I was considering dropping boo koo bucks on wear-with-everything flats this weekend –however – I exercised my temptation muscles. Lately, I’ve adopted a useful test for judging whether a fashion splurge is worth the investment.
Lux items are in abundance. My credit limit is in short supply. I save myself money and strife by adhering to a few simple rules when I’m hunting for a swoon-worthy item.
Does your splurge pass the test?
- Is it a designer that you covet? If you’re splurging, make an art-worthy statement. Having a connection to and respect for the designer makes the piece intimately yours.
- Will it integrate into your existing wardrobe? I’m all for a trends, but that’s why Zara exists.
- Does it have a disaster factor? Aka – how likely is it to get damaged or accrue wear-and-tear. For instance, I never splurge on sunglasses because they’re constantly subjected to scratching, getting lost and breaking.
- Is this purchase more important than other life priorities? Is it infringing on your money saving goals or that trip at the end of the year with your girlfriends?
- Have you thought of the money-to-season ratio? For instance –I live in Florida so nice leather sandals outweigh winter boots in importance.
The splurge test will put a system of checks-and-balances on your wardrobe spending and help you avert style disaster. If I had this test five years ago the following fashion disasters would have been averted:
- A puke-yellow, Rebecca Minkoff side satchel that I snagged at a Barney’s warehouse sale because I was in an “edgy” mood.
- A multicolored Pucci hat that I purchased, solely because I was in Milan and on a gelato-induced sugar high.
- Feathers – on EVERYTHING – during my music festival days.
Style Disclaimer: The splurge test is a standard for all. It translates differently for everyone based on taste. Use this according to YOUR standard – YOUR body – YOUR lifestyle needs. And please, don’t go running to splurge on a Celine tee because your instagram feed encourages it.
