October! My birthday month. I usually allow myself a little splurge in October but since I haven't really been going anywhere I wanted to resist buying anything new.

 

Then the first weekend of the month came and I got a text from Lydia with a photo of a pair of Marc by Marc Jacobs burgundy buckle up boots. In my size. $60 PLUS 20% off. I did a quick search and found out the boots retailed for $495. I believe they are from Fall 2014. So $48 wasn't bad at all! I had her pick them up for me even though I didn't know when I would actually be able to retrieve them, ha ha. She dropped them off in the middle of the month during a socially distanced visit so I didn't have to wait long! I made us some homemade bagels and Chocolate Coconut Blondies...YUM!

I also ordered a new pair of pajamas from Honeydew Intimates with my Shopbop gift cards and 15% off birthday coupon. They are SO comfy I'm already planning on getting another pair when they go on sale!

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
2. Burberry beaded owl sweater via eBay ($75, retail $2950 in 2012)
3. Stella McCartney Wild Cat Skinny Ankle Jeans via eBay ($15 after ad money, retail $735)
4. Ba&sh "Perla" dress in Green Light c/o Shopbop ($236.25, retail $630)
5. Nili Lotan Cashmere Abbey Sweater c/o Shopbop ($133.88, retail $525) 
6. Mickey Mouse Football Jersey in purple ($28; used gift card)
7. Disney State Fair Connecticut Tee ($17.47; used gift card)
   

Basics:

1. J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
2. Madewell Camp Shorts in Faded Rosebud c/o Shopbop ($35, retail $50)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
2. Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99) 
3. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Faye' embellished leather sandals via Net-a-Porter Sale ($112, retail $289; used side hustle money)
   
4. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clio' leopard-print leather slingback sandals via Net-a-Porter Sale ($74, retail $185; used side hustle money)
5. *NEW* Marc by Marc Jacobs buckle boot in burgundy via Cocos On the Green ($48, retail $495; used ad money)
   

Handbags:

1. Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158) 
2. 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Medium shoulder bag in Nile Shark Embossed Leather via Bag, Borrow or Steal ($220, retail $895)
   

 Accessories:

1. Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
2. Shashi Princess Leia Necklace c/o Shopbop ($55)

Activewear/Loungewear:

1. SPANX Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings in Indigo Leopard c/o Shopbop ($68)
2. *NEW!* Honeydew Intimates Star Seeker PJ Set in Natural Leopard c/o Shopbop ($54, $34 after coupon)
   

Gifted from Brands:

1. AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
2. AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)
3. AUrate Gold Twist Huggie Earrings (retail $80)
4. AUrate Stackable Twist Ring (retail $80)
5. AUrate Mini Infinity Ring (retail $70)

Total spent in October: $0

Total spent in 2020: $324.83

After quite a busy shopping August I tried to behave in September. Even though I didn't spend "actual money" in August (only blog advertising money and Shopbop gift cards) I wanted to slow down a bit.

 

I was doing well until the end of the month and a Bag, Borrow or Steal Instagram ad about their 30% off sale ending. I figured I would check on the off chance they had one of the bags I was looking for. They didn't. But I decided to do a quick look to see what else there was and I found it...the perfect 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli bag. It was shark textured and in a beautiful teal. I debated buying it all day and finally broke down at 9pm. The bag retailed for $895 when it was new, they were selling it for $350 but it was on sale for $315 AND the 30% off coupon brought it down to $220. How could I resist?!

 

Remember when Pashli bags were all the rage? I definitely lusted over them back in the old blogging days. I also posted one in a closet-worthy post in March 2020. Funny how it took me 7+ years to get my hands on one. But just goes to show, if you like something you won't care if it's an "It Bag" or not so you can wait years to add it to your closet at a fraction of the original price. It's arriving some time today so hopefully it's just as beautiful in person and the condition is "gently used" with not many signs of wear like the site claimed!

P.S. Shout-out to Louise from the Sex and the City movie. I always think of her when I browse BBS, haha!

