“Splurge” is relative. It means $5K to some people, $5 to others. And the wardrobe items that are worth investment will vary wildly from person to person. A lawyer may want to invest in suits, a stay-at-home mom may want to invest in washable tops, an athlete may want to invest in workout gear. So, ya know, grain of salt. And bear in mind that I’m gonna give you my OWN list of items that don’t merit splurge-level spending as a launch pad. The real conversation will be in the comments!
That said, here are items upon which I prefer to scrimp:
White tees
I am HARD on my white tees. They get stained, grimy, and dull after a single year of wear and believe me, I have tried all of the whitening techniques and products under the sun. Mine must be a stainy, grimy, dull life is all. So I’ll never pony up for an $80 Vince tee, no matter how gorgeous and flowy it might appear. Simple, cheap, and easy to find are my three criteria. (And, for the record, the expired white tees generally get overdyed!)
Jewelry
I can hear the steam flowing forth from WendyB‘s ears. And I realize that jewelry is a mega-big deal to many people, and totally splurge-worthy. But I get just as much joy from jewelry I’ve made or repurposed myself, nabbed for pennies at the antique store, or bought from a small artisan at an art fair or via Etsy. I adore the fine and investment pieces I do have, but am such a magpie that I’m just as happy with glittery rhinestones as I am with diamonds. If it sparkles, I like it.
Ballet flats
This is the weirdest one on my list, I think. Especially since I feel fairly comfortable ponying up for just about every other style of footwear. But the mere idea of spending more than about $50 on a pair of ballet flats irks me. And the only reason I can muster is that they’re so incredibly simple in design and generally require so little in the way of clever construction, that I can’t fathom spending big on them. I have crap flats and I have supportive flats, and the supportive ones are spendier. But none have topped the $50 mark. (OK, one pair would’ve but I got ‘em on eBay for a song!) If I’m going to splurge on shoes they need to be sturdy, complex, utterly gorgeous, or impossibly comfortable. No ballet flat has ever qualified.
And in the realm of items that I never thought would be worth splurging upon but have changed my tune, we have tights (the $40 and $50 ones feel, wash, and wear a billion times better than the $8 ones), handbags (mostly because I never thought I’d give a hoot about them at all), and makeup (I don’t buy much, but I buy quality).
Which wardrobe items will you NEVER allow yourself to splurge upon? Anything overlapping with my list? What’s your reasoning? Got anything that you swore you’d always scrimp upon, but now spend big?
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{ 77 comments… read them below or add one }
Gloves. I lose them, break them, dirty them and spoil them in tens of other ways so it would be a true waste for me to invest in them. As long as I’m warm and they fit I’m a happy camper.
The only “splurge” I have is a winter jacket. For years, I kept buying a $40-50 coat each winter from Target or some other bargain place. However, they never really shielded me from the bitingly cold Minnesota winters, and they would need replacing after one year. Three years ago, I decided to head to Dick’s to get a “real” winter jacket – one that is stylish, warm, and durable. I spent over $200 on this winter coat (a HUGE expense for me), but it has been so worth it. It’s incredibly toasty but not too bulky, still looks brand new after three winters, and it’s purple (my favorite!).
I am starting to see the value in spending a little more on boots and jeans, but that is about it. Everything else, I’m mostly a thrifty buyer. I especially don’t let myself splurge on t-shirts. Like you, Sal, I am hard on them. My tees and camisoles get a lot of wear. I have spent anywhere from $5 on a tee to $30 (it feels silly to spend more than that on a tee/camisole), and I cannot tell the difference.
I splurged on bras once after years of suffering through bargain bras, and to be honest, it was not worth it. I think bras are just uncomfortable in general. I have taken to wearing padded convertible bandeau bras most of the time. They can either have straps or be strapless (or just one strap), and they feel like a sports bra without creating a uniboob. Plus, they look like camisoles, so when I wear a v-neck top, I don’t need to put something underneath!
Sally, I’m with you on the white tees. The trick is finding inexpensive ones that are opaque enough for me. And usually with you on the jewelry, though I have splurged on a very few gorgeous Wendy B pieces that I know I’ll wear for decades more…
Une Femme – what is your go to vendor for inexpensive yet opaque white tees? Lately the ones I am finding are made of a thicker cotton which gets shorter if you don’t get them out of the drier quick enough… Thanks.
Try Lands End for good white tees in an opaque cotton that doesn’t shrink. I put mine through washer and dryer with no problem (at laundromats, too, which are famously hard on clothing). They usually come in Tall, which helps with the length problem. (Disclaimer: no connection with LE except as customer.)
I live in the Gap essentials t-shirt. I’m not sure opaque you’re going for, but typically with a nude bra underneath, I’m fine.
I used to buy inexpensive shoes since I had a puppy that liked to eat shoes. After dealing with an extremely painful year-long battle with plantar faciatiis, (try $500 orthotics, giant shots, medications and physical therapy), I will NOT scrimp on shoes.
I do like nice jewelry (Wendy’s pieces make me drool), and would rather have a few nice pieces than a bunch of junky pieces. That’s a conclusion that I have come to as I have gotten older.
As far as clothes go, I like to mix high end and low end. I will buy a really expensive jacket at Sak’s but then buy a $30 Target blazer.
I don’t splurge on any shirts, whatsoever. I am decidedly rough on them, no matter how hard I try. I have big boobs, so they stretch out, get pills under the arms and I drop food on myself far more often than I’d like to admit. I have some “nicer” ones, for going out on the town, but if I spent more than $10 on a shirt, it’s astonishing. (It’s one of the reasons I can’t commit to Gwynnie Bee.)
I have a few pairs of nicer pants, and am looking to add more – but I don’t have the lifestyle for a wardrobe of nice pants. I’m a stay-home mom. Cheap jeans from Target or Old Navy. Although I did just get a few pairs featured by Wardrobe Oxygen.
