashion wise. So much would depend on the direction that my life actually took in the upcoming year. LoriFLA on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260154 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:08:16 +0000 LoriFLA 1260154@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh Bethune is great.  Running a 5k in New Smyrna tomorrow. :-) I think I was in more the mindset of what does a fashion lover scale back to and still be satisfied, and not like they're missing out and on the sidelines. My list of purchases that would satisfy if I couldn't shop until September: <ul> <li>Oversized watch in stainless or gold</li> <li>one tube skirt</li> <li>two pair shorts</li> <li>summer handbag</li> <li>linen blend pant</li> <li>3-4 tops</li> <li>boyfriend jeans in lighter denim</li> <li>stud earrings for work in silver and gold</li> <li>silver necklace</li> <li>gladiator sandal in nude or metallic</li> <li>running shoes</li> </ul> For my lifestyle, and financial status, this is a realistic list and I probably won't buy more than what is on the list.  I have enough running clothes and only need new shoes.  At work I either wear a work-issued polo shirt and chinos or scrubs.  rachylou on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260153 Sat, 24 May 2014 17:06:32 +0000 rachylou 1260153@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ We're talking, like, things to be purchased every year? For me, I'd say, excluding undies: <ol> <li>New puffer</li> <li>New wool coat</li> <li>New heavy winter cardigan</li> <li>New lightweight cardigan</li> <li>Two new jumpers</li> <li>A couple blouses</li> <li>A couple of jersey tops/tees</li> <li>A couple pairs of pants</li> <li>Belt bag for dog walking</li> <li>Dog walking shoes</li> <li>Sneakers</li> <li>Short boots</li> <li>Low heels</li> <li>Thermal tops</li> <li>Wool socks</li> <li>Dress socks/nylons</li> </ol> But it's true I have a lot and not all this really has to be replaced yearly. I could reduce this to: <ol> <li>New puffer</li> <li>Dog walking shoes</li> <li>Sneakers</li> <li>Short boots</li> <li>Low heels</li> <li>A couple of jersey tops/tees</li> <li>Thermal tops</li> </ol> Going minimal minimal: <ol> <li>New puffer</li> <li>Dog walking shoes</li> <li>Sneakers</li> <li>Low heels</li> <li>Thermal tops</li> </ol> Heading for my crate under the freeway: <ol> <li>New puffer</li> <li>Sneakers</li> <li>Thermal tops</li> <li>A tarp ;)</li> </ol> Laurinda on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260138 Sat, 24 May 2014 16:51:31 +0000 Laurinda 1260138@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Even as a starving grad student I had enough clothes - the challenge in SYC for a year or three was more emotional in feeling deprived by not having an occasional nice new (to me, could be 2nd hand) thing. So I second TraceyLiz in budgeting for some new thing each month, depending on what is at the top of the needs list. I would worry about work clothes if I ever came to that bridge, knowing I would have extra money for the toll at that point.  Mo on "What if you really had to cut back?" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/what-if-you-really-had-to-cut-back#post-1260133 Sat, 24 May 2014 16:44:53 +0000 Mo 1260133@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Nice.  I ran yesterday at 10am and was pushing it . . .  I lived in New Smyrna Beach my first move out here in 2003.  Bethune Beach, actually.  It was nice to have waves.  lol