The End! The 30-Day Shopping Challenge is Over!

And I couldn't be happier! No joke. I'm browsing ASOS and Threadsense as you read this.

While I'd like to lie and say that the 30-Day No Shopping Challenge was fun, I can't. This was year two of the challenge, and I'm pretty sure I will not be putting myself (or you, my lovely readers) through this again. Lame-o. I've had more fun waiting for news of Adam Levine breaking up with his girlfriend (which actually happened) than doing this challenge.

I could barely wait for it over, and have been plotting Operation Shopping Rehab for days now.

Gunna look something like this when I hit the mall later:

So what did I learn from the challenge?

1. Saving money is good. It's nice to watch the numbers in your account actually go up. But where the savings that big? Not really. Since moving, I've had a lot of unexpected expenses.

2. I'll never do the challenge again. I'm an adult, and I know how to use self-control. I'll rely on that next time rather than taking an approaching where I'm forcing myself to come up with a time limit to slowly torture myself.

3. A little imagination goes a long way. Without shopping, I was able to look at the clothes in my closet in a different way, and come up with new looks.

4. Trying to bribe your husband into buying something for you really doesn't work. Shocker.

5. The time I would have spent shopping went towards other things, like crafting and sobbing alone  putting more effort into bettering my blog. Pluses all around!

Day 24: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge: Rebel Yell

I'm in the home stretch of the challenge... and I'm gunna be totally legit about it: I'm over it. 

While watching my pockets get fatter is great, not shopping has been boring. So yeah, let's speed this up a bit.

I love me a leather jacket. I have one (which actually isn't leather) from Zara, but I've been on the hunt for another one. Lucky for me, I won a gift card from Stylecaster for a Rachel Roy gift card back in December - super cool in my book as I've been a fan of her work for sometime now - and been watching  hawking the Jessica Jacket on her site for a couple of months, waiting for it to go on sale...

Outfit:

The Jessica Jacket - RachelRoy.com

Striped Crewneck Tee - Gap

Tulip Skirt - H&M

Purple Xhilaration Tights - Target

Grannie Shoes - Bakers

Spike The Punch Necklace

Oh yeah.

I'm all about this jacket - its got that rough look I love about a leather (without being leather), but with some sexy detailing via a raised hem and jersey inserts. And you know I can't resist neon. My Spike The Punch necklace has just enough "BAM!"

I'm rocking this jacket Joan Jet style until the weather forces me not to. 

Just a quick heads up: There won't be a post this Friday as I'm headed to Philadelphia to take in the sights and be up to no-good.

And a HUGE thank you to everyone who's taking part in the April Walk In My Shoes Challenge. It's been fun seeing your photos on Instagram. Keep em coming! #aprilwalkinmyshoes

Mani Monday: Freshly Intense

Day 23: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge

Since I didn't win the Mega Millions, it's back to blogging.
Oh, and...  I shopped this weekend. For Mike and Harley, that is.

I know how giddy I get when someone brings home a little somethin' somethin' for me, so why not share the love with the two fellas in my life who make me happy.

Mani Monday

Normally, I paint my ring finger a different color, but for this manicure, I figured I'd experiment a bit. Plus, I was itching to use Zoya's Heidi, a bold orangey coral!

Since I was short on time, I applied solid coats of Heidi and Julep's Helena, which I received in my February Maven box. I'm diggin' the purple and orange together. 

                

Julep's Helena

Zoya's Heidi

As for the glitter, it's Color Club's Backstage Pass - the chunkiest, biggest glitter nail polish I've found yet - stuffed with flecks of silver and purple with a clear topcoat. I wanted the color to stand out, so I applied glitter just along the sides. 

Color Club's Backstage Pass

Personally, this is my favorite mani yet. Neons and glitter - don't hate. Appreciate.

Oh, and are you taking part in my Instagram April Walk In My Shoes Challenge? #aprilwalkinmyshoes

Day 20: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge: Bangles For Your Buck

I'm 20 days in to my 30-Day No Shopping Challenge and I must admit, my online browsing has gone to an all-time high. 