I do splurge – bras and shoes. I can’t find appropriate undergarments on the cheap, no matter how hard I try. One of my 2013 goals is to figure that out, trying some new brands soon, aiming to find them on ebay and at a few discounters I’ve found. And as for shoes – I have bad feet. Dansko seems to be the way to make them happiest.
Try Brastop.com for discount bras in a wide range of sizes (not affiliated with them at all, but I hear a lot of great things!)
Sunglasses! I always get mine from Target because I lose or break them (or see my kids playing with them) way too often to spend a lot of money on them. I got into the habit when my girls were toddlers and loved to chew on the stems.
Same for me with the sunglasses! I have half a dozen pair of Target, thrifted, or garage sale glasses I lose, sit on, cram in glove boxes, etc. I must have them any time I’m outside, but I can’t spend much on them.
I was a cheap shoes gal until, like Tina, the plantar faciatiis set in. That will change your mind on shoes in a hurry. Now, Clarks are my fav brand or Orthaheel from the podiatrist!! $55 for flipflops but I have worn them every day for 2 years. They make my feet happy!
I don’t splurge much on anything, but I have splurged recently on skincare. Using some Lancome now and I love it but it hurts my wallet!!
Lisa—Are you wearing Orthaheel flip-flops?
I was told not to wear cheapie flip flops so I have been looking for a nice pair.
Never splurge:
Tank tops.
I’m always cold, so mine get lots and lots of use. No way I’m paying more than $9 for something I need to toss after one or two seasons.
Purses.
I wouldn’t carry one if it weren’t for my glasses case, and I never find the style I want, so I’m not going to pay big bucks for something I don’t LOVE.
Always splurge:
Bras.
At 26DD, I need to – they simply don’t make my size, and even if they do? Hella expensive.
Socks.
I’m SOO Picky with my socks, and live in SmartWool.
Stockings.
Many prefer tights, but I’m still a garter-and-belts girl. And that means old-fashioned fully-fashioned, non-stretch stockings. Pricy, but they make me feel like the kind of girl I want to be
Being broke for so long (and still), I have a hard time figuring out what splurging even is! To me, it’s buying anything non-essential, and higher quality. I wonder sometimes what everyone else’s definition is.
Victoria, may I ask where you have found 26DD bras? I just learned that’s my size as well, and I have not had much luck. I’m a thrifty gal, but a good fitting bra for the first time in my life would definitely be worth the splurge!
I buy the majority of my duds second-hand, so to me, a splurge is anything I buy new
When I do contemplate a new purchase, I spend time researching clothing that has been made ethically, is environmentally friendly, and will last several years. The sticker price that comes with that can be shocking, but I think we as a society have gotten used to paying too little for most of our clothes. Somebody always has to pay for the bottom dollar, even if it’s not us. If I don’t want to commit to paying good money for something (typically blouses or anything trendy), I head to the thrift store!
I haven’t yet, sadly. The best I’ve been able to do is go to Intimacy (don’t know where you’re based, but they’re US-based), and have things sized down. Freya makes some 28DDs, but I haven’t seen any 26DDs.
I lost about 10 pounds last year, and it meant that I went from the magical 28 to a 26. Such a hassle, but it’s nice having my bras finally feel GOOD.
Ewa Michalak is a Polish company that you can special order 26 band size bras from. Also, I’ve heard their sizes tend to run small so a 28 (which you don’t have to special order) may work for you.
http://www.ewa-michalak.pl/?lang=eng
Thin and curvy is a good resource for small band-large cup bra reviews. http://www.thinandcurvy.com/
Hi Ladies,
I have found a really good online resource for inexpensive but really good bras. http://www.brastop.com. I am a 32E. At the fancy bra stores that carry that size Its $78 or $100+ per bra. I recently bought 7 bras from bra stop for under $200. And best part is one of the reasons to return a bra is that you purchased the bra for the sole reason of seeing if it fit.
I’ll splurge on anything that fits well if the quality is good. As a sewist, I perform as much of an autopsy as I can before I fork over big bucks. And what I cannot see, I feel–the skills learned for breast self-exams have multiple uses
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I actually would splurge on a white tee if I could find a good one. Basic cotton knit goods ain’t what they used to be because the quality of the cotton is in decline (climate change comes to your closet).
Also, heels of any sort are not an option for me, so I’d probably spend more on stylish ballet flats–they’re almost the only choice I have.
I’m with you on the white t-shirts! Never spend more then 8$ for one… Actually that is pretty much any t-shirt, unless it is a special color… then no more then 25$
Scarfs, if I can’t find a scarf for less then 15$ it’s just not going to happen. Sure I have splurged once or twice in my 53 years, but believe me if you take care of them they last forever!
I used to only buy cheap shoes. Same with boats. Then I started feeling like I was walking on glass all the time, and I was told I have gout. So I am currently buying shoes that are for people with this problem, and have to pay over 150$ for a pair. However, the comfort is worth it! No more glass! Plus of course they last forever!
Tights is a toss up…. sometimes I just need a pair, and frankly leggings with warm socks inside boots make more sense in Minnesota, unless you get wool tights! Then I am prepared to spend big bucks for a pair that fits…
That was supposed to be boots… not boats!
I used to agree on all three fronts, until I owned pricier versions of all of them. For tee shirts, I always stuck to Old Navy or Target but then when a friend passed down a designer tee to me it was life-changing. Opaque, flattering, laundered great and didn’t even seem to stain as quickly. Same with ballet flats – a pair of Repettos truly are a different beast from simple flats from a chain retailer. As for jewelry, I love me some deals on costume jewelry but I am finding my cheapy alternatives tarnish and break far more quickly than better quality costume, but that could also be due to me now constantly wrangling my jewelry from toddler hands
I share your ire at expensive ballet flats. I just don’t get it (Cole Haan, I’m talking about you!!!). I’ve learned my lesson on unsupportive flats, but I’ll still look for a deal online when purchasing them. I will never skimp on regular shoes though. My fussy feet won’t let me.
