Another month down, and another Low Buy update to share. One of the things I really picked up on in May was that I found myself scrolling less. Overall, there was just a lot less desire to look at stuff. And I think this is in part down to the fact that I’m now two months postpartum; that desire to shop and buy something that *actually* fits is gone (a huge trigger for me during both my pregnancies), and also, I just have a lot less free time to mindlessly scroll online.
Wearing Jenni Kayne alpaca knit (15% off with JamieLee15); Bec & Bridge slip skirt (old but similar here); Vaneli two tone pumps; Salvatore Ferragamo bow bag (10% off with code JAMIEFF)
Having added a few more items than I’d anticipated in April (in part due to my unbridled love to stripes, and in part due to an longstanding store credit), there was a huge desire to maintain some restraint. And despite a few false starts, I ended up adding just one item to my “wardrobe” in May. Bonus points for not even coming close to maxing out my monthly budget.
GIVING ME JOY THIS MONTH
Similar to April, I’ve been cocooning myself in family life since we had our little girl. I think at this point my face hurts from all the smiles; both at watching her grow (and smile back), but mostly from seeing our son interact with her with so much love and affection.
Aside from that, I’ve been consuming a little bit of media. First being 1Q84 by Murakami. This came highly recommended when I asked which of his works to start with. I’m currently mid-way through book “2”, and thoroughly enjoying it. Without giving anything away, it tells the story of two characters concurrently, as they navigate a series of strange and unusual occurrences.
I’ve also been watching a couple of TV series; The Wilds on Amazon Prime, and we’ve also watched a couple of episodes Severence on Apple TV.
HOW I SPENT MY BUDGET
As I alluded earlier, I also had two false starts. Purchases that I’d made with intention, but that didn’t pan out as expected. So, let’s talk about what I did buy, first.
Marni crystal studded ear cuffs | My desire to add something of a statement earring to my wardrobe hasn’t diminished since getting these earrings the previous month. I’d added these ear cuffs from Marni to my wishlist back in late February, so naturally when the alert came through that they were on sale, I thought perfect time to buy. I only have one other ear cuff in my jewellery stash, but these are something else entirely. They have an antique feel, due to the organic and imperfect nature of their shape. The metal looks aged, and I like the rather large shaped crystals embedded in them. They’re fairly weighty so not the type of piece I’m currently able to wear all day, but I love what they add to an earring stack.
As for the items I returned… The first was this Christopher Esber dress. Versatility is often a key aspect I look for, and this has it in spades. The sleeves and waist are all detachable, allowing you to create little “cut-out” effects; opt to wear it sleeveless, or potentially even as a crop and midi skirt combo. Unfortunately this just didn’t do it for me. The neckline did me no favours, the fabric was much heavier than I was after (great quality though!), and the skirt didn’t sit how I wanted when fully unbuttoned. It fell a little too low. A shame as it’s a beautiful piece, and I’d managed to snag it during a flash sale.
The second item I bought but returned was this long sleeved shirt from Assembly Label. Shirts are undeniably a solid hero piece in my closet, and I was drawn to the soft desaturated green hue. I’ve added deeper khaki’s to my closet over the past year, and this felt like an opportunity to add in something a little lighter. Again, the fit just wasn’t quite right. It was far longer than I’d anticipated. Though I think perhaps I didn’t examine the online imagery quite close enough. Im 172cm tall for reference, and it was essentially dress length on me. Also a lot of fabric. Felt too cumbersome to tuck, so again, one I decided wasn’t for me.
Both these purchases highlight how important fit and details are when you’re making fewer purchases. The more you buy, the more likely you are to forgive any inconsistencies with your personal preferences. You have options so seeking out that Goldilocks zone isn’t quite as forefront of mind. I’ve always considered myself particularly picky when it comes to fit, but throughout my low buy this has been an even larger part of the purchasing process.
GIFTING I RECEIVED
Jenni Kayne | Kings of the California-cool, laid back aesthetic, I was so excited to spot an email in my inbox from the Jenni Kayne team asking if I’d like to receive a couple of their new collection pieces. My pick of the bunch is the cashmere cocoon cardigan. This feels so luxurious; it’s incredibly soft, and has a beautiful drape to it. Also, very warm too, despite not being too thick. I’ve shared it countless times already as it’s been one of my go-to’s since it arrived in the mail. I do have a discount code; JamieLee15 for 15% off.
The Upside | Two years late to the game, but I’ve finally developed a newfound appreciation for loungewear. My friends at The Upside came through with some elevated lounge pieces which I think easily work for casual day-to-day errands, too. You can check out the look I received over on LTK.
Laura Mercier | A little surprise delivery from Laura Mercier arrived on my doorstep mid-month; a drop of their Lip Glace’s in five neutral shades. These are a lip gloss and lip balm hybrid. Less sticky than a gloss, and feel moisturising and nourishing on the lips. Lots of shine, and a light wash of colour. You can check them out locally here at Mecca.
Boden | My beautiful friends at Boden sent over a wee surprise for me and the kids; matching striped tops. Given my love of stripes, it couldn’t be more fitting.
Paid Partnerships | Let’s wrap things up with gifting I received as part of paid partnerships for the month of May; Portmans, LILYSILK, Esther&Co, Linjer, and Ceres Life. I thought instead of running through each item, I’d just highlight three of my favourites.
For my first pick… LILYSILK recently launched their new spring collection, and there’s so many pretty pieces. My favourite is probably this pleated tank with deep V at the front and back. So elegant, and all the pleating adds some serious visual interest. I have a discount code by the way… mademoiselle12 for 12% off everything.
You’ll have seen me mention dopamine dressing a few times at this point, so this next piece will come as little surprise. This alpaca-blended knit from Ceres Life. Finally, I’m also a little obsessed with this sweetheart neckline top from Esther&Co. I have a similar one in white, but the black feels even more versatile. A great winter date-night option!
That wraps up May! One more month left of my low buy – would love to know how you’ve been going with your low buy (or no buy) challenge.
