June 2015 Purchases

Now that summer is officially here, summer clothes and beachwear have been on my mind. Last month I started thinking about pieces I would like to add to my wardrobe this season, and that culminated in my summer 2015 wishlist. This month I was able to snag a few items on that list, including a small cognac bag, comfy sneakers (two pairs!), and half of a black bikini. Speaking of bikinis, does anyone else hate trying on swimsuits? I feel like it brings out all of my inner insecurities. I was really lucky that I found three pieces that were flattering and affordable so painlessly. Usually it's such an ordeal. Anyway, here's what I added to my wardrobe this month.

Old Navy floral string bikini top (peri berry print S) - I don't usually like string bikini tops, because they offer zero support, have little coverage, and the triangle panels tend to shift around so that I'm constantly worried about accidental flashing. However, they do tend to be quite cheap and offer a high level of adjustability. This top impressed me with how well it stayed in place. Totally passed my jump-up-and-down test. Maybe the double string halter ties help with that? Still not that much support, so I wouldn't recommend it for larger busts, but I'm only a 32C. I like the tassels too. Originally $22.94. Paid $9 + 6% off ebates = $8.46.

Old Navy floral string bikini bottom (peri berry print XS) - I like string bottoms, because you can tie them as tightly as you need. Since I have pretty slim hips, most XS bottoms are still a bit loose, and I don't want them coming off when I get into/out of the water. These were perfect once I adjusted the tassel ties. Some people don't like the tassels, but you can always cut those off. Personally I'm fine with them, because they help visually balance out my figure. Originally $19.94. Paid $8 + 6% off ebates = $7.52.

Mossimo strappy halter bikini top (black S) - I like this top even better than the string bikini. It's extremely flattering, quite supportive, is fully adjustable, and offers a decent amount of coverage. The only problem is that the matching bottom is sold out in XS, so now I need to look around for other black bottoms. You would think that's easy enough, but so far I haven't found any that matched the style and fit tightly enough that they won't fall off in the water. Originally $17.99. Paid $16.

Vans for J.Crew classic slip-on sneakers in metallic (silver 4.5/6) - So this was totally an impulse purchase. I was walking through the sale section at J.Crew this past weekend, and the only thing that caught my eye was these silver slip-on Vans. I really like the way they look, and I think they would pair well with jeans and shorts for those casual days. Originally $60. Paid $49.99 + 50% off in-store + 15% off student discount = $21.25.

Everlane cotton heather v (heather grey XS) - Last month I purchased my first Everlane cotton tee. It got stained the first day I wore it, but luckily I was able to get the stain out after two washes. I really like the fit, but the white color is still a little sheer in my opinion. So the logical solution is to pick up a tee in heather grey. This one isn't sheer at all, but it seems to run a hair larger than the white one. No problem, I'll just shrink it once in the dryer. Originally $18. Paid $18.

Rebecca Minkoff mini MAC (almond) - In the course of going through my bag collection, I realized that I didn't already own a small cognac purse. I decided to rectify this oversight by picking up one of my favorite Rebecca Minkoff styles, the popular mini MAC. I really like the gold hardware, and the leather is so supple! The only thing that could make this little bag even better is if there were more interior organizer pockets. Clearly that doesn't bother me though, because I've been wearing it nonstop ever since I got it. Originally $195. Paid $119.76 - $50 birthday gift card - $37.57 rewards = $32.19.

Everlane tee, J.Crew maxi skirt, Sam Edelman sandals, Rebecca Minkoff mini MAC

Nike vintage collection Air Pegasus '83 sneakers (black 6M) - Retro sneakers have been everywhere on the blogosphere lately, and I'm all for it. I bought my pair from J.Crew (occasional popbacks), but this style is also available on other websites. Originally $80. Paid $80 + 30% off (doh forgot ebates!) = $56.

Kendra Scott Rayne tassel necklace (turquoise) - My Kendra Scott jewelry collection is growing! I've been looking for a pendant necklace and saw that Nordstrom was price matching this one (with Lord & Taylor, I think?). I bought it in turquoise, because it's such a pretty pop of color against neutrals, which is what I mostly wear, plus then I can match my turquoise Kendra Scott Elle earrings. Originally $80. Paid $64 + 3% off ebates = $62.08.

Kendra Scott Kylie drusy ring (rhodium platinum drusy 5) - I went through a gold jewelry phase for a while, so most of the rings I own are gold-toned. However, my engagement ring is silver-toned. I used to be okay with wearing both colors on my hands at the same time, but now it somehow feels wrong. I decided to pick up this ring to add to my silver jewelry collection, plus it's sooo glittery. In case you didn't know, glitter is my kryptonite. Originally $65. Paid $32.49 + 3% off ebates = $31.52.

So the total for this month comes to...
RETAIL: $558.87
SPENT: $253.02 (45.3% of MSRP)

My goal for the year is to spend less than $3000, which translates roughly to $250 per month. Right now I'm at $3000 - $327.20 for 2015Q1 - $299.57 for April - $248.88 for May - $253.02 for June = $1871.33, which translates to an average of $311.89 per month for the next 6 months.

I think I went overboard with the accessories this time around, although I do love everything. Next month I want to focus on getting the perfect denim jacket and casual everyday dress.

As always, I'm linking up with Franish and the other Budgeting Bloggers!

How did you do on your budget this month?