I do skimp on tees and tops, most of the time. I can’t wear a white tee for more than a season before it’s ruined (I apparently have toxic pits). Buy cheap and replace often is my approach. I also have a hard time spending money on PJs. The prices they demand for those things are highway robbery!
This may be unflattering TMI, but I used to stain the underarm portion of my tees over time. This stopped happening when I switched to Tom’s of Maine deodorant, which doesn’t have aluminium in it (body odor is caused by bacteria eating your sweat and excreting waste products, so I think it uses hops and zinc to help retard the growth of bacteria instead of antiperspirant compounds?)
I’ve read that a helpful technique is to spread a thin layer of deodorant and let it fully dry before dressing in the morning to help prevent underarm stains.
I never splurge on underpanties. Plain, cotton, serviceable, comfortable ones are available in bulk packages for under $10. I prefer Hanes, as they are better-constructed and hold up better in the wash, but Fruit-of-the-Loom sometimes finds its way into my shopping cart, too. After about a year’s use, I toss them without a second thought, when they are … less than presentable.
I also scrimp on tees. They fade, stretch and the trendy colors change every season. I may delegate them to under things the next year as opposed to being the main attraction.
I also love cheap jewelry, I have bucket loads, all bought on sale at department and chain stores, they are kind of my signature
I spend on shoes ($100 to $130 mark, I find you can decent and comfy at that price point), bras (also $150 mark) and hair ( same $)
I can find good quality pants at the $50 to $100
But I buy shirts and blouses on deep discounts, I like to change them up a lot and as long as my pants and shoes are ok quality, I think I can ‘spice’ up the top with something different
Edited to add I wear a 38 F, those babies do not show up in any dept store in Canada. Hence the splurge
For the most part, I agree about these — but I own a couple pieces of nicer jewelry, and a few highly comfortable, sturdy ballet flats that cost more than $50. (Though far less than some of the $300 pair you’ll see at Zappo’s — you know, really?) I think it’s worth spending more for a few high-quality classic items that are going to see a lot of wear, and for me, black ballet flats and a silver cuff bracelet definitely qualify.
Things I always thrift or buy super cheap:
1) Workout gear — even though I exercise a lot. But I find you can get good-quality items for less at a Nike Outlet Store or at a Marshall’s/TJ Maxx.
2) Jeans and slacks – for some reason I have very good luck thrifting these. I’m a petite, so I often wind up hemming them, but even with the cost of the tailoring I rarely wind up paying more than $20.
3) Belts = easy to thrift.
Things I will never scrimp on:
1) Bras. I’m a 32G. I need a bra that means business! Besides, once you’re that size, you’re not even going to find anything in your average Target.
2) Handbags. I have come to believe a nice bag does wonders.
I don’t splurge on t-shirts–I want to be able to toss it into the dryer without worry, and they tend to fade/pill even when expensive under my laundry treatment. Same goes for camis and tanks. Socks are a skimp, but tights are a splurge.
However, I’m probably in the small minority of people under age 25 who DO splurge on jewelry. I can’t wear most base metal alloys against my skin, so my lower limit is solid sterling silver pieces and those are medium-range in price even on the low end.
I also splurge on bras, but in my size (32A) “splurge” thankfully means in the $50 range rather than $150!
I definitely agree with not splurging on tees and camis (my $3 target ones last me years!), especially white ones. They get stained and grungy sooo easily. I’m kind of a mix with the jewelry and ballet flats. I love really nice ones, and I’ve splurged on them in the past (I will never, ever regret my Tsubo flats!), but the cheapy stuff is fine too.
I’m at the point where I will never splurge on pre-made small knitwear like hats or scarves, because I can get good yarn and make something nicer on my own.
Now I really enjoy splurging on nice shoes and boots, and that is something I never used to do.
Agreed on the ballet flats! I love them and have a vast collection, from white to black and every color in between, but all of them were cheap, from TJ Maxx or Old Navy, etc. The one pair I have that I splurged on cost $59 (on sale) from Boden. They are cute as a button but hurt like bitch, so there you go…
Sandals – I buy lots of cheapo sandals. They only need to last one summer, & I only want to pay $10 or less. I figure I’m only kicking around with sweaty feet for a few months in them, so they get gross & I’ll throw them out. Last year, I did try to find a pair of high quality walking sandals for a Hawaii trip, but I had no luck & returned 2 pairs. So I’m back to cheapo sandals forever!
Also cheap layering pieces like T-shirts & leggings. I wear them all the time, I just need tons, they’re not an investment.
I splurge on shoes and boots—and then I wear them for a long long time–repairing them when necessary. Maybe the difference is that I am 60 years old and I value my feet and hope they carry me to the finish line. What is splurging? I would say spending more than more than $150. I have spent as much as $350 and those boots are still going strong.
I also will splurge on almost anything that will be worn a lot, has a chance to hold up over several seasons and is flattering.
I do buy my t-shirts at The Gap (white, black and gray). Sometimes they have great sales and I can buy them for as little as $4.00.
I buy nice purses, but will not splurge beyond $400 or so–and that is for a purse I will carry for several years.
I never splurge on t-shirts or underpants. Since I prefer cotton, they seem to wear more quickly, has anyone else experienced this?
I do splurge on good shoes (problematic feet) and bras (E-cup) and jewellery must be silver or gold (allergies). Titanium works as well but I’ve had mixed results with steel. Plastic or rubber is out of question since I get a rash from them, too.
