My "no spending my own money" streak ended the first week of the month. I went to Marshalls to find a gift for a friend and walked out with that gift plus a pair of GORGEOUS Gianvito Rossi boots for a steal! An expensive steal, but a deal nonetheless. I had actually been wanting a pair of black lace up boots since I love my brown pair (from AGES ago) so much and these are super luxurious. Really the perfect basic. Most of the high end designer shoes they had were in smaller sizes but they also had the slingback Gucci loafers in my size, sadly they were still $500...only $95 cheaper than regular price (here's the men's version.)

I also picked up a Vince tee during The Outnet's clearance sale when I was buying a Christmas gift for someone. What? Two for you...one for me! ;)

However, I didn't buy anything on Black Friday, so proud of myself!!

THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark) 
8. Natalie Martin Printed top ($9.75 via Roundabout, retail $133) 
9. Miss Selfridge sweater dress in rust ($15 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail) 
10. Equipment cat print signature short-sleeve blouse ($80 via eBay; $228 retail, used advertising money) 
11. Banjo & Matilda Trinket embellished sweater ($98 via The Outnet, $375 retail. used birthday money)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 
3. Old Navy black bikini top & bottom ($18, used gift card)
4. Everlane The Ryan Long-Sleeve in black ($20, used advertising money)
5. Highline Collective turtleneck tank in black ($14 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail) 
6. Abercrombie & Fitch  super skinny corduroy pant in blue ($40, used advertising money)
7. Abercrombie & Fitch v-neck sweater in burgundy ($34, used advertising money) 
8. J Brand Maria High Rise skinny jean in Blueberry ($0 via The RealReal, $198 retail)
9. *NEW!* Vince purple stretch-jersey t-shirt ($20 via The Outnet, $135 retail)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 
3. Lanvin Studded Suede Sandals ($316 via Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, $790 retail)
4. Cole Haan 'Chelsea' Leopard Calf Hair Pump ($45 via Roundabout, $386 retail)
5. *NEW!* Gianvito Rossi Suede Finlay Boot ($300 via Marshalls, $1295 retail -  shorter heel version)

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)
2. Pom-Pom Sandals c/o Soma
3. Larimar Bypass ring c/o Larimar Bliss

Total spent in 2016:  $1470.25
(not counting Saint Laurent top, which used Christmas money, or items bought with advertising money)

October was my birthday month and while I normally allow myself to buy an "extravagant" piece of clothing I refrained this year. I did get an Equipment cheetah print blouse I've wanted since it was debuted last year. It's quite hard to find but I spotted one on eBay in a size larger than I usually wear and pounced (pardon the pun.) I used advertising money so it was "free."

And, of course, I wrote this post too early and ended up buying something else. The Outnet's Fall sale started before the month was over and while I was looking for pieces for a post I fell in love with a crazy embellished sweater! I still had birthday money hanging around (after buying my Mickey phone and suitcase) so I used that to buy it. Thanks Mom & Dad!

I also got a pair of brand new J Brand jeans for FREE thanks to a store credit to The RealReal. It was a thank you for doing a survey, so I paid with about 20 minutes of my time. Definitely a fair trade (or unfair from their end.)

Technically I spent $0 this month since I used advertising and birthday money.  I do love loopholes!




THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark) 
8. Natalie Martin Printed top ($9.75 via Roundabout, retail $133) 
9. Miss Selfridge sweater dress in rust ($15 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail) 
10. *NEW!* Equipment cat print signature short-sleeve blouse ($80 via eBay; $228 retail, used advertising money) 
11. *NEW!* Banjo & Matilda Trinket embellished sweater ($98 via The Outnet, $375 retail. used birthday money)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 
3. Old Navy black bikini top & bottom ($18, used gift card)
4. Everlane The Ryan Long-Sleeve in black ($20, used advertising money)
5. Highline Collective turtleneck tank in black ($14 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail) 
6. Abercrombie & Fitch  super skinny corduroy pant in blue ($40, used advertising money)
7. Abercrombie & Fitch v-neck sweater in burgundy ($34, used advertising money) 
8. *NEW!* J Brand Maria High Rise skinny jean in Blueberry ($0 via The RealReal, $198 retail)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 
3. Lanvin Studded Suede Sandals ($316 via Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, $790 retail)
4. Cole Haan 'Chelsea' Leopard Calf Hair Pump ($45 via Roundabout, $386 retail)

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)
2. Pom-Pom Sandals c/o Soma
3. Larimar Bypass ring c/o Larimar Bliss

Total spent in 2016:  $1150.25
(not counting Saint Laurent top, which used Christmas money, or items bought with advertising money)

This month I had a big chunk of advertising (and side hustle) money burning a hole in my pocket. I used a LOT of self control and only made one purchase with it - an order from Abercrombie during their Labor Day sale. I'm hoping to save the rest of it to pay for my portion of an airbnb for London this New Years! But who knows, something crazy may catch my eye and I'll be badddddd.




THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark) 
8. Natalie Martin Printed top ($9.75 via Roundabout, retail $133) 
9. Miss Selfridge sweater dress in rust ($15 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 
3. Old Navy black bikini top & bottom ($18, used gift card)
4. Everlane The Ryan Long-Sleeve in black ($20, used advertising money)
5. Highline Collective turtleneck tank in black ($14 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail) 
6. *NEW!* Abercrombie & Fitch  super skinny corduroy pant in blue ($40, used advertising money)
7. *NEW!* Abercrombie & Fitch v-neck sweater in burgundy ($34, used advertising money)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 
3. Lanvin Studded Suede Sandals ($316 via Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, $790 retail)
4. Cole Haan 'Chelsea' Leopard Calf Hair Pump ($45 via Roundabout, $ retail)

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)
2. *NEW!* Pom-Pom Sandals c/o Soma
3. *NEW!* Larimar Bypass ring c/o Larimar Bliss

Total spent in 2016:  $1150.25
(not counting Saint Laurent top which used Christmas money and items bought with advertising money)

Once again I couldn't resist a sale! I ran into Roundabout for a few minutes earlier in the month to bring in some items and it just happened to be the end of their sale, so it was 75% off clothes and 60% off shoes and accessories. I scored a pair of Cole Haan pumps that I had tried on almost every time I've visited the store. I also got a fun printed green tank for only $9.75 (it was brand new with tags!)

I also used some advertising money to buy a couple pieces for Fall. A black cashmere sweater and long sleeve tee from Everlane. I've been wanting both for quite some time, especially since I got my crazy Proenza Schouler pants, so it was the perfect time! Sadly the sweater is back-ordered until October, but I likely won't need it until then anyway.*

Finally I stopped by Lord and Taylor last week because I had a 25% off clearance coupon. I bought a dress and tank for $29 total! Woohoo!

*I was emailed last night and told the sweater is out of stock so they canceled that part of my order. Such a shame since that was why I made the whole purchase! Oh well.


THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark) 
8. *NEW!* Natalie Martin Printed top ($9.75 via Roundabout, retail $133) 
9. *NEW!* Miss Selfridge sweater dress in rust ($15 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 
3. Old Navy black bikini top & bottom ($18, used gift card)
4. *NEW!* Everlane The Ryan Long-Sleeve in black ($20, used advertising money)
5. *NEW!* Highline Collective turtleneck tank in black ($14 via Lord & Taylor, $70 retail)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 
3. Lanvin Studded Suede Sandals ($316 via Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, $790 retail)
4. *NEW!* Cole Haan 'Chelsea' Leopard Calf Hair Pump ($45 via Roundabout, $ retail)

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)

Total spent in 2016:  $1150.25
(not counting Saint Laurent top which used Christmas money and items bought with advertising money)

This month's wardrobe update is coming a few days early because I'm off to Aruba today and taking a break from blogging while I'm gone! My goal for July was to not spend any money on clothes since I went a little overboard on entertainment purchases last month. Sadly I failed.

I bought a bathing suit from Old Navy with a gift card, so I didn't break my no spending rule there. What got me was Net-a-Porter's End of Season sale. I almost made it through because the one thing I really wanted (Lanvin sandals I posted here in February) had sold out. But then in the last week of the sale one pair came back in stock in my size and it was an extra 20% off so I pounced. Bye bye $316 and my well-behaved month.



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 
3. *NEW!* Old Navy black bikini top & bottom ($18, used gift card)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 
3. *NEW!* Lanvin Studded Suede Sandals ($316 via Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, $790 retail)

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)

Total spent in 2016:  $1066.50
(not counting Saint Laurent top which used Christmas money)

I made a purchase this month that I almost instantly regretted. I saw an amazing dress on Ashley of SideSmileStyle's instagram and HAD to have it. So I scoured the internet and found it on Poshmark. It was a size medium so I took a chance and unfortunately it is a little big in some spots and tight in others. The colors aren't exactly what I was expecting either, they're a little brighter. Maybe it will grow on me.