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
2. Burberry beaded owl sweater via eBay ($75, retail $2950 in 2012)
3. Stella McCartney Wild Cat Skinny Ankle Jeans via eBay ($15 after ad money, retail $735)
4. Ba&sh "Perla" dress in Green Light c/o Shopbop ($236.25, retail $630)
5. Nili Lotan Cashmere Abbey Sweater c/o Shopbop ($133.88, retail $525) 
6. Mickey Mouse Football Jersey in purple ($28, used gift card)
7. Disney State Fair Connecticut Tee ($17.47, used gift card)
   

Basics:

1. J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
2. Madewell Camp Shorts in Faded Rosebud c/o Shopbop ($35, retail $50)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
2. Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99) 
3. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Faye' embellished leather sandals via Net-a-Porter Sale ($112, retail $289, used side hustle money)
   
4. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clio' leopard-print leather slingback sandals via Net-a-Porter Sale ($74, retail $185, used side hustle money)
   

Handbags:

1. Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158) 
2. *NEW!* 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Medium shoulder bag in Nile Shark Embossed Leather via Bag, Borrow or Steal ($220, retail $895)
   

 Accessories:

1. Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
2. Shashi Princess Leia Necklace c/o Shopbop ($55)

Activewear:

1. SPANX Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings in Indigo Leopard c/o Shopbop ($68)

Gifted from Brands:

1. AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
2. AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)
3. AUrate Gold Twist Huggie Earrings (retail $80)
4. AUrate Stackable Twist Ring (retail $80)
5. AUrate Mini Infinity Ring (retail $70)

Total spent in September: $220

Total spent in 2020: $324.83

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
2. *NEW!* Burberry beaded owl sweater via eBay ($75, retail $2950 in 2012)
3. *NEW!* Stella McCartney Wild Cat Skinny Ankle Jeans via eBay ($15 after ad money, retail $735)
   

Basics:

1. J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)
2. *NEW!*  Madewell Camp Shorts in Faded Rosebud c/o Shopbop ($35, retail $50)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
2. Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99)

Accessories:

1. Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
2. Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158)
3. *NEW!*  Shashi Princess Leia Necklace c/o Shopbop ($55)

Activewear:

1. *NEW!* SPANX Look At Me Now Seamless Leggings in Indigo Leopard c/o Shopbop ($68)

Gifted from Brands:

1. AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
2. AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)

Total spent in May: $90

Total spent in 2020: $104.83

I received 2 pieces from a brand last month and was waiting to share them until this month since I was supposed to do a blog post featuring them. However, that post has now been postponed due to COVD-19. It will probably be a bit before you see them in an outfit post and I wanted to share them! AUrate is still shipping items with a very stringent policy on how to keep everything safe.


THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. FARM Rio Amazonian Ombre Mini Wrap Dress c/o Shopbop ($127.50, retail $170)
   

Basics:

1. J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny Leg Jean in Moral ($0 after $25 credit & ad money, retail $228)

Shoes:

1. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Clara' Sandal c/o Shopbop ($221.25, retail $295)
2. Sperry Rio Aqua Slip-On Sneaker ($14.83 via DSW, retail $64.99)

Accessories:

1. Ray Ban 'Erika' Sunglasses in Havana c/o Shopbop (retail $163)
2. Madewell Medium Slim Saddle Bag c/o Shopbop ($118.50, retail $158)

Gifted from Brands:

1. *NEW!* AUrate Pearl Studs in Rose Gold (retail $150)
2. *NEW!* AUrate Medium Chain Bracelet in Rose Gold (retail $50)

Total spent in April: $0

Total spent in 2020: $14.83

Well, we made it. My final wardrobe update for 2019! I did a pretty good job this year at not spending too much on clothes. I still bought a few things I haven't worn much (the blazers) but I love them all the same.  I still have to wear the black polka dot dress from Joie but I think I have an appropriate occasion coming up so stay tuned!

The champion of my 2019 spending is my Autumn Cashmere sweater. It's only been on the blog 4 times but I've worn it much more than that since buying it in January. The mark of a good wardrobe item is if it brings you joy and this sweater does that. Every time I wear it my mood is instantly lifted!

 I got a few clothing items as gifts for Christmas this year and that's all I added to my closet!



THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
6. Joie 'Johnesha' black polka dot tiered dress ($39.99 via Marshalls, $398 retail)
7. Edun red printed silk dress ($25 via eBay, $500+ retail) 
8. Splendid Duke Striped Pullover ($0 c/o Shopbop, on sale for $47, retail $148)
9. *NEW!* rag&bone high rise ankle skinny jean in burgundy  (Christmas Gift) 
10. *NEW!* Ellen Tracy cashmere v-neck sweater in orange (Christmas Gift)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant, Sulfur Harvest Olive ($39 @ Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)
6. Everlane Cotton V in Heather Gray ($0, after $20 credit)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money)  
3. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Apteros' in Crosta Wine ($158 in Athens, used ad money)
4. Ancient Greek Sandals X Gas Bijoux 'Stephanie Charms' in Natural/Red Charms ($254 in Santorini, used ad money)
5. Sam Edelman 'Gigi' ($12.49 via DSW)
6. Restricted Memo Flat ($12.49 via DSW)
7. *NEW!* Everlane Double-Strap Block Heel Sandal in Strawberry (Christmas Gift)

Accessories:

1. Mini Leather Bag (25€ in Italy, used ad money)
2. Olive Leaf + Branch + Pearl Necklace ($50 in Santorini, used ad money)
3. DSW Backpack (free with purchase)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Pearl Necklace c/o AUrate
   

Total spent in December: $0

Total spent in 2019: $245.46

Happy day after Thanksgiving! I hope all my American readers had a great holiday and ate lots of turkey (or no turkey if you're vegetarian!)

This month I added a few pieces to my closet but paid $0 out of pocket! Love when that happens.  Last week Everlane surprised me with a $20 credit and since I couldn't decide between two pairs of jeans ($30 difference in price, haha) I decided to just go for a plain v-neck tee.

I also bought a couple things during Shopbop's Buy More, Save More sale with my store credit from my partnership with them. They should arrive on Monday, hopefully they both fit or I'll be sending them back....sad. It took me HOURS to decide what to get. Funny how even when something is "free" you second guess all your decisions. I had so many things in my cart and Christian helped me whittle it down to boots and a sweater. I'll be on the lookout for a few of the other things I wanted to actually go on sale (more than the 20% off I would have gotten if I bought 4 of the things I wanted)

I still haven't made my Net-a-Porter sale purchase but I will probably buy something next month at the end of the sale.  Right now I have about $75 in Paypal thanks to Ibotta and Survey Junkie and should have a payment from RewardStyle on the way as well. That'll help soften the blow if/when I splurge on something.

UPDATE: Sadly had to return the boots as they were a lot chunkier than I expected and I didn't like how they looked on my feet.

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
6. Joie 'Johnesha' black polka dot tiered dress ($39.99 via Marshalls, $398 retail)
7. Edun red printed silk dress ($25 via eBay, $500+ retail) 
8. *NEW!* Splendid Duke Striped Pullover ($0 c/o Shopbop, on sale for $47, retail $148)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant, Sulfur Harvest Olive ($39 @ Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)
6. *NEW!* Everlane Cotton V in Heather Gray ($0, after $20 credit)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money)  
3. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Apteros' in Crosta Wine ($158 in Athens, used ad money)
4. Ancient Greek Sandals X Gas Bijoux 'Stephanie Charms' in Natural/Red Charms ($254 in Santorini, used ad money)
5. Sam Edelman 'Gigi' ($12.49 via DSW)
6. Restricted Memo Flat ($12.49 via DSW)

Accessories:

1. Mini Leather Bag (25€ in Italy, used ad money)
2. Olive Leaf + Branch + Pearl Necklace ($50 in Santorini, used ad money)
3. DSW Backpack (free with purchase)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Pearl Necklace c/o AUrate
   

Total spent in November: $0

Total spent in 2019: $245.46

UPDATE: I should never pre-write these a week before the month is over. I made a couple purchases in last few days. One hasn't arrived yet so I'll include it next month.

I made a DSW purchase with a bunch of store credits and coupons. I bought a pair of purple suede Sam Edelman sandals which will hopefully replace my current pair that is slowly disintegrating (they're SUPER old.) Sadly they don't make the exact same style anymore but this one is similar.  I also bough a cute pair of black flats to take advantage of a 25% off 2 pairs deal and wound up essentially getting those free after my $10 and 2 $5 credits. My purchase also got me a free backpack so I think I did pretty well.

