A Shopping Splurge
Honest Reviews of My Recent Fashion Finds
I have a confession: I can’t stop shopping. This post isn’t about overcoming my shopping addiction or offering tips to cut back on spending. Instead, I’ll be giving my honest reviews on each item and the impulse-buy worthy.
I think most of us carry a little shopping guilt or shame from time to time, which is something I recently shared on Substack Notes.
I appreciate the comments and advice on my shopping shame. I’ll share two of the pieces of advice with you all.
Asta - Because Substack is all about virtue signaling on not indulging in any of these behaviors so doing any of it feels like we will be rejected by the ‘tribe’.
Tina Boetto It’s what you do with the things you buy that are important, like really wearing the items you love and returning the ones you know won’t make it past a handful of outfits. Most everyone has a few points in their life where a wardrobe overhaul is needed driven by lifestyle, climate, body, aesthetic changes.
Now on to my purchases and honest reviews.
SOCKS
I love these socks and the length is exactly right. As someone with a “cankle,” I’m particular about where socks sit, and these pass the test. I ended up buying all three colors and have zero regrets.
Practicality: 5/5 — everyone needs a good pair of socks
Joy Factor: 4/5 — apparently colorful socks improve my mood
Would Repurchase: Absolutely
VEST
I finally did it, I splurged on this vest. Old Navy made a thirty dollar dupe which I almost bought but didn’t. I have worn my AMV almost every day since I bought it a week ago. Let me tell you why I spent the money on the American Vintage Vest.
1. They have endless color options.
2. The make of the vest is significantly better.
3. The shape is perfect (well for me).
4. I believe this vest will hold up for the test of time.
Practicality: 5/5 — Somehow works in three seasons
Joy Factor: 5/5 — I actively look forward to wearing it
Would Repurchase? Immediately
FUN TEE
This top is bold and when I saw it, it was an immediate I want this in my closet. I envision wearing it to the park with comfy shorts or out to dinner with jeans. However, it is very pricey for a simple top. I want to know what you think.
Practicality: 3/5 — comfortable, but a little too loud for everyday wear
Joy Factor: 4/5 — ridiculously fun but pricey
Would Repurchase? Maybe probably not
SKORTS
These skorts are a three-in-one situation and let me explain. You’re getting shorts and a skirt in one piece, plus something that actually works for hiking. Bonus points for looking unexpectedly fashionable on the trail. But of course, this is not a requirement.
Practicality: 4/5 — built for real movement but not year round
Joy Factor: 4/5 — deeply satisfying in a practical-mom way
Would Repurchase? Calling all moms because these are a must
SHORTS
Pre-baby, I spent a lot more time outdoors, and one of my current family goals is simply to get outside more often. That also meant rethinking my hiking wardrobe. I’m no longer reaching for tight bike shorts and leggings. I want pieces that feel baggy and comfy with an element of cool.
Practicality: 4/5 — they have been on my body almost everyday but cannot wear year round
Joy Factor: 4/5 — not glamorous, but incredibly comfy to wear
Would Repurchase? 100% — especially if you’re active and outdoorsy
MOTO BOOTS
I have a love for Ganni and have been slowly collecting pieces from them. I saw these being worn on influencers during the summer Copenhagen Fashion Week. They styled them in a sporty chic way which feels very me. Luckily I found these boots on Poshmark in my size for a quarter of the price!
Practicality: 3/5 — not an incredibly versatile shoe
Joy Factor: 5/5 — I have been eyeing a moto boot for a while and excited for the challenge to style them
Would Repurchase? These are either a passing trend or a lifelong personality trait for me. Time will tell.
Wow thank you. I feel like I got a lot of my chest there.
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There’s something about warm weather (and fall) that make the shoppies come out. I think that’s ok!!
Ooh La La, I love everything you purchased. Especially those Ganni boots.