The comments are so amusing!!!
I “splurge” on everything. I hate the way most cheaper things wash, wear and ultimately make me feel. I love slipping on my quality items that I carefully pick out and invest in. Makes me feel good, and I have a great curated closet as a result.
The one thing I do *NOT* ever spend on is sunglasses. $20 and under because I only manage to keep them for about six months to a year.
I don’t wear much jewelry but what I do wear I tend to skimp one. Its just not a great joy of mine.
I have a favorite type of Old Navy tank top and I stock up when they are on sale. I also use them as pj tops so I don’t really buy fancy pj sets just a nice tight tank with pants till bed time then just the tank.
I skimp on undies or sew my own from leftover fabric.
I used to skimp on athletic wear but now I buy good stuff and am never turning back. It fits better, wicks well, and doesn’t chafe.
I buy ballet flats at target so I skimp even more then Sal does there but I’m a minimalist runner so my feet really prefer life with little to no support. I’m barefoot whenever possible.
I used to skimp on jeans but don’t anymore. I either make my own or buy designer ones that fit like a dream. I’m a sahm so I consider jeans my work clothes.
I used to refuse to splurge on fitness attire, and then I started wearing lululemon and saw how much better it was to spend money on fitness clothing instead of running in sweats and cotton tee-shirts.
But I won’t spend big bucks on flannel PJs, cotton camisoles or lip gloss.
I WILL splurge on anything else that goes on my face. Just dropped a fair chunk of change on a new day cream (but it’s AMAZING, makes my face feel like silk).
Underpants! I will forever buy the 8-pack for $10.
Shoes that are not ones I will wear to work. I’ll spend a lot more on work shoes than weekend shoes.
Eyeglasses. There are online retailers that have cute frames for inexpensive, and when you don’t have vision insurance $20 for something you can’t wear for more than a year or two (well let’s face it, 5 pair of $20 glasses) is a lot better than $200 frames it will hurt to donate when my prescription changes.
I will not skimp on bras any more though. I used to and it was not comfortable. If I spend more it feels better.
I cannot think of one single wardrobe item that I skimp on! There are many, many things that I neither skimp nor splurge on, however. Most of my wardrobe is middle-of-the-road, with splurges mostly on footwear and coats.
I suppose you could say I skimp on certain items not in terms of cost but in terms of numbers. For example, I have precisely two handbags, both nice quality: a medium brown Fossil vintage-inspired flap bag, and a small black beaded evening bag. That’s all I need. I see lots of bags I like, but I choose to spend my money on other things because the two bags (well, mostly just the one bag, the beaded one rarely gets used) cover my needs. My everyday bag literally goes with every outfit in my closet. Mind you, I prefer to wear very little colour, so this helps. I might have to branch out a bit more in bags if I liked to wear colourful outfits!
Also jewelery. I own very little, but most of it is not costume jewelery. I wear the same two rings, one on each hand, every day. I almost never switch out my earrings. I rarely wear necklaces, and own only three. I will wear one cuff bracelet when it’s practical to do so. I own four bracelets. For me, less is more with jewellery.
How do you sew undies? Which fabrics? Details, please!!
There are tons of free patterns and tutorials on-line. KwikSew has good printed patterns (I suppose so do Vogue-Simplicity-McCalls-Butterick). You can make decent panties from t-shirt fabric (jersey knit), either bought new or scavenged from old t-shirts; or you can splurge and invest in gossamer silk or other fancy woven fabric if you want to. Elastic is widely available at fabric stores/departments, and sometimes even at convenience stores. Ditto thread. You can borrow a friend’s sewing machine if you don’t have one yourself.
I just made some this past weekend. I ended up making my own pattern from a pair of fav undies, then experimenting and tweaking until I got the pattern right for the (lack of stretch) in the pdf t-shirts I was using as fabric.But I got some great ideas by googling DIY underwear or DIY panties. Good luck!
No skimping on bras or shoes for sure. Also, as a classical musician, I will spend (lots of) money on quality, comfortable black clothing, since it will probably end up on stage at some point.
Tees: Target is my go-to, and jeans get thrifted for $15 or less. When I’m not playing I’m a mom, so if I can’t abuse it, I can’t use it!
I wouldn’t overspend on panties, PJs and underwear in general (a good supportive bra in basic color might be an exception).
On the other side, I’d be willing to spend a fortune for a good pair of jeans, since I have difficulties finding the ones that fit me.
Like you, I love jewelry and I don’t make a big difference between a diamond and a rhinestone. However, when I like a piece of jewelry, I’m willing to pay much more that it’s worth just to have it.
I spend as little as humanly possible on camisoles, underpants, tights, socks, and leggings. Which you will notice encompasses pretty much the entire undergarment category besides … bras. I’m resigned to needing some sophisticated engineering in this area. I will also splurge on eyeglasses–I mean, I wear them every waking second and the frames are probably one of the first things anyone notices about my face. I’m getting increasingly splurgey about shoes. I try to keep the price down on boots because I wear them out so, but on the other hand it’s hard to resist buying any that actually fit my legs and look good. Jewelry, I’m not sure what we’re considering a splurge. I tend to buy artsy Etsy-ish things. I might spend a couple hundred dollars (in practice, though, such things are usually gifts), but I have no interest whatsoever in precious gems.
Completely agree with the tees and make up. I get my tees from Kohls, but have found that the more expensive mascara doesn’t cake up, and the eyeshadow last longer and has a richer pigment with the more middle to high end brands.
In my old age, I’m all about soft textures, and pay more for scarves. However, I don’t pay alot for bras anymore no matter how much pay the life span is limited.
Never splurge:
Sunglasses and gloves- always loosing them!