UPDATE 2: I decided to add this to October since it arrived on November 1st! As I was preparing a blog post for a wedding look I wore, I came across a dress I've been wanting since 2012 (the blog proof) for $32 on eBay. I followed it and the next day the seller sent an offer of $25 for it, so I HAD to get it after texting a couple friends for the nudge I needed - aka confirmation that it was a good purchase. I can't remember the retail price from 2012 but I would say it was at least $500.  Unfortunately I found out that Edun went out of business last year, which is such a shame because it was a sustainable brand and promoted artists in Africa. Now I'll cherish my 3 pieces more (and maybe buy some more secondhand if I see anything good)

View this post on Instagram

Is there anything better than finding a dress (or anything) you’ve wanted for 7.5 years for only $25?! I think not. Gotta love @ebayfashion for amazing finds! Found this @edun dress for wayyy under its original retail price. #ebayfinds #ebaysteals #edun #secondhand #foundonebay Shop more Edun including this same dress! http://liketk.it/2Gqd2 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKunder100

A post shared by Megan | Closet Fashionista (@closet_fashion) on Nov 1, 2019 at 11:13am PDT

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Original Copy:

I made it through October without shopping! It helps that I had 3 super busy weekends at the beginning of the month so I couldn't really shop in store. I also had less extra money this month thanks to taking half of September off for my honeymoon. (the perils of freelancing and not having paid vacation!) I've been pretty good at resisting online shopping too. I just fill up carts and then abandon them to get the shopping bug out. Anyone else do that or is it just me?

I'm hoping to keep this up through the end of the year, but we'll see if any of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales get me! Or Net-a-Porter's Winter sale...always dangerous when that pops up! I will have some Shopbop money coming in soon thanks to my temporary partnership with them but am not sure if I'll wait until the few months is over to buy something big, or just a few things here and there.

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
6. Joie 'Johnesha' black polka dot tiered dress ($39.99 via Marshalls, $398 retail)
7. *NEW!* Edun red printed silk dress ($25 via eBay, $500+ retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant, Sulfur Harvest Olive ($39 @ Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money)  
3. Ancient Greek Sandals 'Apteros' in Crosta Wine ($158 in Athens, used ad money)
4. Ancient Greek Sandals X Gas Bijoux 'Stephanie Charms' in Natural/Red Charms ($254 in Santorini, used ad money)
5. *NEW!* Sam Edelman 'Gigi' ($12.49 via DSW)
6. *NEW!* Restricted Memo Flat ($12.49 via DSW)

Accessories:

1. Mini Leather Bag (25€ in Italy, used ad money)
2. Olive Leaf + Branch + Pearl Necklace ($50 in Santorini, used ad money)
3. *NEW!* DSW Backpack (free with purchase)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Pearl Necklace c/o AUrate
   

Total spent in October: $49.98

Total spent in 2019: $245.46

Easing back into the blog after getting back from our honeymoon with my September wardrobe update.  I was gone half the month on our honeymoon so it was pretty easy to not shop - apart from the couple things on my list to buy in Europe.  Luckily I had a surge in blog revenue before we left so that covered what I bought on the trip!



I only intended to buy one pair of Ancient Greek Sandals on my trip but ended up with 2. I bought the first pair in Santorini for 30% off (WOO!) and still had to visit the new Ancient Greek Sandals flagship store in Athens and ended up with a pair there too. But this is the only actual AGS dedicated store so how could I not?  The first pair is part of their yearly limited edition collaboration. This year it was with GAS Bijoux so the sandals have cute little charms on them! The second pair is totally different from what I usually buy because they're slides instead of ones with clasps (I prefer those for walking)

I almost broke down and bought my Gucci Marmont purse in Florence because they had the color I want still in stock (no other stores did.) But I don't have enough saved up yet so I'll keep saving and buy it used once I can. To heal the pain I bought a cute little leather purse at one of those leather shops. Probably not the best quality but it's adorable!

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Intarsia Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, used Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout Resale, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
6. Joie 'Johnesha' black polka dot tiered dress ($39.99 via Marshalls, $398 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant in Sulfur Harvest Olive - also here ($39 via Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money)  
3. *NEW!*  Ancient Greek Sandals 'Apteros' in Crosta Wine ($158 in Athens, used ad money)
4. *NEW!*  Ancient Greek Sandals X Gas Bijoux 'Stephanie Charms' in Natural/Red Charms ($254 in Santorini, used ad money)

Accessories:

1. *NEW!* Mini Leather Bag (25€ in Italy, used ad money)
2. *NEW!* Olive Leaf + Branch + Pearl Necklace ($50 in Santorini, used ad money)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Simple Pearl Necklace c/o AUrate
   

Total spent in September: $0

Total spent in 2019: $195.49

Posting my wardrobe update a little early this month because I have a special post to share later in the week (a little hint in this post!)  Fingers crossed I don't make any new purchases between now and then!


