Nautica Puffer Jacket (Burlington Coat Factory), $69.99 (similar pictured)
Anne Klein Knee Socks (Burlington Coat Factory), $4.99 (not pictured)
Fleece-lined Tights (Burlington Coat Factory), $4.99 (not pictured)
Old Navy Yoga Pants, $17.00*
Old Navy Sports Bra (2), $8.00*
InPink Earrings, $16.00 ($0 with promo code) + $6.95 shipping

*Old Navy purchases included $7.00 shipping total, coming out to $40.00 – $25.00 gift card = $15.00 out of pocket

Total: $101.92 ($41.92 over my $60 budget)

As I mentioned in my shopping post last week, I’m making more of a conscious effort to shop smart. One way to hold myself accountable is joining a Budgeting Bloggers linkup hosted by Fran. I definitely went over budget this time around, but that’s due to my largest purchase: a Nautica puffer jacket, which is a necessity in the polar vortex. Since I bought it at Burlington, it was already discounted, and it’s reversible which is a nice bonus. (The only bad thing is that due to a couple scratches from my dog, I now need to take it to a tailor for a couple fixes.)

With the exception of some rose gold studs (I think statement earrings are making a comeback), everything I bought was pretty practical. Along with the jacket, the tights and socks were used for layering during the coldest days. I’ve also realized fitted black yoga pants are better alternative to leggings: thicker with an actual waist so they don’t ride down. And more appropriate for dog walking. (They do run long, but I wear them with boots.)

Next month I hope to come in way wonder my budget, with the exception of any birthday gifts I buy for Nick. If you’re keeping a shopping budget, how did you do this month?

~ Sarah

Linking up with Fran and other budgeting bloggers.