Before joining YLF, I was not knowledgeable about fashion and trends, and therefore did not shop very smart. I regularly wore tees, button-down shirts, cardigans, and trousers. When I got tired of the look, I would go out and buy more of the same but in different colors and patterns, and still would not be able to figure out why I don't look and feel great in my clothes.

And now, I am learning so much about silhouette, proportion, body type flattery, and trends. As a result, I am buying more than what I usually spend. But that is because I am filling wardrobe holes with items that did not exist in my closet and have the potential to refresh and update my wardrobe, such as fluid fit tops, high-low and cropped knitwear, pastels, and moto toppers. My wardrobe is 80% classic staples and 20% trendy items. That is what is best for my budget and lifestyle. Versatility, longevity, and the ability to mix-and-match pieces are essential for me.

I stick to shopping only sale/clearance and try not to duplicate things that I already have (note to self - no more cardigans and trousers!). Seasonal closet review and edit helps me keep things in check. I make a list of what I own, what I need, and bring a list on my shopping trips to remind myself what to buy and what not to buy (no more cardigans and trousers!). Thanks to Angie and all the lovely ladies on the forum for giving me the guidance and confidence to make smarter fashion and purchasing decisions!

This is such fascinating thread. I love reading about the different approaches we all have.

I put aside a certain dollar amount each pay period - approximately 4% of our income. All clothing purchases for anyone in the family comes out of this budget.

The only exception would be any bonuses I earn, I usually treat myself to one larger ticket item before splitting the rest between savings and paying down the mortgage faster.

For necessary items, like undergarments or haircuts, we try not to worry too much and make allowances as needed. Outside of the necessities, my husband and I have a $100/month budget - that's it - and that money is for fashion, coffee, movies, etc.

We could afford to spend more, but we're very (very) careful and thoughtful about our finances. That has always allowed us to do things like enjoy spontaneous weekends away, or take the kids to fun weekend activities.

I don't have a percentage amount as a budget. But my spending would probably go between 5-10 percent of gross. I pay all my bills, put some aside for savings and my retirement, and then buy a few things. Sometimes I'll have a big ticket item in mind, I.e. A coat, and I'll scale back elsewhere. This past year I lost enough weight to have to go down at least a whole size, so I replaced some things and had some tailored. But if it wasn't going to come out well after tailoring, I bought new. I plan to retire in a few years, so I am trying to not buy clothes that are too business-y. I have enough suits and jackets. I do spend on maintenance, I have lots of dry clean stuff and I keep my shoes in good repair. But I don't color my hair, use a mixture of drugstore and prestige cosmetics, and do my own manicures but spring for pedicures!