I went to Marshalls earlier in the month not looking to buy anything but randomly stumbled upon a really cute black tiered polka dot dress by Joie. I tried it on "just for fun" and had to buy it because it was 90% off the retail price of $398! My mom thinks it's too dark to wear to my cousin's wedding in October, but I think I might to bring it on my honeymoon next month and dress it down with some flat sandals. I also didn't realize until after I got home that it's like a little black dress version of my wedding dress, so funny! What do we think, should I keep it?

I was able to resist buying things in Roundabout's flash sale where clothes and shoes were 80% off.  It wasn't for lack of trying, though. They had this pair of Mary Katrantzou pants NWT for $46 but they were slightly too tight on me, UGH! And they had the Dior J'adore slingback flats but they were only 10% off, one of the few items not on major sale...OF COURSE. I got all the way to checkout with them only to find out they weren't $120 like I thought but $535.



THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Intarsia Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, used Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout Resale, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
6. *NEW* Joie 'Johnesha' black polka dot tiered dress ($39.99 via Marshalls, $398 retail)

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant in Sulfur Harvest Olive - also here ($39 via Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 

Accessories:

1.  None Yet

Gifted from Brands:

1. *NEW!* Simple Pearl Necklace c/o AUrate
   

Total spent in August: $39.99

Total spent in 2019: $195.49

I had a successful no shopping month! I did buy some nail polish during Net-a-Porter's Flash Beauty Sale but I used advertising money on it so it doesn't count, ha ha. Plus that's beauty, not fashion.  I still haven't bought anything in the Net-a-Porter End of Season Sale, trying super hard to resist so we'll see if I make it through the last couple weeks.  

I also have to keep our honeymoon in September in mind. I want to buy another pair of Ancient Greek Sandals while we're in Greece (because 6 pairs isn't enough, ha ha!) and I was hoping to buy something in Italy as well. I won't have enough saved up for my teal Gucci Marmont bag by then so we'll see what I do.


THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. Autumn Cashmere Landscape Intarsia Cashmere Crew ($240, retail $440, used Christmas + ad money)
2. Sandro burgundy double breasted blazer ($36 via Roundabout Resale, retail ~$500)
3. Massimo Dutti white wool blazer ($19 via Roundabout Resale, retail $130-$250)
4. Rag & Bone 'Jackie' purple leather trimmed wool jacket ($32 via Roundabout Resale, retail $495)
5. eight sixty floral camisole dress ($7 via eBay, used ad money)
   

Basics:

1. J.Crew Tissue Turtleneck ($5, retail $30, used gift card)
2. J.Crew Ribbed flare-sleeve turtleneck ($8, retail $45, used gift card)
3. J.Crew Midrise skinny jean in velvet ($10, retail $80, used gift card)
4. AG Jeans 'The Evan' pleated linen pant in Sulfur Harvest Olive - also here ($39 via Marshalls, $178 retail) 
5. Splendid Arabesque Cargo Short in Antique Military Olive ($29.99 via Marshalls, $108 retail)

Shoes:

1. Lanvin Studded Suede 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 
2. Lanvin Studded Leather 'City' Sandals ($60 via The RealReal, $790 retail, used ad money) 

Accessories:

1.  None Yet

Gifted from Brands:

1. None Yet
   

Total spent in July: $0

Total spent in 2019: $155.5

I've been good this month and only added a gifted necklace to my closet! Hopefully I can keep it up in December but I may buy something in the Net-a-Porter Sale if something on my wish list gets low enough!



THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. J. Crew 'Harlow' cardigan sweater in star print ($15, $90 retail, used gift card)
2. Robert Rodriguez tonal paisley chiffon dress via Roundabout ($16.80, $348 retail) 
3. Mickey Baseball Tee via Disney Character Warehouse ($14.99, used gift card)
4. Mickey Metallic Tank via Disney Character Warehouse ($7.99, used gift card) 
5. Wedding Dress - Needle & Thread Mirage tiered embellished tulle dress via Net-a-Porter ($206, retail $405, used ad money) 

Basics:

1. Napa Valley Long Sleeve Solid Mock Neck Sweater in Dark Ruby ($8.49 via Boscovs, retail $36)
2. Napa Valley Long Sleeve Solid Mock Neck Sweater in Dark Teal ($8.49 via Boscovs, retail $36) 
3. Vince Camuto Davilla ankle boot via Poshmark ($45, used ad money)