The amount of sites I'm hitting up daily is ridiculous. But, it does give me time to gather up some bargains for ya'll to indulge in - even if I can't just yet!

Personally, I think bangles are gunna make a big comeback. While we all enjoy a fabulous Arm Party (thank you, Man Repeller), and love mixing and matching designers and brands on our arms, sometimes, I like a little continuity. And buying bangles in bulk not only guarantees a uniform look, but it's crazy economical.

Scope out my picks for bangles that are under $40!

Bangles For Your Buck by houseofjeffers featuring black and white jewelry

Wrap bracelet, $34
Black and white jewelry, $20
Bangles jewelry, $38
Pink crystal jewelry, $20
Forever 21 bangles jewelry, $4.80
Rubber jewelry, $4.50
Topshop stretch jewelry, $25
Girls' faceted bangles three-pack, $15

And don't forget, my Walk In My Shoes Instagram photo challenge starts tomorrow! Use the hash tag #aprilwalkinmyshoes to participate!

Day 16: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge - Looking Up

I started the no-shopping challenge for a bunch of reasons. To save money, to push myself a bit... but there's one underlying reason why I did it...  Plus, after reading Julie of Orchid Grey's honest and truthful post about some of the woes in her life, it inspired me to get a little more personal on my blog.

Outfit:

Pink Polka Dot Blouse - I heart Ronson from JCPenney

Black & Gold Sweater - The Gap

BDG Skinny Jeans - Urban Outfitters

Peep Tow Cut Out Pumps - Nine West

DIY Manicure - Julep Maven's Jodie (red) and Oscar (gold glitter)

Chunky Rhinestone Cocktail Ring - Flea market find

Necklace - Mandee

I might joke about how much fun shopping is, and how I love it and wish it could be an occupation (all of which are true, by the way), but there's one huge reason why I do it: stress.

I've been super stressed out lately, and noticed that when I fell into a funk, I'd go shopping. Something I don't want to make a habit out of. I never go overboard or drop stupid amounts of money on things, but the trips to the mall were become too frequent. I think the main reason I shop when I'm stressed is because it's something I can be in control of. Life has a way of throwing you unexpected curve balls... the things you can't control - and I guess this is my way of getting the upper hand in some aspect of my life.

But, I'm getting better on not sweating the small stuff - and finding more creative ways to unwind. I'm a person that likes to worry before a problem happens. I should just take a big ass chill pill and let life happen... and worry about it later.

So, hopefully, I didn't bum you out and or make ya'll think something catastrophic is wrong. It's just me letting stress get the best of me. "Need a vacation" is an understatement.

Then again, at the end of the challenge, I'll get to shop again. This time, though, it'll be a reward.

Watch This - Day 11: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge

Day 11

Today's urge to shop is huge. I've been doing a good job of limiting my online browsing, but with the warm temperatures brings a need for new everything. I'm totally aggravated, and the idea of just giving in to the urge to use some plastic is heavy on my mind.

One of the possessions I'm coveting the most is a watch. With all the neons and vibrants hitting everything in fashion, I'd love to incorporate a little time keeping into my wardrobe.

Happiness Investment Alert: Much like a handbag, a good timepiece will last you a lifetime. You'll be able to wear it anytime of year, it'll go with pretty much everything in your closet, and looks great piled up with bangles and bracelets surrounding it.

Father Time rules.... and so do these watches!

Spring Watch Trends 2012 by houseofjeffers featuring water resistant watches

1. Kate Spade New York Carousel Watch
2. ASOS Color Block Watch 
3. ASOS Green Leather Bow Watch
4. Michael Kors Round Tortoise Bracelet Watch
5. Urban Outfitters Typewriter Initial Watch
6. La Mer Animal Wrap Watch
7. Marc by Marc Jacobs Purple New Blade Watch
8. Tokyo Bay Pastel Yellow Watch

Put Me In Coach

Day 8 - 30-Day No Shopping Challenge

Eight days have passed and I haven't shopped yet! I was afraid the spare time on the weekend would encourage  me to take a trip downtown to Westfield, NJ,  but with St. Patty's, I had a much needed distraction.

