I really feel like the last few years my philosophy has changed in regards to shopping. I used to want a new outfit for every occasion. Cycling through my wardrobe pretty quickly. I was always wanting new, what’s on trend, what my girlfriends were wearing, etc. But over the last five years I’ve really changed up how I shop.
First off, postpartum I had a really hard time finding my style again because I felt like there were so many changes all at once. I become a mom, I was working from home, we moved to a new town, my body felt so foreign and different to me etc. I got really used to throwing on leggings and a sweatshirt because it was easy, comfy and predicable. It’s taken me some time, but I think I have finally nailed my rhythm again and adding items to my closet that I truly love and want to wear season after season.
The biggest thing that has changed for me is buying higher quality items, but less of them. And if I really, truly love something that is a little more expensive, I will splurge on it because I know I will wear it time and time again. I used to save my money for designer handbags, but I don’t so much care about the ‘it’ bag anymore. Instead I want ones that work with my closet, are cute and affordable. And because of that I’ve started to really splurge on some wardrobe staples.
I am a huge sweater wearer especially living in MI where is is always cold haha. And I’ve really grown to love cotton sweaters because they can be worn year round. They are great for spring and summer nights when it’s chilly and also great in the winter layered to make them warmer. Sweaters is an area I don’t mind spending a little more on because I know I wear them a ton- and wear them year round!
I’ve also really gotten in my stride in terms of my style and how I dress. I love classic silhouettes with a flair. I want fun clothing that’s comfy, not restrictive, easy to wear and style. Feminine details and colors like navy, green, pink, white etc. are my go to’s. But I also want to make sure I have really good basics in colors I adore. I would say my style has become more colorful, more fun over the years. Easy, breezy, colorful, not afraid to take some risks, etc. but I like to keep thinks simple and classic. This outfit that I am below feels very me, but an updated version!
My Outfit
Top | Sweater | Shorts | Sandals | Bag | Sunglasses
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I just got in this beautiful 100% cotton sweater from Julia Amory. And I also bought the matching shorts that I am excited to wear once it warms up a bit more. This is a new to me brand that I’ve become obsessed with lately.
The moment I saw these striped shorts I gasped! They are the most perfect short. I love the classic blue and white stripe, but they have a little twist to them with the green and light blue stripe. I also love the shape of them and find them to be very flattering. When I saw the price, I almost had a mini heart attack, but I could not stop thinking about them. I decided to order them (and used YOURULE for 20% off) and see how they were in person. Well, they are even better! I picture myself wearing these short over a bathing suit, with a white button down, with sneakers, with a cute short sleeve blouse. Honestly, I love them so much so naturally I know I will reach for them often.
My Rules For Shopping
- I have to truly love the item and the sytle.
- The item has to fit perfectly and if not, it needs to be returned, tailored or bought in a different size.
- First impressions matter. If I don’t love it right away, I probably won’t end up reaching for the item often.
- If the item is on the pricier side, I have to think of at least three different ways I will wear it.
- When shopping online, I can add items to my cart, but take a few days to truly think about the purchase. This gives me time to let the item really sink in and then I’m not over spending or buying items I don’t need.
- If it doesn’t work out, return it. On a side note to this, I always check the return policy before I buy just in case!
- It has to fit my lifestyle. I love dressier clothing but the truth is I don’t reach for that kind of stuff. I’m always looking for cute and comfy clothes that can be a little dressy if needed, but also more casual if I don’t feel like getting dressed up.
- It has to be comfy and fit well or else it’s going back. Or I order a new size if I really love it.
- I’ve also really started to enjoy finding smaller designers and shops vs. big box stores. They have more fun and unique pieces that no one will have!
New Arrivals I’ve Bought this Spring
I’ve done a little shopping already this season and wanted to share some of the items I’ve purchased!
- I’m most excited to wear this easy throw on and go dress. I adore the fun print, but the silhouette feels very classic. This is a new to me brand that I have been very happy to discover.
- I’ve become OBSESSED with this little navy bag that I got. It’s so easy to grab the top handle when I am getting out of my car. Plus it looks adorable crossbody. It holds a ton and it’s already become a favorite. Now I know why everyone obsesses over this brand.
- These sandals are crazy comfy which I would never associate with this type of sandal. I haven’t had a chance to wear them yet, but I know I will get a ton of wear this summer.
- My favorite jean shorts in white. I live in my denim ones year after year and I’ve always wanted to add a white pair. Use code YOURULE for 20% off.
- I have been reaching for these $100 boat shoes a lot the last few weeks. I really just love them. They are on trend right now but are very classic. The darker brown color is just perfect. I also see these carrying me into fall very nicely.
- These crochet ballet espadrilles are now sold out, so I’m so happy I snagged them when I did! I think they are super cute plus they are kind of dressy but also kind of casual. I didn’t order these but I did find this pair that is very similar and a lot better price.
- These are an absolute must!! The cutest sunglasses you will ever wear. I’m super impressed with them. Plus they have polarized lenses which are amazing for sun protection on sensitive eyes like myself. I want another pair already!
- I needed a new pair of sneakers for working out in and have really loved these! They are super supportive and comfy. I feel like I have better traction during my workouts.
- This set (sweater and shorts) was kind of an impulse buy, but I knew it would go fast so I acted quickly. I’ve been wearing the sweater so far because it’s been really chilly. And I plan to wear the shorts more casually, dressed up with sandals or over a bathing suit.
- I ordered two new dresses from Hill House. This white one I’ve worn for Mother’s Day photos with Sloane and I wore it for our Easter brunch. And then this navy stripe one sold out so fast last summer. It was on sale and back in stock over Christmas so I snagged it then.
- The shorts I’m wearing in these photos are new and I plan on wearing them every second I can!!
- And lastly I ordered these fisherman sandals. It’s been a style I’ve really loved the past couple of years but never loved any styles until I saw this pair. They are also super comfy!
Ok now it just needs to warm up- it’s been a really cold spring so far!
-Amanda
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