Sunday 31 August 2014

30 Before 30 Update - Changing Priorities



Every once and awhile, I examine my list of items remaining to be completed for my 30 things to do before 30.  For the most part, this task gives me a pang of anxiety (there are quite a few things left to be competed!) but more often than not, there is one task that gnaws at me more than the others - invest in a timeless handbag. (Just to clarify - by timeless handbag I am referring to Chanel, Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, etc.)

When I first started this list, I was in a very different place in my life.  First and foremost, I hadn't even started blogging yet and was very much an outsider looking in - not only with the countless personal style blogs that I poured over every day, but also with girls that I would see on the street who always looked to polished and put together.  My confidence in my own personal style was lacking, and I was always curious to know how these bloggers and fashion girls could look so effortlessly chic.  Naively, I deduced that these style mavens must spend all of their money on their wardrobes and only wear outrageously expensive designer clothing and accessories.  At the time, I thought that money was the key to dressing well and if I wanted to join the ranks as a person who could confidently put an outfit together than I would have to be prepared to shell out some major coin.  Unbeknownst to me, I was totally focusing on the wrong part of that thought and completely skipped over the most important part of personal style - confidence.

Fast forward to today, I have been blogging for about eight months now and my humble little lifestyle blog has a definite focus on my own evolving personal style.  Slowly I've discovered that it's not about the amount of clothing that you have, or how steep the price tag is, but how comfortable you feel.  The girls that I had admired from afar all had different budgets, but one thing was consistent- they walked with their head held high and genuinely seemed to have fun with their clothing.

Now I'm not saying that I'm some sort of style guru because I'm most certainly not, but I have learned a lot about my personal style throughout this journey. The biggest lesson being that style knows no price tag.  Have I dabbled in some big ticket items?  Yes, and those expensive little trinkets are fun to have - but do they make me happier, or make me feel better about myself?  No.  Definitely not.

I will not be purchasing an investment handbag - not at this point in my life anyways, and definitely not because I put it on a list of tasks are meant to enrich me as a person .  Right now, I want to spend my hard earned cash on experiences that better my existence and stuff just isn't cutting it for me lately.  Instead I would rather spend my money travelling, indulging in delicious meals and spending time with friends and family - and I now know that it does not come as a sacrifice to personal style.

What do you think?  I would love to know your thoughts and opinions on why I'm bailing on this 30 before 30 task.

xo Joëlle

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8 comments

  1. I'm totally with you on this one. You definitely don't need money to have great personal style. It's nice to treat yourself with big ticket items on occasion, but they don't define you. And always shop the sales! I'm always amazed when I wait long enough and something I've been eyeing goes on sale. :)

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    1. So true about the sales - it's such a high to get something special at a great price! I also agree about not letting big ticket items define you, so very wise!

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  2. Hiya!

    I completely agree! I was also in the same place thinking how these other bloggers keep themselves so put together all the time, and that's what put me off of blogging for a while too because I felt like I couldn't keep up. I decided to literally F that and just do my own thing. I am so much happier now. I say get that pricey bag and treat yourself, either for your next birthday or when you have accomplished something! I love that you will be focusing your hard earned money on more important things though - I think I will do the same!

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    1. Thanks Safa, I totally agree - I like to get nice things as a little treat, but have definitely come to realize that they don't define you. Great comment!

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  3. I just found your blog from chictopia. I'm so glad I did! This post is one of the most down to earth posts i've read in a long time. I totally understand what you mean. I used to get discouraged from seeing all the perfect blogs and posts that it made me nervous to start one. Finally I just decided to bite the bullet and do it. Do it without fear. That's why I started fearless fashion files. It's such a fun journey and I'm so glad to have read this and found your blog. The most important thing is as long as your happy. Your a very good writer. Love reading your posts!!! Thanks for sharing this and your 30 before 30. You have a great list. Have a great day!

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  4. Hi! I just stumbled upon your blog today and I really appreciate this particular post. I like girl confessions like this especially at this point in time when there are a lot of personal style blogs that can mislead young people who are looking out for inspirations. I saw your 30 before 30 list and I'm happy that it's not all about gaining material things. I kind of like it how this particular goal ended for you in a way wherein you learned a valuable lesson over a very expensive handbag. I have nothing against expensive stuff but it's not everything. I think you already know what I mean. :) ♥

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