EWP, You find such cool stuff, but how can someone afford all this? My husband put me on an allowance! An allowance! Help!!!!
Dear Anon,
I can totally relate. Horror of all horrors, my husband just put me on a budget as well! But in these tough and uncertain economic times, it's just sound fiscal sense for people to have a budget.
Let me start by saying that I never would expect someone to buy everything I post. My posts are ideas for others: I do the online searching for you and bring you the internet's best to choose from. How you choose which items to buy is the important part.
1. Needs
First, it's always important to figure out what it is you need. If your winter coat is old and falling apart, by all means buy a new one. If you own 5 black skirts and see another one you really like, maybe think hard about as you most likely don't need it.
2. Staple items
When it comes to things you'll need and wear often - pencil skirt, work pumps, basic cardigan or top, etc. - it's important to invest and buy a quality piece, even if it seems a little expensive. You'll thank yourself later when it doesn't fall apart on you right away like a bargain find might, and you'll wear it so much that it will be more than worth the money.
3. Good Deals
Sometimes things come along that are just too good to pass up (Badgley Mischka for $148?! I'll take that, thank you.) When something amazing you may have been coveting at a ridiculous price comes down to regular middle-class jane level, it's best to pick it up lest you kick yourself for years after.
4. Sale Does Not Equal Must Buy
#3 brings me to the next rule, sometimes people fall prey to things being on sale and being compelled to buy it because it's on sale. Don't buy it just because it's on sale. Sometimes things are on sale for a reason (i.e. ill fitting or ugly). Keep a discerning eye and think if you're really going to wear it.
5. Treat Yourself
And after showing all that restraint, sometimes a girl just needs to treat herself. Every once in a while grab that Nanette Lepore coat or Tiffany's cuff, you've earned it! The trick is to make sure not to treat yourself too often.
And there you have it, EWP's guide to shopping within a budget
