Shopping Outside My Comfort Zone
Last summer, facing down my first summer as an Arizona resident, I sprung for the most expensive pair of sandals I’d ever owned (they were $90 and that was approximately four times more than I’d ever spent on shoes).
That was the best $90 I ever spent – I wore them every single day for nearly four months. They looked great with everything, from shorts to skirts to jeans, and they were the perfect combination of neutral and fun. They matched with my whole closet, but also had enough personality to perk up any outfit I put on.
Of course, then when late November rolled around and it really was getting a bit ridiculous to still be wearing sandals, I realized I needed a similar pair of winter shoes – something that would look good with everything, but also have enough style to add some spark to a basic outfit (and let’s be honest, everything I wear is a basic outfit).
These boots were NOT $90 – I bought them on a whim at Ross for all of $24 – and they’ve been exactly what I was hoping for. I wear them almost every single day and when I put on jeans and a top and think, “What would make this outfit look a little more fun?” these boots are pretty much always the answer.
I wore them when we were in California and Merrick said, “I would never have picked those out for you, but they are great.”
That’s exactly how I feel about them. Sometimes, it’s just really nice to buy something outside of your comfort zone.
(But I’m still going to wear jeans 99% of the time).
Aaaaand, I'm still wearing sandals. I really don't know how I will manage to survive an Arizona summer.
xox
I love finding shoes that can be worn with everything! Especially when you can find them for such a great deal!
http://elementsofellis.com/
Blog twins today! Except my out of comfort zone item was for leather leggings. Also, when I saw you wear these boots on instagram… I definitely ran out and bought a pair because I loved them on you. Congrats for being the reason behind 99% of my impulse purchases 😉
Love those boots! And is that the combat jacket you said your parents were going to get you ? The J Crew one? (Yes, this officially makes me a stalker. You, Merrick, Design Mom, and Cup of Jo are basically my only blogs I have time to read nowadays, and even then in spurts. So I am keeping track!)
Those boots are EVERYTHING! I'm seriously so envious of those right now!
All right. I gotta know more about the sweatshirt. (If you say Thred-Up I will admire your shopping prowess, but be sad.)I think the link at the bottom of your post is broken. 🙁
It's actually a hand-me-down from Merrick – she bought it at Target 2 or 3 years ago, she said! (Even less helpful than ThredUp, I know).
Not sure if this is nearby, but seems like a place you might enjoy: http://www.riskyveggie.com/#!Honey-Bs-Boutique-Scottsdale-AZ/cmbz/56a7047b0cf215a9bb977460
I've had a pair similar to those boot for a couple of years now and I wear them regularly, with jeans, leggings, skirts and dresses. It does add a little 'edge' to an outfit, and it makes it casual and comfortable, while stylish.
Hahaha man, a good pair of sandals is pretty priceless! I love this bright patterned top under the olive jacket. Great combo