Sadly I spent a TON of money on travel related things this month so July has to be a no-shop month, except on my vacation. First, I renewed my annual pass for Universal Orlando. Second I bought tickets to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in London, which means I'm going to London for New Years - WOO! AND a friend and I will be going to see JK Rowling & Eddie Redmayne talk at Carnegie Hall in November before seeing Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them (a week before the movie actually comes out!) Such a bad girl! But that's what I have my "vacation" savings for! I save every month and withdraw when I need to. A good system! :)



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, xmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail) 
7. *NEW* Zara striped knit dress ($35 via Poshmark)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 

Accessories:

1.  Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1. *NEW!* Simple Retro crop top (via Amazon)

Total spent in 2016:  $750.50
(not counting Saint Laurent top which used Christmas money)

I behaved this month and only bought one thing, which I have a good excuse for! 1: It's from my favorite store that used to have a location in Newport but is still open in Boston. 2: It was on "super sale" from $25 to $8.50 and 3: It's my color! Burgundy!

...

I wrote that first paragraph a couple weeks before the end of the month because I was SO SURE I would make it through without buying another thing. How wrong I was. I misbehaved a few days ago and bought some amazing Proenza Schouler pants. BUT, to be fair, I have wanted them since September 2014 and they were an extra 15% off at Yoox (a version of them is still $578 at The Outnet). They should arrive tomorrow and I really hope they fit! But it's probably better that they don't so I have to return them and get the money back ;)

As I say every month: I'll do better in June!!BUT The Net-a-Porter End of Season sale started today, so that could be dangerous!

UPDATE: The pants arrived today and they fit like a glove! Super excited to wear them. Just gotta make sure I wear them A LOT.



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases 
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Multicolor Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, christmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt) 
6. *NEW!* Proenza Schouler Jacquard pants ($247 via Yoox, $1,650+ retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet) 

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing) 

Accessories:

1.  *NEW!* Gemstone Necklace via Geclassics in Boston ($8.50)

Gifted from Brands:

1.  None

Total spent in 2016:  $468.50
(not counting Saint Laurent top which used Christmas money)

Well, I did it. I misbehaved this month and spent way over my monthly budget (I lowered it to $100 this year) to buy a pair of Ancient Greek Sandals I've wanted ever since they were posted on their Instagram.  I was able to get them for 15% off thanks to signing up for Moda Operandi's newsletter, but they were still pricey.  But as it is my favorite brand I think it's okay to splurge once a year on a new pair, right? I'm up to 6 pairs now.

I was also bad and ordered a really cute romper from Gilt. In my defense, it had been in my cart for weeks and I only ordered it after getting a 30% off coupon! So that's kind of good...right?

Last night I went to a Spring shopping event at Clinton Crossing and picked up a couple pieces because I can't resist a good deal! Luckily my mom bought one of them for me because she's awesome! So technically I only bought one thing.



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Multicolor Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, christmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail) 
5. *NEW!* Greylin 'Osten' Open Back Romper ($27 via Gilt)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)
2. *NEW!* Banana Republic 'patch-pocket' shorts ($11 at Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet)

Shoes:

1. *NEW!* Ancient Greek Sandals 'Athanasia' in Croc ($238 via Moda Operandi, $280 retail)
2. *NEW!* J.Crew Raffia Seaside Sandals (Mom bought at Clinton Crossing)

Accessories:

1.  None

Gifted from Brands:

1.  None

I wasn't planning on buying anything this month, but one weekend my mom and I went to Lord and Taylor to kill some time. Always a bad idea! I tried on 5 things and fell in love with a pretty blue shirt dress, luckily it was on sale for $60 and I had a $50 gift card!



