Recently my husband and I retired and we had to take a new approach to money. Money feels different when you have a limited income and we took it as an opportunity to live more modestly. When I met my husband, over 20 years ago, I was about $35,000 in credit card debt, and he helped me get on a budget and pay off my credit cards, and live in a cash world. So, what does that look like when you are a plus size clothing blogger. It means you find a way to buy clothes on sale, do some thrift shopping, or to take a “do it yourself” point of view, and I do all three.
I found this sweater at Modcloth that I loved and thought would be very becoming, but since I had recently splurged on a Moto Jacket that I had been waiting to go on sale, I knew I was going to have to find a bargain.
I decided thrifting was the way to go, but because I am even a little larger than a regular plus size, which is usually a size 3X/24, and I am a size 4X/26, I suspected that my local Goodwill or a regular thrift store was probably not going to work. So I knew my best option was to try on line. I recently wrote about shopping for vintage/pre-owned clothing in my size. I started with ebay, because they have such a wide selection of clothing, but I did not have any luck, so I moved on to FatToo Grand for Size 28+, a group on Facebook where women can share clothing that is no longer working for them (it is a private group, you have to request entrance). The FatToo groups are not intended to make money for the creators of the group or the sellers, it is not a commercial venture.
And guess what, I found this fun sweater, for $5 plus shipping. It is perfect for spring and that was an especially good price, and similar in style to what I was looking for. So it was a great savings, and it feels really good to get a good bargain.
When I am thinking about making a purchase, I like to think in terms of what it would take to earn that amount, or what percentage of my income it will be. Will I love the clothes as much as it feels good to have savings and live within my budget?
I was invited to participate in the “Splurge vs. Save” Campaign by writing this post, through Credit Card Insider. I loved their goals: “We are advocates of the responsible use of credit, building and managing your credit history, and making informed decisions when selecting a credit card.” Because it is work we all need to do in our lives.
What do you think, do you love to get a great deal, and save some money for the future?
I would love to hear more about your hunt for a bargain.
Peace…affinity
Wow, what a fantastic look! I really like it! I personally get so much more of a kick out of finding something cute for cheap, than dropping a lot of money on an item! I got the thrifty gene from my mom. 🙂
I was missing the thrifty gene, but I love having it now. And since you also sew you create lots of options in your life.
Way to go that’s a great five dollars sweater !!! I find all my great clothes are from recycled places at way lower than retail prices. I love the Hunt you never know what you’re going to find I never pay more than $10 for much from the good will.
Nancy
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You, Nancy, are always an inspiration, and always look fabulous. Thanks for being such a great commenter.
I’d really love to be totally responsible about my spending – nothing made in sweat shops or unethical conditions but when you are plus size, it’s so very difficult. At least buying secondhand, I’m not directly supporting that. When I’ve been really broke, I try to finance new clothes by selling old one so that I end up breaking even 🙂
I had not thought of the Kathryn, another reason for buying secondhand. Thanks for teaching me something, and for commenting. I am just about to sell some clothes that I hope will balance again new purchases, both financially and in room in the closet. 🙂
It may not be in the spirit of the post….but I think I have to have the Modcloth Cardi! Of course will use credit card and pay it off when the bill comes.
You made me laugh Denise… The Modcloth Cardi is pretty cute, and yes I know you will be paying off that credit card balance. Thanks for reading and commenting.
What a FANTASTIC tip! VERY useful. Thanks!
Welcome from another “Beyond 50” blogger. Thanks for commenting.
My mum & I have always thrifted together. I go to a private university where most girls have everything, and even though I sometimes covet their shiny heels and new Kenneth Cole bags, I never feel uncomfortable around them. I know I can mimic the expensive looks with a few recycled pieces that keep me from splurging. I definitely consider the mileage something will get before I buy it. Heels in blush pink? Wise investment. High-waisted shorts? Negatory. What was I thinking?
Thanks Amy, I was raised in Palm Springs, from the wrong side of the tracks, so I know about not having things, but a little perseverance and paying attention can go a long way. Thanks for much for commenting. I love it when we get to hear real stories from real people.
love this post, and your blog!!!
Thanks so much, you have no idea how happy it makes me when I hear from all of you.
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