Besides, remember I mentioned buying something I'd had my eye on for some time? Well, I bought my first Coach bag!

Outfit:

Fuchsia Sheer Dot Bow Blouse - Forever 21

Purple BGD Skinny Jeans - Urban Outfitters

Audition Smoker's Flats - Bakers

Kristen Satchel - Coach

Rhinestone Braided Bracelet - Henri Bendel

Braided Friendship Bracelet - Madewell

Black Leather Watch - similar style here

For months now, I've been going back and forth about making an investment in a quality handbag - and Coach came to mind. I'm usually very content with buying handbags anywhere, but for me, I wanted to reward myself for all the work I've been putting in, both as far as my job and personal life is concerned. Sometimes, you just have to treat yourself... and not feel guilty about it! 

Oh, and the shoes were part of my "need for shoes" shopping fit about two weeks ago.

Although I'd been eyeing up the re-designed Willis, when I came across Kristen, I knew we'd be fast friends. It fits everything I need on a daily basis. Plus, it doesn't weigh me down when I throw in a few extras. Having the option to ditch the shoulder strap is nice, too. 

Totally have a girl crush on Kristen. Hopefully, my husband won't be too jealous.

Day 3: 30-Day No Shopping Challenge - Getting Constructive

On my third day of not shopping, I'm unaffected by it. It's probably because I have things in my closet that are still unworn and new.

I find that sheer boredom is the No. 1 reason why I shop. Going to the mall or a shopping center keeps me busy, lets me stretch my legs and gets me in trouble. I always say I'm "just looking" when a store employees asks if they can help. I guess I'm actually saying I'm "just looking" for what I'll buy next.

If you find yourself on a self-imposed shopping ban, here's some tips on how to pass the time, constructively.

1. Organize your closet.

One can dream...

Spring cleaning is approaching, so why not have an O.C.D. moment and reorganize your wardrobe? While I wish my closet looked like the one above, I do color coordinate everything. It's like you hired Roy G. Biv to organize your wardrobe. 

2. Head to a swap meet and trade, or host your own!
If you can't spend, do the next best thing: swap with someone else! Bag up your duds and exchange items with friends. Check out The Swapaholics site - these ladies have put swapping on the map, and run a highly-successful business doing such!

3. DIY the s&% out of your non-desirables.

This adorable button artwork is super simple. Check out Mod Podge Rocks Blog for this DIY project.

It sounds a bit cheap, but if something is beyond wear, and I no longer want it, I selvage what I can from it. Buttons, laces, trim... anything I think I can use for crafting purposes. Turn your buttons into art, make friendship bracelets from trim... Recycle and get crafty!

The 30-Day No Shopping Challenge Is Back!

I've been bad.

I  might have went a little nuts and accidentally bought more shoes than I really needed within the last two weeks. Three to be exact. And... I also might have treated myself to something I've had my eye on for a while...

It started when I needed a pair of transitional winter/spring shoes for when the weather is too cold for flats, but warm enough not to need boots. Eventually, I found em...

These grey booties by Mia Shoes haven't left my feet since I bought em! They're beyond comfortable, look great with everything and are just adorable!

Outfit:

Blush Blazer - Gap

Striped Pop Art Tunic - Forever 21

Grey Stretch Leggings - Zara

Pampa Wedge Booties - Mia Shoes

Urban Expressions Bag - c/o

Rivet Wrap Bracelet - Henri Bendel

Purple Braided Friendship Bracelet - Madewell

Sterling Heart Bracelet - ?... a craft fair

So, to counteract my spending, I'm bringing back the 30-Day No Shopping Challenge! Last year, I was successful... but barely made it. This year, I'm upping the ante!

