Budget Babe: Shopping Without Breaking the Bank

Budget has been my favorite word the last couple months. Budgeting and finances have never been my strongest suit if I am to be honest but as long as I am still living I vow to keep growing, and that is an area where I want to evolve tremendously. I’ve really had to be strict on myself money wise lately because of some things I am trying to accomplish in the near future. It hasn’t been much fun but completely necessary.

I have cut out a majority of any unnecessary spending from eating out less, not purchasing makeup (cries a little on the inside) and working to reduce waste with my groceries. I have become quite creative when it comes to using everything in my kitchen and not restocking until I’ve used what I have. Another thing that has decreased is shopping for clothes, which I have little self control with it so I tend to just avoid the situation all together. I am a very All In/All Out type of person, there isn’t an in between for me so going in and just buying one clothing item can be a challenge.

People who are close to me KNOW my love for Target and probably know my hate for Wal-Mart is just about as great. However since I have a budget to stick to I have steered clear of my favorite store because let’s be real, Target has the cutest things but they are not cheap (well not in my opinion). I have been frequenting Wal-mart lately – anything to save a few pennies, right? You will go to Target for tissue and come out with your entire Fall wardrobe, never fails and I don’t have time for those types of fails in my life right now lol.

I have seen a handful of plus size bloggers doing Wal-mart clothing hauls. Although I have nothing against their clothing I had never really considered buying many things. I do own a few pair of their workout pants and tops which are some of my favorite and have a purchased sweats and things. I’ve browsed and bought a piece or two but not much. But on a recent trip and in the midst of needing serious retail therapy I decided to take a closer look. I was able to find some pieces that are super cute! I was actually able to pick a few pieces to incorporate into my wardrobe for the last few weeks of summer and will also be perfect for the fall travel I have planned. I bought a total of 4 pieces great prices for under $30.

These shorts are colorful, tropical and scream summer. And yea they are extra but I love them. And they were only $10! Paired with a $3 tank.

These two are definitely going to be packed for my cruise in November. The adorable black and white swimsuit cover up with hot pink tassels came in under $10. I purchased the tropical tank for $5 and paired with my own light washed shorts.

On the other hand we know that going into Target can bust your budget. I am not a bargain shopper and I despise hunting through racks looking for a possible steal. It has always stressed me to the max, but in efforts to approach my spending in a different way I’m trying to open my mind to the idea. I typically visit two to three times a week (yes I know – this is a no judgment zone here) not always purchasing, but more times than I would like walking out with things I hadn’t planned on buying. A couple weekends ago I had a free Saturday so what do I do – Go the Target of course. I’ve shopped clearance there before but as of late just haven’t been able to find any good deals – until said weekend. I walked out with two dress that would have been over $50 for well under $20! And I must admit they are pretty fab.

This dress is so sweet! It is the perfect dress for brunching! My favorite details are the simple ruffle at the bust, the flowy hemline and the tie up back detail. Originally $24.99, on sale for $7.48.

I HAD to save my favorite for last! Regular $27.99 I got this for a whopping $8.38 and it is from Targets new brand Universal Thread. I couldn’t help but to put on a classic red lip and shoe to match.

So it just goes to show that if you shop right you can find budget friendly, fashionable gems in unexpected places and still enjoy your “nicer” stores without breaking the bank. What are some of your favorite places to shop on a budget? What’s the best deal on a gem that you have scored? Comment down below!