I was trying to persuade a friend to buy a $.47 cent green hat (nearly all of you guessed correctly!) at Old Navy when she confessed why she had to say no. She only buys one accessory and one item of clothing each month. And while the hat was a great bargain, it was not worth $.47 to her.
Her rule – a new year’s resolution which she intends to keep year round – has helped her save hundreds of dollars each month. Shopping is one of her main methods of de-stressing. But with this plan, that has changed.
“Now that I have the pressure of only buying two things a month, nothing looks as appealing to me,” said my friend Sarah. “What if later in the month I find something really amazing?”
I happened to be with her when she found her clothing purchase for March – a cute floral top at H&M that was a throwback to the 70s. Definitely worth it.
The price was $15.90. If the price was particularly low one month did she let herself buy an extra item, I asked. No, because then you get into a gray area that allows you to justify more spending, she said.
I think Sarah’s system is brilliant because it is very clear cut, which takes the emotion out of shopping. Falling in love with clothes does terrible things to your wallet.
My friend’s system does leave room for big splurges, however, because she does not set any price limits. This has not been a problem for her, but it would get me into trouble. One purchase at Nordstrom and I would spend more money than if I let myself buy a few low-cost items each month. But perhaps it will work for you!
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
In reference to your perceived inability to work with your friend’s system because you would spend more than that with one purchase at Nordstrom. I say, avoid Nordstrom. The prices are crazy there! If you are ever truly trying to save money, you would never shop there, especially at full price.
I always hear great things about H&M. I know that if I ever need a business wardrobe again, I am hitting that store.
This would totally work for me and I would not feel bad about buying something at Nordstrom. Their clothes are of excellent quality and I keep them FOREVER. H&M…I shop there too…but I’ve had things from there fall apart within a couple of years. But it’s worth it for basics.
that green hat looks so cute! It would bring more than 47 cents fun.
I find that paying an outrageous amount on a piece of clothing is absurd. When I pay for something on sale, I truly appreciate it more and find that I enjoy wearing it more.
Please tell all about H&M. Never heard of it. I clicked on the link, but I just want a summary of what kinds of clothes it carries (casual? dressy? office?). What are some examples of prices, say a nice work top? Thanks.