Hi all! I was just updating my Finds for the last couple of months (forensic credit card sleuthing haha!) and considering my year-that-was in terms of shopping.

I was surprised that I didn't buy all that much this year, as I was worried the tally would be higher than I wanted. I didn't include gear socks, a pair of flip flops and four new badly-needed bras in the final tally.

I purchased roughly 27 items this year, so a little over two a month on average (down from my typical 3 a month, or 36 total). This included clothes and quite a few accessories, including a necklace, two handbags, a belt, sandals, sneakers, and a new winter hat and scarf, and two new workout tees. All in all, a lower-buy year for me I'd say.

Overall, I would say it was a decent style year - I had all I needed and more, and was generally fine with everything. Some midlife body changes (and mood/attitude changes ha!) have been giving me some grief, but I've had a good sulk and now am on to exploring how to honor my current body and lifestage best I can.

Best of the Year:
- Looking at my purchases, there haven't really been any terrible duds (exceptions detailed in below) - I can say I've barely worn the pink blazer, but it was thrifted and I had no expectation it would get worn more than a couple times a year, when I am feeling bold.
- It was the autumn of navy blue, with lots of staples in that shade in the shopping cart. I was kind of off it for a couple years but now am loving it again (and it loves me back, vs. black - which to be fair I also still love!)
- Lots of workhorses this year - in fact the pink blazer and blue & white striped sweater, slim belt and white v-neck may be the only four pieces that *haven't* been workhorses.

Worst of the Year:
- Middle age menopause grief. Ugh. Moving on!
- The white v-neck sweater was a flop - however, it looks AMAZING on DD, worn off one shoulder. So losses have been cut! Lesson learned: wide and deep v-necks do not suit me. Do not kid myself because the drape and sleeves are so good I think I can make it work. Camis cannot fix everything hah!
- The skinny belt has made me less happy than expected. I don't know why - I think I just need a slightly wider belt to feel comfortable. Onwards.
- Two stupid purchases for our recent trip down south (but both getting returned, so it's okay and I didn't count them as purchases - one dress was too cutesy, the other two puffy and dramatic in shape. Lesson learned: don't panic-buy for vacations!

Thanks for reading and belated Merry Christmas to all those celebrating, and love to those for whom it's not a happy time xx

Note: gray sleeveless sweater - mine is black / light gray ankle pants - mine are beige