Do you really need it?

I lost all of my clothes and shoes in a flood in 2010. I had to start my wardrobe over again and I was extremely limited on funds. It took two years for me to build it back up and even then, I always felt like something was missing.

My strategy had been to buy things on sale or clearance and not even touch anything that wasn't on sale. It was a good plan - kind of. It fit my budget at the time. I was able to purchase work and weekend wardrobe items for very little money. Some deals were great, but other things I wore just because they were cheap. Flats for $7.99? Sure. Dress for $10? I'll take it. Were they things I absolutely loved? Rarely. But at least I wasn't going naked...

In 2013, it dawned on me that I was doing this all wrong. My closet was packed. I had tons of shoes and clothes. I didn't really love anything. I had plenty to wear and didn't want to wear any of it. I was still in the habit of buying cheap, buying a lot. What if I took the money I would spend on two $10 dresses and buy a $20 dress?

I was in Target yesterday and immediately saw a blue & black Aztec sweater hanging in the clearance section. The price tag was $16 and some change. I immediately put in my shopping cart without thinking twice. Sure, I could browse the clearance racks and find two tops for $8, but why? I loved the sweater. Right now I'm typing this while wearing that lovely sweater and I have no regrets.

I find myself buying LESS these days, but I have MORE to love. It's easy to slip into the addiction of finding a "bargain", but usually that bargain goes in a pile with the rest of your bargains and doesn't bring too much joy.

The moral of my story is: buy what you love. Bargain shop, by all means, yes. Just realize the value of owning a piece you truly enjoy.