Given the economic climate in our country, and in my bank account, I am adhering to a "need" not "want" policy when it comes to consumerism. Do I "want" these awesomely gorgeous boots or do I "need" to pay my bills? The answer may be obvious to some but prior to being responsible for feeding, clothing and sheltering a child, I could rationalize the boot purchase. Come on, I need new boots—I'm job searching in the fashion/beauty sector, I can't wear last season's boots … (see, it can be rationalized!).
Quick digression, once when Matt (my generous and kind husband) and I were dating, I brought home a new pair of silver flats that I bought (on sale!) at Saks. He said "they're cute but do you really need a new pair of shoes?" [long—very long—pause]. In the spirit of love and compromise, he hasn't asked me a question like that since and in turn, I've learned to check myself prior to a want vs. a need purchase.
On that note, welcome to my virtual picks of the week! Like most of you, I receive an unreadable amount of promotional email. Not all of them are garbage. I love the Guilt Groupe, Apartment Therapy, Lancome, Etsy (oh how I love Etsy!) and lots more. Below are my choices for the first edition of my Picks of The Week… a posting that reviews things I may have purchased if it was 2006 and we were back in the economic boom (remember those days?).
Christian Lacroix Dress [so well tailored, sophisticated and classic.]
Retail: $700
Guilt Groupe: $278
Retail: $745
Guilt Groupe: $268
That little voice in my head, I call her Oprah, keeps reminding me, "Your home is a reflection of who you are…" ergo, I am currently a cluttered and undecorated soul.
And for inspiration…. From Apartment Therapy
I need to hang pictures, I have them all over the house but haven't put them on the walls yet… go forth and be strong, commit to your home by putting a nail in the wall!
From Apartment Therapy
How gorgeous is this kitchen? I vow to treat my kitchen as well as it treats me. I love you kitchen, I will accessorize you with more than a toaster.