My 90 day no shopping challenge is officially over! I successfully did not buy one item of clothing for myself for 3 months, although I did buy
these pants from Gap with my reward points, so not sure if that counts. I joined my friend,
Kelsey, back in January for this "fun" challenge as I noticed myself always shopping sales (specifically Gap), and getting to the point where I was buying just to buy because it was on sale. Don't get me wrong, I love every thing I purchase, but I didn't need it.
Challenges:
- Stepping away from the emails. In the beginning I was still receiving retail emails daily on specific sales. I quickly learned I could not handle looking at those everyday, so I unsubscribed from all of my retail websites.
- Staying away from clothing stores. On the weekends, I like to spend a few hours of my baby-free time shopping or at least window shopping. During the challenge, I found it very hard to window shop knowing that in 3 months that top I loved might not be there, so I had to find a new weekend activity (insert estate sales).
What I learned:
- This challenge has helped me to realize what essential items I want (I really hate to use the word, need, when it comes to clothes) in my closet that can build a great wardrobe, and also help me to focus on the specific pieces of clothing I want to save for. It was a great time to start the challenge, because I became a thrifting fool of furniture and home decor, and it was nice to have that extra money to spend on our house.
- It can wait. There were a few times during the challenge I saw an item of clothing that I felt I just had to have, BUT I had to walk away. The only thing that gave me the strength to walk away was the challenge. I was able to practice self restraint numerous times. Many items I saw have come and gone in my mind, but a few have stuck out. If I'm still dreaming about them they will likely be great additions to my wardrobe.
Thankfully, Alex and I started a very strict budget, so I won't be going on a crazy shopping spree since the challenge is over. Below are a few of the specific items I can't get out of my head that I feel would be perfect for my spring wardrobe.
1.
Anthropologie Tunic $48 - I find myself wearing plain t-shirts every weekend, so this tee is perfect to add a bit more detail and get more of a put together look.
2.
Lotta T-Bar Clogs $78 - These have great reviews, and are less pricey than other popular brands. These would be perfect to dress up a pair of boyfriend jeans or a simple cotton dress.
3.
Fossil Chambray Popover $88 - I've always loved denim, and I've been living in my Gap denim pearl snap (I remember buying it for $50 6 years ago, and worrying I spent too much money on it. That is definitely not the case now, because I have washed it over and over and it still has maintained its quality)
4.
Jeffrey Campbell Ibiza Sandal $55 - Simple and versatile enough to throw on with a pair of shorts or a casual dress
5.
Fossil Slim Boyfriend Jean $98 - I live in jeans. I probably wear jeans 4 out of 7 days a week. I've got slim pickins right now in my closet, so this will definitely be my first purchase after the challenge.
6.
ASOS Smock Dress $40 - It's finally warming up here in Texas, and I'm ready to wear dresses again. This dress looks comfy enough to lounge around in on the weekends or dress up for dinner with friends.
7.
Toms Classic $54 - I have worn my gray Toms in to the ground. They're covered in paint and my big toe is poking through. I feel a bit white trash when I wear them out, but they are so comfy. It's about time I replace them.
I would definitely be up for doing the challenge again, maybe next time a full year?! Did you participate in the challenge? If so, how did you do?!
