How to Shop on a Budget.

Happy Wednesday! I have been wanting to do a post like this for awhile because I’m always shopping on a budget. My dad works in finance so budgeting has always been something I keep in the back of my head. Now that I’m married, Eric and I are really trying to be frugal to save for our future.

Having a blog and a shopping budget is not a great combination. It’s very difficult to keep content fresh and new without breaking the bank. I’m sure some of my blogger girlies can relate! Because Eric and I are really trying to save up for a house, we both agreed to a $100 monthly clothing/blogging budget. I’m sure you’re laughing by now, I’m even laughing! It’s true though, I limit myself to $100 a month on clothing, shoes and accessories and my method works!

1.Splurge on Staples and Save on Trends

I LIVE by this one. If I know there’s a new trend that may not last, I definitely will shop the trend at stores such as Target, H&M and Forever 21 because I know their price point is much lower than Nordstrom or Bloomingdales. I tend to splurge when I’m purchasing a leather jacket or a good pair of boots because I know I will use them a ton and they won’t go out of style.

2.Shop at Inexpensive Stores for Statement Items

Target, TJ Maxx, Forever 21, H&M, Old Navy, and Francesca’s are a few of my favorite stores that have great quality clothing and accessories that are on trend for super cheap. The price range at these stores is anywhere from $15 to $50 which is much less than somewhere like Macy’s or Express. I recommend shopping for statement items at these stores because you are less likely to “outfit repeat” such items. For example, a plaid jacket with a noticeable pattern is less likely to be worn multiple times when compared to a simple knit sweater.

3.Don’t Buy Clothes Every Month

This one can be tough when seasons change, but try to buy clothing at the beginning of the season and then wait for a little while before purchasing more. I tend to buy clothes at the beginning of the season and then lay low for the month after. I have noticed that between work clothes and regular clothes, a few new versatile pieces can carry me through for an extended period of time.

4.Purchase Inexpensive Basics

I am a total sucker for a plain white tee or simple long sleeve shirt like this one. These clothing items look great under sweaters, vests and coats. Sometimes a plain top can be pricey if you look at Norstrom or even Macy’s BUT you can actually find basics for around $10 at Target.

5.Shop the Clearance Section First

My mom always laughs at me because every time we go to a store, I head for the sale section first! Usually the clothes in this section are from last season and may no longer be relevant in your wardrobe but sometimes you get lucky! The fall to winter transition is the best time to shop the sale section because the fall sweaters that are on sale are still “in style” during the winter time. Clearance accessories are also great to purchase because they are inexpensive and usually can be worn year-round.

My entire outfit here is $50 with the exception of my boots. I purchased this wine-colored sweater dress from Target for $29.99 (not available online, similar here), my scarf from Old Navy for $10 and my purse in the Target Clearance Section for $9.98 (not available online, similar here). Below are some cute items that are budget friendly 🙂

Dresses under $30

Scarfs $10 or less

Purses less than $25

Shoes less than $35

I hope this post is helpful for the next time you go shopping! There is nothing like creating a super cute outfit without breaking the bank! Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Verse of the Day: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way of everlasting.” – Psalm 139: 23-34.

XOXO Elizabeth Morgan

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