My New Closet Needs New Accessories!

After the closet revamp, it was highly evident that I need some new options.  Taking on a formerly joint household by myself and Robert's medical bills, the extra funds for anything usually go to anything else but me and my style (haha - style!).  I have always thought I need to step out from my usual clothing stops, but I never do for whatever reason.  Instead, I pin ideas like this on pinterest.

Unfortunately, these are ideas.  And I never put anything this fabulous together EVER!  (Does anyone, really?)

Let's face it...The mid-price range clothing stores aren't known for their quality anymore (or ever?).  I guess everything is made in the same sweatshop in Asia or South America these days (sad).  I have very recently bought tops from Ann Taylor Loft and The Limited only to find a hole in the shirt the second time I put it on.  I seriously don't expect more than a season out of those clothing brands...But I do expect a season!

I read an article recently that discussed the current economic demands for clothing.  It showed a steady incline in the percentage of our income that consumers spend on clothing, shoes, purses, etc. over the past 100 years.  But it also graphed the number of items that we purchase - it was a steady incline as well until around the 1970s-80s where it began a sharp incline becoming steeper as the decades went on.  Therefore, consumers are increasing the number of items purchased compared to their spending.  Essentially, we are happy buying crap, as long as, it is more crap for the same money.  That makes sense.  Quality isn't a virtue in clothing anymore so instead of continuing to whine about holes in my shirts, I must join the masses and just buy cheap since I am apparently doing it anyway.

So on to becoming a savvy budget shopper.  I ventured into Forever 21 this past weekend.  I had never stepped a foot into that store until that day.  I was pleased and horrified all at the same time.  Forever 21 is an experience.  All I have to say is that like styles are grouped together so keep walking beyond whatever you don't like and you will find a grouping of items that you somewhat like.  Eventually, I walked out with a small bag that included a cream blouse ($14.80), a pair of shoes ($19.80), and a small birdie charm necklace ($2.80).  Total spent = $41.14.  Less than one top at Loft.

I then walked into JCPenney and found their new line - Joe Fresh - that I received an enticing advertisement for this week.  I am in desperate need of basics.  I bought five tops and two pants.  Total spent = $167.20.  I then drove home, checked my mailbox, and found a $10 off purchase coupon to JCP.  Of course.

A few of my new finds today.  :)

Shopping prior to today...Drive to Ann Taylor Loft.  Find arm fulls of randoms to consider.  Try on.  Buy whatever looks decent.  Spend too much.  Wear.  And sometimes never wear.

New idea...Drive to various stores.  Find outfits to try on including things in new styles, fits, and colors.  Try on.  Only buy what looks really good and is also a great price.  Wear it all.

I wouldn't say today was total success as I didn't buy anything that was actually "on sale".  But I did buy 6 tops, 2 pants, and 1 pair of shoes for around $200.  I am pretty proud of myself for that alone!  It is a vast improvement!