The rules are as follows:
1. Starting March 12, I can not shop for 30 days, or until April 12.
2. At any point, if I buy anything non-essential needed (toiletries, household cleaning items, food, etc.) I must write a post on my blog displaying my shame.
3. I can't buy beauty products that are not essential to my daily grooming and upkeep - This rule is new as I am a nail polish junkie.
4. I cannot convince Mike or anyone else to buy something for me and hold on to it for the remainder of my shopping ban - I tried this on Mike last year, and it sorta worked (he bought me a shirt I was coveting after the 30 days).

And, I'm challenging YOU! Think you can last 30 days without buying anything? I'd love to hear your progress if you take the challenge!

Let the madness begin!

THE FINALE - 30 Day Shopping Challenge is over!!!

I DID IT!!!!

Outfit:

Dress - Forever 21

Necklace - Mandee

Gladiator Sandals - Target

Even Harley's happy!

After 30 long days, I'm happy to say that I completed my No Shopping Challenge, and I'm now ready to burn a hole in my wallet! There were lots of trying times - times when I really just wanted to go shopping out of stress, frustration and sheer boredom, but, I hung in there and now I'm ready to jump back into my favorite sport! However, this has taught me how to save significantly, and in the future, I will be more conscious of budgeting my money and spending habits.

To some, it may be sad that I take so much joy in shopping. It's not always about buying myself something just to do it. Sometimes it's about treating yourself because your down in the dumps and need a pick me up... Or you reward yourself for working hard or for accomplishing something. Plus, I will say that as a fashion blogger, sometimes the pressure is on to look your best - and when nothing in your closet will do the trick, you turn to other blogs and see what everyone else is wearing... and it inspires you to go shopping!

But now, the serious stuff...

I've been thinking about my plan of attack for Shopapooloza 2011, and the itinerary looks a little like this:

What you see above is the actual Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, NJ's map. This operation is going into affect at exactly 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, approximately 30 mins away from my job. I've planned out the hunt to a T, including hot zones (1, 2 & 3), a break if necessary and a guestimate of how long it will take in each area.

Area 1 - The target is Forever 21 - the mother-load, if you will.

Area 2 - Multiple hits at Loft, Aldo and Gap - looking for shoes, accessories and tops.

Area 3 - Upper level focusing on H&M, Mandee, Spring Shoes & two open slots (if needed).

And this is just Day 1...

Day #27 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Eye On The Prize

Outfit: 

Striped Tank - Forever 21

Cardigan - Express

Leggings - H&M

Jean Shorts (really can't see them but I am wearing em) - Forever 21

Shoes - Mandee

Only 3 more days to go! I can literally smell the burning of money... I know I shouldn't go bananas, and I more than likely won't when I go back to my happy place this week - aka The Mall. Now that I've seen my savings grow, I'd like to keep it that way. But, I will say that all the online browsing and blog reading has put many ideas in my head for my summer wardrobe... and this challenge has put me behind so I'll have lots of catching up to do.

I have nervous energy as I'm starting a new job today. Having a job I love is extremely important to me as I'm one of those people who takes a lot of pride in being able to say I work hard and like my job. I'm can't just work at any job as I'd feel I'd be giving up on writing and the goals I set out for myself years ago in college. While if I had to take a job I didn't like solely for my family's sake, I would, but I think I'd always have a feeling of unfulfillment doing a job I know my heart isn't in. However, I'm very excited to start a new chapter - one that I hope is the best yet!

Day #23 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - On the brink

I'd like to thank my favorite mall for building two more stores I can't shop in for another week. Appreciate it.

I'd also like to acknowledge all the emails chalk full of free shipping and savings that I also won't be utilizing this week. In particular, 80spurple.com's sunglasses email was highly inticing.

I feel like homegirl above.7 more days? This week is the hardest being that my goal  is near and I'm starting to feel as though shopping is so close to being an option...

Even Harley wants this to end as I've dragged him into this mess. The shopping ban meant I couldn't buy toys for him. All he wants to do is stare out the window and wonder, "How'd I get involved?"