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Multicolor Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, christmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52, retail $128) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail) 
4. *NEW!* Cynthia Steffe 'Naomi' feather print shirt dress ($10 via Lord & Taylor, $248 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)

Shoes:

1.  None

Accessories:

1.  None

Gifted from Brands:

1.  None

Funny story. I bought a pair of jeans from Free People this month that looked BLUE but when they came they were DARK GRAY. Just goes to show you that product photos can be misleading. After they came and were a different color I decided to google them and found the same jeans on Bloomingdale's where, surprise surprise, they were shown as gray. Luckily I still like the gray and it's probably better for me to have a color other than blue because I have so many blue jeans. [see comparison photo below for giggles]

Also, apparently I didn't miss Roundabout's final clearance in their sale! It happened a couple weekends ago so Lydia and I took the trip to Westport. I was pretty well behaved and only bought one thing. A beautiful Jason Wu snakeskin blouse! It was brand new with tags and the retail price was $1395. Roundabout's price was $389 but take off 65% and the additional 10% off and it came down to $122. Still expensive, but much easier to handle.  March is going to have to be a no shopping month though since I'm trying to be really good this year!



THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Saint Laurent Multicolor Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, used Christmas money, $2390+ retail)
2. Free People Jax Patched Skinny Jean ($52) 
3. Jason Wu snakeskin pussy bow blouse ($122 via Roundabout, $1395 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)

Shoes:

1.  None

Accessories:

1.  None

Gifted from Brands:

1.  None

Normally my wardrobe updates get wiped clean between Winter and Spring but I think for this year I'll keep it full until 2017. That way I can really keep an eye on what I'm adding to my closet all year. It's easy to get carried away when you only show 6 months of purchases at a time. So we're starting with a clean slate for January's update rather than keeping September - December as well.

Anywhooooo....on to this month's new buy(s)! I ended up not buying anything in Net-a-Porter's End of Season Sale. But not for a lack of trying. I ordered a gorgeous pair of thigh high boots and unfortunately they didn't fit (aka I'm too short for super tall boots) so I had to return them.

After I returned the boots I got a notification from eBay that an item I've been wanting for quite some time was relisted! The Saint Laurent patchwork blouse! It was listed for $599.99 but I got the seller to go down to $350! I had $25 in my PayPal account, $80 from a dress I returned at Christmas AND some Christmas money from my Grandma for the rest. So, technically, it's a Christmas gift, but it's still hard to see the money leave my bank account. (I'll share the full story in a feature post, unless it doesn't fit! It was supposed to arrive on Monday but the snowstorm ruined that so it will be waiting for me when I get home from my vacation.)

I also got a sweater from J.Crew at the outlets, but I used a gift card so it doesn't really count. *wink*




THE (modified) RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. *NEW!* Saint Laurent Multicolor Silk Patchwork Blouse ($350 via eBay, used Christmas money)

Basics:

1. *NEW!* J.Crew Factory colorblock sweater ($24, used gift card)

Shoes:

1.  None

Accessories:

1.  None

Gifted from Brands:

1.  None

No throwback outfit this week since it's New Years Eve and I doubt anyone will be visiting the blog today! Also, it's the last day of the month so that means Wardrobe Update time!  I got a few new things for Christmas, but sadly I think only 1 is definitely staying so I only listed that piece for now. I already returned the two things I picked myself because they didn't look great. I made a replacement order so hopefully the new items are a better fit (literally and figuratively!) They should be delivered this afternoon!

[Update: The Madewell order came in, everything was great! They've been added below]

I'll be heading to Lord & Taylor with my Mom today to return a dress she got me. It's really fun and fits me great but I know it won't get a lot of wear. I decided to keep a pretty tan and white cardigan she picked out. At first I wasn't sure about it since it isn't my usual dark colors, but it's so soft and cozy!

I blame my aunt for my regular spending this month. When I went for my monthly massage we decided to go to some consignment stores in the area. I ended up buying two coats and a pair of loafers. BUT I only spent $50, so not as horrible as it could have been.

Overall I think I did pretty good with spending this year. There were a few months where I fell off the less is more train, but these last few months - excluding December - I really only bought one or two things that enhanced my wardrobe. My best purchases of the year, by far, were the DKNY colorblock cardigan and DKNY romper. Both of them got a ton of wear (on vacations and while at home.)