Converted to splurging:
I have discovered my feet get blisters alot less with quality,non-cotton socks. Now I only get smartwool or high quality synthetics (ie running socks)
I don’t splurge on any clothes at all, except maybe a winter coat ($50 max) and shoes ($150 max). The shoes are necessary because I have arthritis in one of my feet, and I do my best to 1) find deals for $50 or less and 2) not buy many pairs. I have 4 pairs for cooler weather and 4 pairs of sandals right now. Yesterday, I splurged on a pair of supportive slippers because wearing my flimsy ones was causing plantar fasciitis. I spent $20 for some marked down from $60. Everything else I wear is under $25, even my bras (again marked down, I rarely pay full price for anything) though I probably would benefit from splurging on them.
I thought about this question on my run this morning: I am Mrs. In-between. I do not splurge, I do not scrim. I subscribe to the idea that you should get the best quality you can find for the lowest price you can. Most of my basic tees are from the Gap and Banana Republic. They’re soft and hold their pretty well. They are also almost always on sale. I seem to have the white tee/ yellow pit problem in the summer and I turn them inside out, smear them with oxy-clean paste and hang them out in the sun for a day. If I do that once a month, the shirts usually hold up okay.
My $$ limit on handbags is $100.00. I usually buy two a year. I usually use the same cheap bags over and over because I just drop them anywhere. (I hate having to put my handbag down on a bathroom stall floor – ick!)
I have found myself spending more on shoes each year. I took up running again about 2 years ago and it is just murder on my feet. I find it really hard to find cute/ comfy shoes for much less than $75.00-100.00.
I guess you could say that I scrimp on jeans. I still have never found “The perfect pair” but I do pretty well with Kut and Loft jeans. I’ve also noticed that consignment stores are just full of premium denim. The bonus there is that they are pre-washed, broken in, and hemmed.
I do love my accessories. I have bins of scarves that I’ve collected over the years and I’m now focusing my impulse buy money on two big arm parties.
I probably spend more money on athletic wear than anything else. I have to replace my running shoes 3-4 x/year. I have to buy what works with my feet and orthotics, not what is on sale. I also ride for a few biking clubs which means I have a very big selection of pretty hideous looking Lycra!
I refuse to buy cheap shoes of any type any more- “cheap” being more a function of construction rather than price, I guess. I buy leather and quality- and I shop like crazy for deals, or I don’t buy at all.
I scrimp on underwear. I buy mid-to-low end Kohl’s type brands, and as long as it’s comfy, I’m good.
I never, ever splurge on camisoles or undershirts. I used to pay $20 a pop for lace-trimmed camisoles at Lane Bryant and Kohl’s, but now I buy lace-free ones at Target for $9 each (but I wait until they are half off and stock up!) They come in a million colors and are the perfect thickness for layering under clothes (I layer one under every outfit I wear). I like jazzing up a plain outfit with a pop of color peaking out from my cardigan or sweater.
The one thing I do splurge on is great bras. I wear a 44DD and I need the right support. I try to follow sales (just stocked up at the after Christmas sales and got 4 for the price of 2) to save money – luckily I love Cacique and they are always buy 1, get 1 half off. If my boobs aren’t looking good, I could care less about anything else on my body. And if my bra isn’t comfortable, I am in misery all day. So this is definitely worth the splurge for me!
We have a $1 jewelry store in my home town and it’s the best! You never know what you’ll find in there! Some of it looks super cheap but you can also find some really cute stuff if you look hard enough. And it’s all a buck! I don’t splurge on hardly anything except occasionally a dress in a super original print. Anthropologie gets me with a fifties style dress in an original print every year!!! I think I’m going to start having to splurge on shoes though. As I get older I have noticed my feet and back are tolerating cheap ones less and less.
I don’t splurge on:
White tees. Actually, I stopped buying white tees altogether. It’s not my best color, and I am really, really good at staining them beyond hope on the first wear. (Also why I gave up khaki pants).
Casual sunglasses. Too easy to lose or break. Sport sunglasses, however are a different story. I got a deal on a pair of Oakleys that I use on the bicycle, and they are worth every penny and then some.
Handbags. I am not a statement bag girl. I’m just not. I’d prefer to spend my money on sports gear, not a purse.
Bras. I’m a 34B, and the Gillian and O’Malley bras from Target fit me perfectly. Their C9 sport bras do the job just fine.
Special occasion clothing. I so rarely need to dress up that I don’t see the point in spending a ton on an outfit I’ll wear once. I won’t pay more than $100 on dresses for weddings, and more than $20 on special shirts for parties. My cost per wear on these is enormous compared to everything else.
Cars. Ok, maybe not a fashion item, but I buy the most basic, frugal car I can that meets my needs, despite being able to afford a more luxurious vehicle.
My smart daughter told me to go to Nordstrom and get fitted for a great bra, then search on eBay for the same “make and model.” After finding one I love, I’ve been stocking up on NWOT ones (new with out tags) on eBay at a fraction of the price I paid at Nordstrom. (Yes, I could have returned the originals, but the fitter did such a fantastic job, I just couldn’t jeopardize her commission.)
My tops are 98% thrifted, my pants are 98% from Kohls, my work and casual shoes are a combination of eBay (same strategy as the bra purchases) or new. I refuse to pay much for dress shoes because I so rarely need them, but when I do, the Easy Spirit web site is my go to source.
My husband has caught a serious thrifting bug and LOVES to go – we’re pretty nerdy, but we’re well dressed 60-somethings!
I’m with you on jewelry, particularly earrings. My husband gave me some lovely diamond studs one year and I just couldn’t bring myself to wear them like I wanted to because I kept worrying about losing one. Finally I bought a similar pair in cubic zirconium, and I love them. Having a real pair at home, that I do wear for special events, makes me feel authentic when I wear the fakes. Things are to be enjoyed and if you can’t enjoy something that’s too expensive to use, why have it?
