justify

Ok, I am feeling a little bit guilty about my shopping habit, especially after that post this morning.

After thinking about it some more, I feel like I have to justify spending $200-$300 per month on clothes/personal shopping. That just sounds like a lot to me... and I am curious to see if it seems like a lot to you too.

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I am fortunate to not have a car payment, to pay very little in rent (in relation to my location, and quality of life), split utilities/groceries with my roommate, and have a steady income that I can rely on month to month.
I also justify my shopping based on the fact that is my only habit/hobby - I don't spend money on gardening, crafting, or home brewing (like the boyfriend), or fixing up my house like other people do.

I also justify the fact that during this stage in my life I can get away with it... I figure once I have a husband, kids, mortgage, my selfish shopping habit will dry up quickly.

I also shop smart, and love everything that I buy.
(Read on for more of these "smart" shopper tips...)

As a frugal grad student, in order to get the items that I need and want for my closet, I have to be extremely intentional about my shopping habit.

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There are many factors that I consider before purchasing an item (after giving my impulsive side a stern talking to):

 Can I imagine creating 4-5 outfits with this item (yes that number is high, but I have only so much space for bringing in new clothes)

 What will be the cost/per wear of this item?

 Purchasing a classic item (i.e. my new tweed jacket) that costs $100 but I can see myself wearing it 10 times/year for 5 years means that the cost/wear is $2, whereas if I splurge on a hot trendy item that also costs $100 but only wear it twice then in my mind I'm spending $50 to wear it each time.

When justifying a purchase in my mind, I like to be able to calculate a cost/wear ~$5. Meaning splurging on items that will be workhorses in my closet (jackets, shoes, jeans), and finding cheaper alternatives to super hot/trendy/only going to be wearing it a few times pieces.

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Do I have something else in my closet that already serves this purpose?

Yes:

-- and I don’t ever wear it … don’t purchase (and consider donating the older item)

-- and I love it SO much… yes purchase as backup

-- but it probably shouldn’t ever see the light of day again because I have worn it to shreds…. yes purchase (and throw-out/donate the old)

-- but I only wear it once in a while… only purchase if the new item is something phenomenal & special

No:

-- and it is on my list of 50 wardrobe staples… yes purchase

-- but it fits all of the above questions (outfit potential, low cost/wear)… yes purchase

-- otherwise, step away quickly!

Do you stick to a monthly shopping budget?
What amount do you feel comfortable spending on clothes each month?
Any guidelines you stick to when shopping for new closet additions?
xx

Jessica