THE RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. Zara cropped sweater ($49.90, used advertising money)
2. *NEW!* Love Life & Freedom faux shearling jacket ($18 via Consignment Originals)  
3. *NEW!* Za&Za navy and burgundy colorblock coat ($25 via Karma's Closet)
4. *NEW!*  Disney's Bambi by LC Lauren Conrad Graphic Sweatshirt (Christmas gift, Kohl's)
5. *NEW!* Calvin Klein cardigan (Christmas gift, Lord & Taylor)

Basics:

1. Max Studio cardigan (gift from Lydia)
2. Vince Overlay Hem Cashmere Turtleneck ($59.99 via Marshalls, used birthday gift card) 
3. Everlane 'The Cotton V' in navy ($15) 
4. J Brand Mid Rise Photo Ready Super Skinny Jean in Bluebird ($62 via Gilt)
5. *NEW!* Madewell Hexcomb Texture Sweater in hthr spruce (Christmas gift, Madewell)

Shoes:

1. Audrey Brooke over the knee boots ($75 via DSW, birthday gift)
2. *NEW!*Etienne Aigner Loafers in burgundy ($4.50 via Consignment Originals)

Accessories:

1. Emm Kuo 'Westbourne Satchel' in snakeskin & stingray ($295 via Roundabout Resale, regularly $1300)
2. *NEW!* House of Harlow 1960 Sunburst Pendant Necklace (Christmas gift from Lydia) 
3. *NEW!* Madewell Houndstooth Patchwork Scarf (Christmas gift, Madewell)
4. *NEW!* Madewell Ribbed Texting Gloves(Christmas gift, Madewell)
5. *NEW!* Madewell Stonework Drop Necklace (Christmas gift, Madewell)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Mighty Fine Star Wars R2D2 Sweatshirt c/o Kohl's
2. Mighty Fine Star Wars ''The Empire Strikes Back'' Thermal Tee c/o Kohl's
3. Rock & Republic Star Wars Studded Leggings c/o Kohl's
4. Star Wars R2-D2 Pendant c/o Kohl's
5. Simply Vera Vera Wang Faux-Fur Collar Shawl Vest c/o Kohl's
6. LC Lauren Conrad Runway Collection Pleated Velvet Skirt c/o Kohl's
7. Simply Vera Vera Wang Mary Jane Heels c/o Kohl's
8. Candie's Ankle Boots c/o Kohl's
9. Nike Air Max 90 Premium iD sneaker
10. Ann Taylor wrap sweater c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets
11. Charlotte Russe ombre cardigan c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets 
12. UncommonGoods necklace 
13. Onecklace chevron birthstone necklace
14. Onecklace heart midi ring
15. Isabel Marant 'On Plane Collection Necklace' c/o Luisaviaroma
16. *NEW!* Banana Republic Italian Cashmere-Blend Boyfriend Cardigan c/o Westfield Trumbull Mall
17. *NEW!* Forever 21 'May the Force Be With You' top c/o Westfield Trumbull Mall
18. *NEW!* Forever 21 Trust Me I'm a Jedi' bottoms c/o Westfield Trumbull Mall

I was doing such a good job this month...until Roundabout sent an email saying they were having a Chanel sale in their Greenwich location. I usually go to Westport since it's a half hour closer but for Chanel I drove the 45 minutes to check out the other location. Sadly I went on the second day of the sale so there wasn't much Chanel left (just a big oversized sweater for $300, but it wasn't unique enough to warrant spending that much money) Rather than just leaving the store I walked around since I drove all the way. I almost walked out with a pair of Stuart Weitzman calf hair leopard print pumps but then I saw a GORGEOUS green-ish purse and before I knew it I was swiping my credit card. It was double the price of the shoes, but I think it was a better purchase because I don't own many purses and have a TON of animal print shoes.

I was also bad and bought a new pair of J Brand jeans on Gilt because they had a code for 40% off AND free shipping for Black Friday, can't pass that up! I wanted another pair of high rise jeans but they were all sold out in my size so I opted for mid-rise instead.


THE RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. Zara cropped sweater ($49.90, used advertising money)

Basics:

1. Max Studio cardigan (gift from Lydia)
2. *NEW!* Vince Overlay Hem Cashmere Turtleneck ($59.99 via Marshalls, used birthday gift card) 
3. *NEW!* Everlane 'The Cotton V' in navy ($15) 
4. *NEW!* J Brand Mid Rise Photo Ready Super Skinny Jean in Bluebird ($62 via Gilt)

Shoes:

1. Audrey Brooke over the knee boots ($75 via DSW, birthday gift)

Accessories:

1. *NEW!* Emm Kuo 'Westbourne Satchel' in snakeskin & stingray ($295 via Roundabout Resale, regularly $1300)

Other:

Gifted from Brands:

