To Save or To Splurge! A how to guide to investing in clothing

Most of us follow a budget and have clothing costs built into that budget. When you start holding yourself accountable to that budget, it becomes even more important to be intentional about what you need in your wardrobe and what you don't. 

For some of my clients, when they stop buying frivolously, they sometimes find themselves stuck when they DO need to buy something. They don't want to make the wrong choice or spend money where they don't need to spend money. 

There are some key things to keep in mind that will make it easier to determine if you should splurge or save. 

Go ahead, splurge! The following are reasons to spend a little bit more, and these clothes will be an investment.

• You will wear it often, and it will 100% give you a return on the investment. 
  If you're buying shoes or a blazer that you're going to wear three times a week, you're going to want to spend the money on them so that they hold up.

• I need this item to support me in particular ways. 
  A winter jacket needs to keep you warm. If you're a teacher or on your feet all day, you need a comfortable, supportive shoe. Do you live in an area where you need waterproof boots? These are considerations that are going to require splurging on the right product.

• I am super picky about the fabrics that are in my clothes. OR I need a high-performance item.
  If you have strong preferences on fabrics for your clothes, those may increase the cost and require a splurge. If you're someone who wants the best in stay dry technology for their workout clothes, then you may find that to be an extra expense worth the splurge. 

• It's PERFECT!
  When you find that unicorn item that is the right color, made for you fit, it's something you can get a lot of wear out of, and it's just overall PERFECT, it's worth the splurge. This item could be a blazer, nude pumps, jeans, or work pants. 

• You want to make an impression.
  If you work in a field where you have to be ahead of the curve when it comes to your image and your aesthetic, you will probably find yourself investing in more unique, high-end outfits. I find my clients who are plastic surgeons or graphic designers are willing to splurge a lot more if they're going to stand out and make an impression.

Save your money! This list offers reasons to find a less expensive alternative or save for a bit before buying.

• I don't know my style.
  If you haven't figured out what your personal style is, don't spend big money trying to find it. You won't have a plan in place, and items will go unworn. 

• I'm not settled in my career. 
  If you're currently interviewing for jobs or still in school earning your degree, don't spend money on something that you may not be able to wear. For example, you don't want to buy a suit or a blazer if you would look silly because you end up working in a casual environment.

• It costs more. It must be worth it!
  NO! Do not spend money on something based on the belief that more expensive is better. There needs to be a reason for the price tag.

• I need something for a one-time special event.
  If you're only going to wear it once, you have options! Look into Rent the Runway, borrow from a friend, or repurpose what you have to look and feel new and different.

• It's the coolest, newest, trendiest clothing item going on these days!
  Trends come and go. They also don't usually flatter or benefit the majority of women who wear them. Save your money for the classic pieces that are perfect for YOU and will last more than just one season.

• Something for every day.
  If you're looking at a t-shirt that your kids are going to wipe their saucy hands on all day long, you're going to want that to be a bargain price. Don't waste your money on items that are going to be destroyed by regular use.

All of this comes down to your values. When I work with you as a client, we work to be very clear on what is important to you and your values. This process makes it much easier for you to determine what is worth the splurge. If you're still unsure how to navigate these decisions, reach out, I can help!