Shoes:

1. Franco Sarto 'Dolly' mule in navy via DSW ($20, $80 retail)
2. Wedding Shoes - Nicholas Kirkwood Lola embellished Lurex sandals via  Net-a-Porter ($326, retail $815) 

Bags:

1. Dooney & Bourke 2017 Sorcerer Mickey Disney Shopper Tote via eBay ($200, used ad money & work bonus)

Accessories:

1. Wedding Band Sofia Zakia Altair Ring via Catbird ($562, retail $625)
2. Disney Mickey Mouse Pearl Earrings via Boscov's ($36 after $15 gift card and 15% off coupon, retail $120)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Azaggi Jewelry Round Crescent Moon necklace w/ CZs
2. Azaggi Jewelry Tiny Owl necklace
3. oNecklace Two Heart Necklace
4. *NEW!* oNecklace Snowflake Necklace

Total spent in November: $0

Total spent in 2018:  $89.78
(not counting wedding shoes + band)

I misbehaved this month and did some shopping when I was invited to a preview of the new Boscov's location in Milford! I got a couple sweaters and cute pearl Mickey earrings! It could have been a lot worse because they have such great deals, so I'm still counting it as a win.

I also bought a couple clothing items on my birthday trip to Disney. But I used gift money on those and am not including them in this update. I got an Epcot Food & Wine Festival tee, Toy Story Land sweatshirt and an Eve hoodie (I bought Christian the matching Wall-E hoodie.)

And I I FINALLY found my backup pair of Vince Camuto Davilla ankle boots on Poshmark. I had to buy them again because my current ones are dying after being VERY loved for 4 years. They've been all over the world and walked hundreds (seriously, at least 100) of miles with me. I used ad money that was just added to my PayPal. Perfect!



THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. J. Crew 'Harlow' cardigan sweater in star print ($15, $90 retail, used gift card)
2. Robert Rodriguez tonal paisley chiffon dress via Roundabout ($16.80, $348 retail) 
3. Mickey Baseball Tee via Disney Character Warehouse ($14.99, used gift card)
4. Mickey Metallic Tank via Disney Character Warehouse ($7.99, used gift card) 
5. Wedding Dress - Needle & Thread Mirage tiered embellished tulle dress via Net-a-Porter ($206, retail $405, used ad money) 

Basics:

1. *NEW!* Napa Valley Long Sleeve Solid Mock Neck Sweater in Dark Ruby ($8.49 via Boscovs, retail $36)
2. *NEW!* Napa Valley Long Sleeve Solid Mock Neck Sweater in Dark Teal ($8.49 via Boscovs, retail $36) 
3. *NEW!* Vince Camuto Davilla ankle boot via Poshmark ($45, used ad money)

Shoes:

1. Franco Sarto 'Dolly' mule in navy via DSW ($20, $80 retail)
2. Wedding Shoes - Nicholas Kirkwood Lola embellished Lurex sandals via  Net-a-Porter ($326, retail $815) 

Bags:

1. Dooney & Bourke 2017 Sorcerer Mickey Disney Shopper Tote via eBay ($200, used ad money & work bonus)

Accessories:

1. Wedding Band Sofia Zakia Altair Ring via Catbird ($562, retail $625)
2. *NEW!* Disney Mickey Mouse Pearl Earrings via Boscov's ($36 after $15 gift card and 15% off coupon, retail $120)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Azaggi Jewelry Round Crescent Moon necklace w/ CZs
2. Azaggi Jewelry Tiny Owl necklace
3. oNecklace Two Heart Necklace

Total spent in October: $52.98

Total spent in 2018:  $89.78
(not counting wedding shoes + band)

I bought 1 thing this month but it's something I've wanted for over a year now. I originally saw this Dooney and Bourke 2017 Disney Shopper Tote when I went to Disney in June 2017 but resisted buying because it was $268 and I "didn't need it that bad even though it's my favorite color and has Sorcerer Mickey (my fav) all over it." Fast forward months and months and I couldn't stop thinking about it. Thus the eBay search began. It was a special bag only available in 2017 so it's pretty hard to find for under it's original retail price. Luckily I found this one for $200 and I had recently gotten a small work bonus and had some ad money in PayPal so I hit Bid and crossed my fingers! This baby is definitely coming with my on my birthday trip to Disney in October! Sadly it will be my last Disney trip for a while because my Annual Pass expires in December and I have a mortgage to worry about and a honeymoon to save up for.



THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. J. Crew 'Harlow' cardigan sweater in star print ($15, $90 retail, used gift card)
2. Robert Rodriguez tonal paisley chiffon dress via Roundabout ($16.80, $348 retail) 
3. Mickey Baseball Tee via Disney Character Warehouse ($14.99, used gift card)
4. Mickey Metallic Tank via Disney Character Warehouse ($7.99, used gift card) 
5. WEDDING DRESS! via Net-a-Porter ($206, retail $405, used ad money) 

Basics:

1. nothing yet

Shoes:

1. Franco Sarto 'Dolly' mule in navy via DSW ($20, $80 retail)
2. WEDDING SHOES! via  Net-a-Porter ($326, retail $815) 

Bags:

1. *NEW!* Dooney & Bourke 2017 Sorcerer Mickey Disney Shopper Tote via eBay ($200, used ad money & work bonus)

Accessories:

1. Sofia Zakia Wedding Band (will reveal which one after the wedding)

Gifted from Brands:

1. Azaggi Jewelry Round Crescent Moon necklace w/ CZs
2. Azaggi Jewelry Tiny Owl necklace

Total spent in August: $0

Total spent in 2018:  $36.80
(not counting wedding shoes)

I bought two things this month, but sadly you won't be seeing them until after my wedding. Yep. I found my wedding dress (and shoes!) It's not a traditional dress because I'm not doing the traditional wedding thing, but it's super pretty! I got it during Net-a-Porter's sale with an extra 20% off (same with the shoes) and used advertising money on it. BOOM.

But, instead of a blank post this week I decided to show off the closet in my house since you all haven't seen it yet! We've been in our house a little over 2 months and pretty much have it all furnished - except our finished basement. I'll slowly be sharing little pieces on the blog (like my collection wall in the living room.)

THE (modified) RULES

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

MY PROGRESS 

Clothes:

1. J. Crew 'Harlow' cardigan sweater in star print ($15, $90 retail, used gift card)
2. Robert Rodriguez tonal paisley chiffon dress via Roundabout ($16.80, $348 retail) 
3. Mickey Baseball Tee via Disney Character Warehouse ($14.99, used gift card)
4. Mickey Metallic Tank via Disney Character Warehouse ($7.99, used gift card) 
5. *NEW!* WEDDING DRESS! via Net-a-Porter ($206, retail $405, used ad money) 

Basics:

1. nothing yet

Shoes:

1. Franco Sarto 'Dolly' mule in navy via DSW ($20, $80 retail)
2. *NEW!* WEDDING SHOES! via  Net-a-Porter ($326, retail $815) 

Bags:

1. nothing yet

Accessories:

1. nothing yet

Gifted from Brands:

1. Azaggi Jewelry Round Crescent Moon necklace w/ CZs
2. Azaggi Jewelry Tiny Owl necklace

Total spent in July: $0

Total spent in 2018:  $36.80
(not counting wedding shoes)


It's closet time!! I painted the walls purple after we moved in because it's my favorite color and I wanted the room to be extra fun.  Eventually I want to get a whole custom IKEA closet system in here, but for now I'm sticking with pieces I already had from previous closets. You can see my closet when I rented a house with my friend; she let me use the third small room in the house as a closet. When I lived with 2 of my cousins my closet was actually my bedroom/closet because I took the smallest room in the house.

Welcome to the closet room

This dresser is actually a baby changing table if you fold out the top. But now it is a double layer shelf for my accessories and some beauty products

The shoe and sweater corner

Hello, clothes!

Handy dandy Target clothing racks!

This is actually a bookshelf. But it's perfect for shoes!

Shoe shelving from Target!

My lovely IKEA shelves! Super heavy but I love them.

Some family heirlooms

Nail polish collection

Some of my bags

Dresses!

Shirts!

My beloved Chanel bag and fun LV bucket bag!

My daily rings, which have been put on hold since the engagement and for the heat of Summer. But they'll be back on my hands eventually! Just maybe not all at once like I used to wear them.

Sweaters galore! (Should be interesting when I get my bulky winter ones out of storage)

A closet within my closet. This used to be steps up to the attic but now it's a perfect tiered shelving unit for extra shoes and my shoe boxes (I only keep the expensive boxes.) The attic is now accessible through the ceiling

This is the closet in the guest room, I commandeered it for my blazers