This morning’s news was all about the (crappy) economy. Michigan’s been the single-state recession now for years, so nothing really new. And my personal economy is pretty good. But I also know there’s no way we’d be able to save for the baby’s college unless I was thrifty.
Budget fashionista author on CNN suggested a 70/30 rule – 70% should be classic, 30% should be trendy wear in your wardrobe. And I’d say that’s about what I have. Today I’ve got on skinny jeans (yeah, i heard they’re going out) and a classic cashmere turtleneck in a bright sunny coral. I also have on a lime green jeweled bracelet, and a gold chunky chain necklace. It’s my saturday chic. And it’s basic – but the jeans are trendy.
As I shoehorned in my down jacket into my coat closet I marveled that I do have a ton of nice things, and just getting them out of the closet to wear is important. Shop local – and shopping in your own closet is really local.
I was bequeathed a slate blue buttery leather skirt. But it’s below mid calf, and I’m not sure that’s a great look for me. I’m considering cutting off the bottom, hemming it to mid knee and using the remainder to make a cute clutch purse to match. Now a knee length leather skirt is classic. Worn with a turtleneck and boots, and a cozy sweatercoat? mmm.
Plus I have a couple pairs of super tapered dress pants that cry out to be cropped pants worn over boots. Must get to the alteration/sewing side of my closet.
So, why do I sew, thrift, consign and take in orphans from friends? Simple. My bank account is rich. I have no debt (and my house will be paid off in 5 years). My daughter’s going to a great college, and possibly grad school, I’ll retire early, and I can *feel* luxurious because I can spend, but not spend a lot while doing it.
I thank my mom for my sewing skills, my thrifting skills and my love of shopping. I hope to pass these things down to my daughter. You can live rich, and yet live small.