The list of things I'm itching to get my hands on is getting longer.... I think this whole experiment may have backfired as I'm a bit concerned I'm going to go a little overboard once I hit the mall next Wednesday. I'm gunna need to use "the force" to control my compulsion... Alas, I have to say I'm proud of myself for getting this far. I definitely didn't think I'd last this long, but I will say having the support of other bloggers, and all the comments, definitely kept me in check. So thanks!

I have some ideas on what I'll be buying, but how about you? What would you spurge on after a whole month in shopping purgatory?

If you went on a shopping ban for 30 days, what would you buy first?
	Summer Sandals
	Maxi Dresses
	Jeans
	Accessories - handbags and jewelry
	Tops
	Um... it's more like what wouldn't I buy!
pollcode.com free polls

Day #21 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Give a little bit...

Outfit:

Striped Shirt - Gap

Jeans - Forever21

Shoes - Bongo

Bag - New Look (UK)

All my efforts during the last 20 days have not been in vain.

Although the point of the challenge is to see if I can really make it, the big picture has to do with money. Since I stopped spending, my bank account has grown significantly. And, it allowed me to buy my mother a couple of gifts for Mother's Day. The act of giving definitely is better than receiving.

Speaking of which, the above is what I wore to Mother's Day dinner with my parents, husband and aunt. And, due to the money I've stashed away, it was nice to pay for dinner for everyone, especially for two of the women in my life who mean so much to me.

I'm normally not this candid with the type of money I spend, and while I work and have bills to pay, I am in no way "well-off". I make a normal salary that allows me to pay my bills and have some spending money. It's nice if you can splurge $350 on shoes and whatnot, but for me, that's not an option.

To break it down, my shopping activity looks a little like this (on a weekly basis):

• Mall Trips - Average of at least $50
• Online shopping - Average order of $40 (shipping kills me)
• Misc: Average $30 spent on accessories
• Makeup and toiletries - Average $30 - A trip to CVS for hand soap ends with me buying mascara, nail polish and other stuff that definitely wasn't on the list.

So that's $150 a week x 4 = $600 per month! Um... That's way too much money to be spending on clothes and misc. stuff.

The novelty of not shopping has had some great benefits:

• Physically seeing the savings in my piggy bank
• Being able to buy better gifts for others
• Developing a better thought process for making decisions when spending money "Do I really need this?"

But I only have 9 more days to go... anything could happen.

Day #16 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Half-Way There!

Outfit:

Cardigan - Forever21

Dress - Forever 21

Tights - H&M

Mary Jane Wedges - Office UK

Hello Kitty Necklace - gift from a friend

Just when I was starting to regret my No Shopping Challenge, something happened.

I dropped a stupid amount of money on my car and tickets to see Maroon 5 in August. The car troubles I couldn't avoid, but to sit four rows from Adam Levine - it's worth every penny. Good thing I'm holding out on this challenge as I'm gunna need the money to pay out these two debts. Ah, an upside to not shopping... This thing called saving money!?

Evidentally, I like torturing myself. This means going into stores and trying stuff on only to put everything back as the idea of having to tell my readers that I gave in washes over me. Case in point - I was out getting dinner with Mike when I came across DSW.

"Just want to look," I tell him.
"No," he says firmly. "You're not buying anything."
"I KNOW!" I snapped back.

What transpired was me trying on 4 pairs of shoes in 10 minutess - only to pout my way out of the store in frustration. Is that a record of some sort?

This obviously wasn't enough for me as I had to take a trip to Loehmann's, which I've never been to, and do the same exact thing. Let's just say the remainder of my work day was long...

I guess I'm my own worst enemy. Only 14 more days to go!

Day #14 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Eye Of The Tiger

Just about half way through the No Shopping Challenge - and I'm sad to say I failed...

... to update the blog last Friday, that is. 

I guess in between watching the Royal Wedding and work, I forgot. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention something about William and Kate (as my husband is from England) - loved her dress. But I think Pippa stole the show.

Welcome to my little slice of Great Britain - the door mat in front of my apartment.