If you are ever interested, could could get the backs of your diamonds changed. After a scare of almost loosing one diamond stud earring when I was 22 or so (and only wore them for special occasions), my dad got the backs replaced. It’s called a “la poussette” back and since getting those, I have worn these diamonds non-stop. Literally all the time for over 15 years. (They are in my second hole.) The backs are AMAZING. The earrings have never once come off (except the very few times I have taken them out in that timeframe.) And if I ever lose one…yes, I will be sad because they were a graduation gift from my grandparents, but I will have enjoying getting a ton of wear out of them.
Hmm, I googled it and I think mine actually might be the Protektor system.
I used to buy $2 thongs for going to the pool or beach, & they were so uncomfortable & broke so easily I’d get a new pair each time I needed them, which wasn’t often. Then I spent $20 on a pair of Havaianas that I’ve worn daily throughout summer for five years now… unless I’m wearing my $25 pair. Or my $30 pair.
Sunglasses. Have I told you about the time that I lost my sunglasses and I had to go to the CVS immediately to buy a new pair, and when I went to put the new pair on, it bumped into the…sunglasses that were on the top of my head? Plus my sister was with me and she totally did not notice the sunglasses on my head and gently advise me that I did not really need a new pair, and we cracked up hard when both of us realized that they were RIGHT THERE ON MY HEAD? So yeah, some variation of that story every few months and you know why I have to buy the 9.95 ones from CVS.
Hilarious! Worth reading all the way to the bottom for the laugh you gave me! Thanks!
I’ve done the exact same thing! Went for a run outside…one pair of sunglasses on my face, one on my head!
I wouldn’t splurge on shirts or skirts, because it’s easy to find those items that fit me in thrift stores. Great-fitting pants are another story…
I fork out the most money on bras (34H is not easy to find)– my fitting at Bravissimo changed my perspective, and now I realize that other stores, even the higher end department stores, do not even have the inventory to give me an accurate bra fitting (and try and convince me their sizing encompasses all…not true for me–the bra fitting is only as good as the inventory, I find).
I like good quality boots, but I wait until they are on sale, (I pay 120,for a 350+boot). If they have a wedge or heel I can skip the orthodic, but for flats, I must have a shoe that accomodates the orthodic and that is tough to find.
I tend to save money on tops and sweaters — they always go on sale, and they are usually plentiful in several stores.
More and more now, I try and find the best item at the best price, and make sure I truly need it before I buy it. I love a bargain, but I usuallly fill up on what I need, and then browse until the right item (at right price) comes along.
I have to spend money on shoes (I have arthritis in my feet, ankles, and other joints) and bras (38G). I won’t spend on underpants (I buy the Hanes package) or T-shirts (Mossimo at Target holds up well). I’ve always bought drugstore pantyhose and tights, but now I think they may be worth spending more on. I think skin care is worth a splurge; with makeup I’m high/low. I usually buy mascara in the drugstore because I like to replace it frequently and don’t want to spend much on it, but I would spend on eye shadow. (But I think L’Oreal’s Infallible cream eyeliner is as good as a department-store brand.) I do prefer higher-end lipsticks and foundations.
I splurge on bras (36 DD) and shoes (9 1/2 or 10 AA) .
I skimp on jewelry. I purchase mostly costume, tribal, natural, self-made, etc…
My wardrobe is compiled of both high and low end from thrift and resale shops. Think Advanced Style.
Splurges for me are jewelry, handbags, bras, and shoes. Skincare and haircare are usually splurges as well but with hair products, I try to watch for sales on the higher end products.
I usually catch t-shirts and other clothing on sale or on clearance so I stock up that way.
If I can easily find it at a thrift store, or make it easily out of something I got at the thrift store, then I’m not going to splurge on it. Also not going to splurge on the basics I can pick up on sale at Old Navy, the “one in every color” sort of tank tops or layering pieces.
I also don’t splurge on eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses anymore. I like having more than one style handy, and the internet allows me to pay $10 rather than $100. I know my glasses are cheap and won’t last, but I’m poor and I like variety, so it’s cheap glasses for me.
For the last few years, I’ve been living with the rule that I won’t buy a pair of shoes I can’t walk a mile in without hurting myself (though a short break-in period is acceptable). I have my favorite shoe brands, but I’ll bargain hunt like a madwoman before I commit to a new pair. But cheap shoes are out, unless they’re tennis shoes. I’ll pay more for real leather and soles that actually have traction. Otherwise, I’ll skip it.
The other things I very occasionally splurge on are items with character that are PERFECT and unlikely to die quickly, like quirky etsy jewelry or a unique winter coat that fits my needs perfectly. Or something that looks absolutely AMAZING on me. If I’m never going to see anything like it again, I’ll snatch it up if I can afford it.
I have found that as I get older, I simply want high-quality items. They fit better, feel better, and make me feel good. High-quality does not necessarily mean expensive. I can sometimes find quality items that don’t cost a fortune, but it is getting harder and harder to do because I think fabrics and construction are getting worse and worse, even among the more expensive clothing stores.
T-shirts are at the top of my “save” list, too, as well as anything super basic, like cotton khakis or a sundress (to wit: http://www.closet-coach.com/2012/06/19/when-to-save-and-when-to-splurge-on-your-wardrobe/).
I put in the splurge column anything that should fit really well and/or will be used many times–blazers, one amazing pair of denim, a classic handbag. Somebody mentioned coats, and that’s a great one, too. You could even argue that a “splurge” isn’t really a splurge if it’s invested in a quality piece that will return its price many times over when Cost Per Wear is calculated.
