Saturday, May 2, 2009

Watch Me (Not) Spend

I've been spending a lot of money lately and I do mean A LOT. Here are my recent purchases:

1. Jeffrey Campbell "Haley Stud" flat in nude
2. Jeffrey Campbell "Prop" pump in grey
3. Calvin Klein "Lexa II" flat in black
4. Sam Edelman "Gigi" sandal in purple
5. Tahitian pearl bracelet from Macy's
6. Anna Sui dress on eBay
7. Betsey Johnson "Loop De Loop" clutch on eBay
8. Chalie & Robin dress on eBay
9. Frye "Liz Ankle" boot in black
10. Rebecca Minkoff "MAC" in Almond

Now I've already sent back the Frye boots and the Rebecca Minkoff bag. Also, the bracelet and the stuff from eBay are being paid for by my mom. However, I did buy 4 pairs of shoes in 1 day with my own money. That's ridiculous and I'm coming to the realization that it needs to stop.

Inspired by Already Pretty who just ended her 6 month shopping ban, I think it is time for me to have my own ban. I'm just trying to figure out the rules and the timing. There are a number of things to consider.

1. Graduation is coming up. What do I do with that money? Can I spend it or do I put it into savings?

2. Along with graduation comes big girl jobs. I don't have the proper clothing for that. However, I figure my mom will probably provide that for me. Therefore, the rule will probably be that anything my mother pays for doesn't count. Does that apply to any item? Might I just end up using this as a loophole and begging her for a lot of things?

3. I don't really thrift. I should and I'd like to do more of it but I just haven't gotten around to doing so. Will I be able to spend my small allowance on new stuff or can I only by used items?

4. When do I start and how long will it last?

5. What exactly is the goal? A trip? More savings?

I really need to get my spending habits under control in all areas of my life. I'm hoping that I'll be working so much this summer that I'll hardly notice the ban. I know it won't be easy but if I don't have time to shop I'll miss it less.

I'm still working out the kinks in this plan so I'm not on ban yet but I'm doing my best not to buy anything. With finals coming up, I don't think it should be too hard. School comes first, after all.