Nope, I still haven't shopped! That's not to say the urge has not been strong. No trips to the mall either. My friends have been really shocked to hear this as they know how much of a shopping junkie I am.

On Friday, my job was getting rid of some samples during spring cleaning. So, a bunch of stuff was up for grabs - for free. I ended up snatching up a brown bag and three scarves. 

However, the weather is working against me. With warmer temps brings a need for replenishing my wardrobe. Sick of wearing the same duds for the past 4 months, I want shoes, dresses and skirts - shed some skin if you will. So the fact that everyone around me is wearing their new finds to work and for a night out - is making me very jealous. 

I did end up making a trip to the park (affectionately known as The Mud Hole in Nutley, NJ) for a little quality time with Harley and my favorite Brit. Another perk of this conquest is finding hidden treasures, like the shoes I'm wearing below, in my closet. They hurt like hell, but I'll sacrifice my feet for fashion.

Outfit:

Cardigan - Express

Striped Tee - Mandee

Belt - H&M

Jeans - Forever 21

Peep Toe Butterfly Shoes - BCBG

Murano Glass ring - gift from my bestie

Necklace - Harajuku Lovers

Day #9 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge - Stranger Thread

Until now, browsing websites hasn't bothered me... because I didn't see anything I really wanted. That's changed drastically within the last 48 hours. And it came in the form of pleats.

I'm blaming Loft for this spell of retail envy. I spotted a grey pleated top in their lineup that'd look adorable with jeans or shorts this summer... And I'm now fixated on it. I showed Mike, my husband, after he asked what all the fuss was about . All I got was the "Yes, it's nice, hun," obligatory response, and the additional "but I'm not going to buy this for you" look. Mission failed.

Pfft. I bet she's shopping right now. Available at Loft.

That's low-down desperation right there. Not very proud of myself at the moment.

It's ridiculous how hung up I am on something so trivial;  a grey - probably soft to the touch, would fit me in a small, but if that size wasn't in stock, the extra small would suffice - top. Just in case anyone was wondering.

Shopping is all about getting that fix - that you bought something you're excited about, brought it home and get to style it up... And right now, I'm fix-less. I just have to replace that temporarily with something more productive. Oh, I know - Adam Levine of Maroon 5 being on The Voice last night. That helped.

Then again, the money I'm saving is great - and that's what this is really all about. Oh, and will power, too.

I'm gunna have to start listening to more Say Anything and avoiding my computer during these times. Too tempting. Do I smell a new hobby on the horizon?

Day #7 - 30 Day No Shopping Challenge

Outfit:

Cardigan - Gap

Leopard print shirt - Mandee

Skinny cigarette ankle jeans - Urban Oufitters

Patent leather flats and leather bag - Zara

Tortoise shell sunglasses - Mandee

Leather cuff - Craftacular (purchased last year).

Seven full days of no shopping!!! And my wallet is thanking me. Also, I'm relying on the warm weather to allow me to break out some of my prior purchases I've been holding onto.

Being that gas prices have gone up within the last two weeks, I've been using the money I would have been spending on clothes to fill my tank up.

The weekend was rough, however. I usually hit the mall once during the weekend, and Saturday I was especially antsy. It was raining, and it would have been the perfect opportunity to kill time as my husband was at work. While the idea of window shopping crossed my mine, I knew if I went I'd be too tempted to spend... or at the very least, torture myself with seeing things I want but can't buy... and then feel underwhelmed by the whole experience. So I just avoided it.

I'm not a nun - I have been online browsing. Reading other blogs and finding inspiration from other bloggers and what they wear does make me curious to visit other sites and shop. I keep telling myself that I don't want to have to write a blog post about how I shopped when so many of you have expressed how you're reading and following my trials and tribulations. So I'm sticking it out.

The other hobby I've taken up is going through my clothes and sorting what I'll keep and what I'll donate. Perhaps this is my way of "refreshing" my closet by finding pieces I haven't worn in a while.

Ah the things one will do to obtain a goal.