1. Mighty Fine Star Wars R2D2 Sweatshirt c/o Kohl's
2. Mighty Fine Star Wars ''The Empire Strikes Back'' Thermal Tee c/o Kohl's
3. Rock & Republic Star Wars Studded Leggings c/o Kohl's
4. Star Wars R2-D2 Pendant c/o Kohl's
5. Simply Vera Vera Wang Faux-Fur Collar Shawl Vest c/o Kohl's
6. LC Lauren Conrad Runway Collection Pleated Velvet Skirt c/o Kohl's
7. Simply Vera Vera Wang Mary Jane Heels c/o Kohl's
8. Candie's Ankle Boots c/o Kohl's
9. Nike Air Max 90 Premium iD sneaker
10. Ann Taylor wrap sweater c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets
11. Charlotte Russe ombre cardigan c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets 
12. UncommonGoods necklace 
13. *NEW!* Onecklace chevron birthstone necklace
14. *NEW!* Onecklace heart midi ring
15. *NEW!* Isabel Marant 'On Plane Collection Necklace' c/o Luisaviaroma

Another pretty good month, especially seeing as I usually go a little crazy buying birthday gifts for myself. I only bought one thing this month, and I used birthday money from my parents, so yay! I also got a lovely sweater as a gift from Lydia and two other (free) sweaters from an event I went to at Foxwoods. The custom NikeID's I was able to make at RewardStyle's NYFW party also arrived this month!



THE RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. Zara cropped sweater ($49.90, used advertising money)

Basics:

1. *NEW!* Max Studio cardigan (gift from Lydia)

Shoes:

1. *NEW!* Audrey Brooke over the knee boots ($75 via DSW, birthday gift)

Accessories:

Other:

Gifted from Brands:

1. Mighty Fine Star Wars R2D2 Sweatshirt c/o Kohl's
2. Mighty Fine Star Wars ''The Empire Strikes Back'' Thermal Tee c/o Kohl's
3. Rock & Republic Star Wars Studded Leggings c/o Kohl's
4. Star Wars R2-D2 Pendant c/o Kohl's
5. Simply Vera Vera Wang Faux-Fur Collar Shawl Vest c/o Kohl's
6. LC Lauren Conrad Runway Collection Pleated Velvet Skirt c/o Kohl's
7. Simply Vera Vera Wang Mary Jane Heels c/o Kohl's
8. Candie's Ankle Boots c/o Kohl's
9. *NEW!*  Nike Air Max 90 Premium iD sneaker
10. *NEW!* Ann Taylor wrap sweater c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets
11. *NEW!* Charlotte Russe ombre cardigan c/o Foxwoods & Tanger Outlets 
12. *NEW!* UncommonGoods necklace

My wardrobe update list has been reset for the Fall months. Starting with a clean slate is always nice. Let's see how small I can keep my lists for the next six months! While I behaved on the clothing front this month I was a little bad with other purchases. It was also quarterly tax month so I feel very poor, ha ha. The joys of freelancing!

This month I was fortunate enough to get a bunch of fun new items from my Kohl's photoshoot including something that was on my "need for Fall" list: navy heels! I got ankle boots AND pumps, score! I also bought a cropped sweater from Zara to wear with my high waisted jeans. I'd been searching for one for months and this one was really fun, although a bit pricey. I had some advertising money to use though!


THE RULES

1. Be mindful of purchases
2. Quality over quantity
3. Basics are best

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. *NEW!* Zara cropped sweater ($49.90, used advertising money)

Basics:

Shoes:

Accessories:

Other:

Gifted:

1. *NEW!* Mighty Fine Star Wars R2D2 Sweatshirt c/o Kohl's
2. *NEW!* Mighty Fine Star Wars ''The Empire Strikes Back'' Thermal Tee c/o Kohl's
3. *NEW!* Rock & Republic Star Wars Studded Leggings c/o Kohl's
4. *NEW!* Star Wars R2-D2 Pendant c/o Kohl's
5. *NEW!* Simply Vera Vera Wang Faux-Fur Collar Shawl Vest c/o Kohl's
6. *NEW!* LC Lauren Conrad Runway Collection Pleated Velvet Skirt c/o Kohl's
7. *NEW!* Simply Vera Vera Wang Mary Jane Heels c/o Kohl's
8. *NEW!* Candie's Ankle Boots c/o Kohl's