Some things I used to buy on the cheap and have now changed my tune on include undergarments (I’d like the elastic not to spring loose after a few washings) and skincare products, especially now that I’m over 40.
And some things I have in a mix of inexpensive and pricey, shoes and jewelry in particular.
I found this very wried… i also don’t like spending much on my flats… i wear them to death and then get rid of them. and i can’t if I spend very much on them.
I used to buy cheap underwear, but now I´ll spend the equivalent of 45 USD on a pair of underpants. Totally worth it, everything looks better and feels better, and they last forever.
A sales lady said to me that no whites should ever be washed with any whitening washing powder ingredients, because they are COLOURED white. Whitening will turn them grey. The trick to keeping the whites white is to wash with a washing powder meant for coloured clothes and be scrupulous about separating the whites from other laundry.
As a college student, I am frequently strapped for cash, so you would imagine that I spend as little as possible on my clothes. I’m certainly limited by my budget, but I loathe the idea of buying cheap clothing that I know will fall apart after a few wears. (In high school, I had to purchase a new wardrobe every year–appalling!) I want to buy high-quality items, but I’m always wary of committing to a purchase because I’m just so selective! It’s incredible how much my buying patterns have changed over the past few years alone.
When I save:
T-shirts: In an effort to hone my style and dress more professionally, I made a style commitment to myself last year that I would stop wearing t-shirts except to sleep or work out. So far it has gone quite well, and I don’t waste money on tissue-paper tees anymore!
Jeans: I’ve lucked out here: the only jeans that really fit me happen to come from Target for $25 and usually last me several years, after which point they can be converted into shorts.
Shoes: Thanks to the purchasing habits of my teen years, I have a considerable (for me) collection of high heels that I hardly ever wear but adore nevertheless, several pairs of assorted tennis shoes, and something like six or seven pairs of flats that get nearly daily wear. The flats wear out quickly–it’s something about the way I walk plus the fact that women’s shoes just aren’t all that durable–so I watch for sales and rarely spend above $30 for replacements, usually around $15-20 with the expectation that they will last around a year.
Jewelry: Again, I would love to buy the nice stuff, but because I convince myself that one day I will, I never buy any jewelry at all! Unless, of course, I absolutely love it and it’s under $20.
Cardigans: I can rarely find any that I like on me, even though I love the look on others. On the rare occasion that I find one that I like, I always manage to talk myself out of the purchase. Somehow, spending $30+ seems a waste…but when cardigan season comes along, I always regret it. I can’t figure it out!
Skirts: My pickiness wins in this case, since I wear them only occasionally and love the ones I already own. I’m on the lookout for a navy, natural-waist, full skirt and a high-waisted black pencil skirt. But I haven’t bought a new skirt in years!
Underwear: Yeah, I’m a Hanes girl. I just can’t be bothered to spend more on matching sets, although that might be changing–more on that later. Anyway, I’ve never found anything more comfortable than 100% cotton bikinis.
When I spend:
Blouses: Usually I prefer to buy natural fibers, but I’ve found that’s virtually impossible in this day and age when operating on a budget, so I settle for nice synthetics that I know I will hang on to for years to come. I scout out more expensive styles in advance and wait for sales before striking. Otherwise, I sew my own blouses. It’s easier to get a good fit when I sew for myself, but no cheaper that purchasing ready-to-wear. I rarely pay above $50 for a blouse or its components, but when I do, I know that it’s something I’ll be wearing for a long time.
Boots: At least, this is what I tell myself. I haven’t been able to find suitable wide-calf boots that I like and that fall comfortably within my budget as of yet–at least, not ones that haven’t already sold out. :/
Dresses: It’s irrational, considering how seldom I wear dresses compared to other garments in my wardrobe, but I can’t help myself when I find a stunning dress that actually fits! In this case, though, it’s not the expense but the frivolity (in that they’re unworn) that makes these purchases a splurge.
Bras: I recently discovered my bra size and have had to do a complete overhaul. 32GG/32H bras do not come cheap if you buy full-price, and until I learned the ropes and got over my fear of buying online, I spent quite a lot on replacement bras. The enticing colors and patterns, the new-found comfort of a well-fitting bra–I feel as though I’ve spent a small fortune on lingerie this past year! Including, on some occasions, paying up to $20 on matching undies, until I realized that I don’t really care about matching every day. While I’m confident I haven’t overspent as I’m in no debt and each purchase has brought me immense (and slightly guilty) pleasure, I’m not accustomed to spending like this on undergarments. I’ll consider it a splurge.
Coats/Jackets: It’s commonly acknowledged amongst my friends that I own too few for the climate of my college, but more than enough for my home climate of SoCal. My down winter coat is wonderful, if lacking in style. I have no interim (fall/spring; transition, if you will) weather jackets. It’s so hard for me to find a fit that is even remotely acceptable, let alone in a flattering style. I have money set aside expressly for the purpose of buying a stylish wool coat for winter weather, but I’m terrified of investing in the wrong one! Same goes for fall/spring jackets. I’m just so difficult to please.
Well! That was much more comprehensive than I had intended. Apparently, my wish to save & splurge on high-quality essentials like winter boots, or a wool coat, alongside my fear that I may be overspending on something that doesn’t really fit into my style aesthetic, and the incredible amount of trouble I have finding anything that fits (my measurements are utterly non-standardly hourglass-y) often prevents me from making any purchases at all!
Pretty much the only thing I would currently splurge for apart from bras (and even there I prefer to buy brands and cuts I know work when they’re on sale online, but I would splurge a little on a really good quality bra or two) would be truly high waisted trousers that sit with the waistband at my waist and the whole waistband *above* my hips so as not to squash them.
Sal, since so many people like them, how about a roundup of cheap ballet flats that are comfy (I like soft leather ones that conform to my feet.)
Will do!
