Sometimes it’s tricky to know when to save and when to splurge, am I right? Lately I’ve been trying to find that balance between my budget and my love for fashion. In the past I’ve tried out capsule wardrobes (and learned a lot), and I really do think there’s a time and place for them. I believe less is more, and embrace the idea of minimalism… to an extent.
Now in my dream world, I’d love to own less things with greater value that will last a long time. But that can be a challenge because I love shopping and trying new styles! Sometimes I’m dying to try out a new trend, so buying something super expensive isn’t really a smart idea.
So where’s the balance? Here are a few things I’ve learned over the past few years of shopping successes and mistakes. Use these tips when you’re shopping to help you know when to save and when to splurge!
Tie front tee | Distressed jeans, also love the darker wash | Blush mules (and love these lavender ones) | Saddle bag | Earrings (similar) | Watch
When to save
If you’re anything like me, you probably have expensive taste. I love high quality items, like leather purses and shoes, because let’s be honest – they look so much nicer and last forever! In the past I’ve had faux leather items that wear down and fall apart quicker than I wish they had. It’s the worst.
But sometimes, spending a lot of money might not make the most sense, and buying the cheaper version can actually be the best option. Here are a couple clues to know when you should save your money and buy the bargain item instead:
1. When you’re not 100% sure
I can’t tell you how may times I’ve made this mistake: I’m shopping for something specific, and I’m stubborn and determined to have a higher value item instead of the bargain version.
I find one that kinda sorta mostly matches what I want, even though it’s not exactly perfect, and buy it because I’m impatient. But a few months later I realize I never really LOVED the item and then I regret spending so much on it!
I’ve had to sell nice things, like leather boots before, for much lower than I bought them, just because I wanted something nice and let myself settle on something I didn’t love that didn’t end up working in the long run. When you don’t have infinite funds, that’s what I’d call a fail. Don’t do that!
Instead, wait until you’re 100% sure you found the right item, or just save money and buy a cheap version!
2. When it’s a trendy item
If you’re thinking of investing in something, but you’re not sure, I can almost guarantee you can find a cheaper copy at a discount store (a.k.a. Target, Old Navy, Forever 21, etc.). It’s a great way to test out that style and see if it’s really what you want, and not end up with buyer’s remorse like I have.
(That’s what I decided to do with these blush mules from Target – I wanted to try out this style for cheap before buying a more expensive leather pair!)
If you decide you love the cheaper item, you can use it until it wears down, meanwhile saving up for the nicer one. I promise you’ll be SO much happier when you finally get the real deal and know for a fact that it will give you so much use!
And if you didn’t love it, at least you saved some money and still got to try out the trend.
When to splurge
I know I called this post when to save and when to splurge, but I think the word “splurge” carries the wrong connotation. Splurging means spending on impulse, without giving much thought ahead of time. But that’s not what I’m talking about here. I use the word loosely, but a better term for what I mean is wisely investing your money on something of higher quality.
It’s important to be wise with your money and be sure that when you’re buying something expensive, it’s going to be something you use for a long time or that can give you much more value than a cheap version! Here are two ways to know when you should splurge and get the expensive item:
1. When you’re willing to wait
You’ll know something’s worth investing in if you’ve saved up, looked at every option, and know exactly what you want (and know exactly how you’ll use it), and are willing to wait awhile to be sure. It might be hard, but try waiting at least a month before you buy an investment item. That way you can be sure it’s not just an impulse buy but something you know you’ll use for a long time.
2. When it’s a specialty item that you will use a ton
Something I’ve learned that’s worth the money is good jeans. Most lower priced jeans aren’t very comfortable or flattering and I struggle to find any that fit just right! That’s why I’m so happy I invested in these Levi’s. For me these jeans were a higher value purchase, and I had my eye on this particular pair for awhile. I’ve seen them on a lot of different people and knew that they would be flattering on anyone. So I finally ordered them, and so far they have not disappointed!
Even though ripped-knee jeans are a trend, I know they’ll be around for awhile. These jeans are great quality and will last a me long time, and of course they go with everything! And for real – I don’t think it’s worth it to buy a cheap pair of jeans that don’t make you look great from every angle. You should always feel good, look good, and be comfortable in jeans any day of the week!
Not to mention, Levi’s is a reputable brand and known for its quality. I’d say splurge on things like jeans or anything specialty (like running shoes for example) from brands that are known for that particular product! I recently invested in a pair of Nike running shoes, and yes, good athletic shoes are pricey, but totally worth it so I can avoid injuries and have support while running.
You do you
In the end, deciding when to save and when to splurge is totally up to you! Everyone’s budget, values, and lifestyle is different. Maybe you have money to spend on higher quality items, but if that’s not something you value, then you would probably rather buy lower priced clothing and use your money towards something else, like organic groceries or a vacation (or your Starbucks addiction 😜).
My number one piece of advice is don’t ever compromise your values to buy something that’s in style, or to impress anyone. Don’t be irresponsible with your money. Go with your gut and what makes the most sense for you.
Be wise, but don’t feel bad if you worked hard and budgeted for something nice and made a well-earned and useful purchase! You’ll save in the long run because of the use you’ll get from it. And you should enjoy the blessings God’s given you and live a little!
What about you? How do you decide when to save and when to splurge? Tell me your favorite brands and places to shop in the comments!
Xo,
Becka
P. S. – My favorite low-budget jeans, and my current everyday makeup routine.