I buy brand name tees (Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft) but never for full price. I let them get down around $10 and then pick my favorite colors among those that are left. Same way with jeans, $25 is my sweet spot, but I’ll pay $35.
I refuse to spend big money on underwear, socks, or anything that looks cheaply constructed.
Shoes have to stay under $100 for anything but boots. I often buy pricier ones ($100-@$200 MSRP), but again, on sale/discount.
I will spend more money on jackets and purses because I generally only get one of each and use it for years and years.
I LOVE costume jewelry, $100 is a huge stretch for me, I prefer pieces under $35. Like you, I love shiny things and variety so it doesn’t make sense to invest in a necklace that is several thousand dollars and then have it sit around most of the time.
I spend money on bras because a 36DDD (with no exposed elastic) is hard to find. And wacoal never ever ever goes on sale. *grumble* So %70+ each it is. I usually get about a year out of 2 bras…: /
Recently though, I’ve also started splurging on Butter nailpolish. They are pricey BUT 3 free which makes them far less smelly and better for your nails. So far, I’ve only bought one bottle though, the rest were Christmas gifts. So I suppose that’s an easy splurge. : )
I feel guilty for saying that, but because I make gobbles of money now (I grew up poor), and can afford to buy pretty much anything I want/like. I get how fortunate I am compared to the rest of women who want to look good, so my approach have been to buy what I really like, but fewer items. Or so I try
1. T-shirts. I have to somewhat disagree. In the past five years I bought Target (postpartum) and Old Navy (for a vacation) tees, and I have to say they wear out horribly. It’s the neckline – it stretches and goes all disfigured. I would not wear them to the gym after a few washes. I was recently cleaning out my drawers and found some Nordstrom brand tees from like 7 years ago – I was amazed how much better [than my recent purchases] they looked. Just a bit too short (fashion changed). So, I begrudgingly spent $42 on Three Dots tee at Neiman this week – have not got it in the mail yet. By the way, the $80 Vince t-shirts – tried them all this weekend at Saks – they are all horrible. All of them are not cut to flutter if you have breasts larger than B. I do own a long sleeve T from Vince (the slouchy shoulder type), and it’s ok.
2. Bras. I like comfortable and with protection against nipplitis and side boob. I bought at Target when pregnant, but after being done with breastfeeding, went back to Natori. Amazon often has them on sale. I agree with the Nordstrom fitter suggestion – they are good. I ONLY buy nude color bras. I have no brainpower in the morning to plan ahead for one more step of dressing, so once the bra is on, it must work with whatever top I chose.
3. I splurge on shoes. Just do. I have extra wide feet, and for some reason it is the flats that always hurt my feet, while heels do fine. I almost never buy shoes in wide, though – the brands and models that those come in are usually so awful, I would not want to be caught dead in them… well, I guess I’d be ok to be caught pregnant in wides, but not more! I own a pair of extremely expensive flats (the nude with black cap toe Chanels), and it so happens that this is the only pair that can accommodate my extra wides without hurting them after two hours. The reason I bought them was because I had read in a fashion magazine how one extremely stylish woman was gushing how those flats were always elevating her outfit even if she had worn a pair of yoga pants, and yada-yada. So, I did not really feel the same, but then they are really comfy and lasted for 5 years, so that counts. The only thing about them – I don’t wear them in the rain for the fear of ruining the nude leather. I own other relatively expensive flats, like Cole Haans (off eBay or bought on sale) or Dior (on a huge sale), but they all hurt in after a while at the widest part of my foot. I also have wide calves, and have never been able to find a pair of tall boots that fit and don’t make me look like I have bowed legs, until one day I tried a pair of Stuart Wietzman over the knee stretch boots. They weren’t on sale, so I had a bit of a heavy heart paying MSRP – but I have been wearing them for two years now, and they are climbing in the cost per wear ratings.
4. Handbags. Generally, there is no budget limit, but don’t buy bags often, and usually end up under $300. I only use four bags (including a clutch and a smaller going out bag), two came from Neiman, and the other two from eBay. I am thinking to buy something really fabulous and French-made next time, but to be honest, I just like the look of most Louis/Balenciagas/Longchamps.
5. Panties. Prefer cotton, nude, white, or black briefs/hipsters. Not only I never match to bras (I match to pants/skirts – does not it make more sense?), I don’t even own matching sets. Cheap will do, as long as they don’t ride up my crack.
6. Swimwear. That’s a hot one right now, since I have just booked my first vacation after having my no longer little one. I decided to splurge, but scaled back my initial plan of buying two sets in the same color to just one (quality, not quantity). Since I like bra tops and hate halters, I have chosen carefully among select brands that offer separates, and went with Tommy Bahama. I also splurged on a swimsuit about 10 years ago (when I was 20 lb lighter), and not only I wore quite a bit of out of it, the pictures are very nice.
7. Outerwear. I read everywhere you are supposed to splurge, but I don’t feel like it. I got my main coat at J. Crew on sale, and it was not that expensive (and turns out it’s the same coat the gal from Youlookfab got). Then I got a puffer coat from Uniqlo real cheap, and I love it. My trench is old and cheap, but I kind of like it. So, despite the dreams of going into the Burberry store one day and finding the perfect trench, and then ordering it custom in petite, I have no real plans of doing it.
8. Clothing. I will pay extra premium for good fabric and petite sizing, especially, for suits/jackets. Nice thick silk crepe de chine or georgette, extra fine merino, etc. I wash all of my clothes in the front washer to save on maintenance, and that includes cashmere, wool suits, silk blouses, DVF silk jersey dresses, you name it… Actually, my conclusion is that the more expensive the item (in natural fibers), the better it washes. Generally, buy on sale and stay under $200, or look on eBay for brands that I buy often from (J. Crew, Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor) and know my size.