Since I started blogging, I've been paying more attention to the way I shop. And I am not someone who can just go into a store to "browse" and see what they find. Naturally then, not much of a sales shopper (or, looking at it more positively much of an impulse buyer either). I like to know what I want and I want it to be just right. This was making me picky, and stressed, until I took more conscious control over what I was doing when out looking for clothes.

Now I always have this kind of running list in my head of things my closet needs. This way, I can fine tune the list to things that really fit a hole in my closet and will be remix-able, and I can take my time to find the right thing, with no pressure for waiting (And I've waited years to find the right item). Maybe you've heard someone gush over something and say they "were putting it on my list!" They mean a list like this. And here's what's currently on mine.

Here's what


1. Round Tortoise Glasses- Glasses are not exactly the cheapest accessory- especially if you have an lens correction like mine!- but since I wear them every day, an extra pair seems like a good idea. This pair is cute and in both shape and color a bit different than what I have now.

2. Wool Fedora-Nobody needs hats, but I do feel they add a lot of a look. I don't have one this shape, and very few in a brown hue. Plus, the tomboy edge it will give things means it can used for many outfits.

3. Red Striped Shirt- Classic colors; classic style. It can be dressed up or down, and will layer well for winter.  

4.  Brown, Lightweight Sweater- I love light, well fitting sweaters and brown adds a bit of versatility that white and black wouldn't while still being a neutral color. (And yes, I know it is not winter, but one should always be on the look out for such things). Plus, it is something that would fit in a work setting too.

5. White Pencil Skirt with Black Dots- Some things on my list are very general, but, like this, some are specific. The skirt must be pencil, must be white, must have black dots.  I've been falling hard for pencil skirts because they work well for a professional, but can be dressed down too. Sadly this one sold out. But I like that the pattern can act as a statement or as a neutral.

6.  Brown Leather Pencil Skirt- The simple shape of a pencil skirt once again is what I like here. And while the brown can go with anything, the leather adds a visual interest while keeping all the lines clean. I think it gives things a bit of an edge.

7. Geometric Print Pants OR Brown Pants- Since I am outside for part of every work day, it became really clear I need more work pants in my life this past winter. I think a black and white skinny leg in a geometric pattern would work well. So would a high waisted, slouchy brown pair.

8. Boyfriend Jeans- I love my skinny jeans, but a girl could use more than one pair of jeans. These look comfortable and would add a different silhouette to my closet. Plus- comfy.

9. "Skater" Midi Skirt- These type of skirts are having their "moment," but I've always loved the full skirted look and midi skirts. So, it seems smart to get one while they are still manufacturing so many neat options. I think a white, full, midi skirt would look elegant, but perhaps a solid color would add a bit more pop to my closet?

10. Crop Top- This is definitely the most trendy item on the list, but I've been really interested in try out the crop top trend, figuring you can use it to layer in the winter and keep cool this summer. I think the key to crop tops is to pair it with high waisted things, or peeking out from under longer shirts.

11. Black on White Polka Dot Shirt- Last year, I got a black-with-white-dots button-up blouse from Popbasic, and was surprised at how much use it gets. A white with black dots one seems like it would get just as much or more use. Luckily, it sounds like Popbasic will be release just such a shirt later this year.

12. Rope Bracelets- Ever since getting one rope bracelet in a Popbasic box, I've been obsessed. They seem so preppy and all American. But very sophisticated. Plus, they don't jangle around, even when I'm typing. Bracelets that don't get in the way? Such a novel idea, right?

13. Leather Clutch- I used to scoff at clutches because you need to hold onto them, meaning one hand is full all the time. But after seeing a friend use this clutch (which is now sold out), I changed my mind. It is big- important for me since I need to carry a few items to manage my diabetes- but designed with clear lines.

14. & 15. Black cigarette pants & White button Ups- You may be thinking, doesn't this girl already have those two items, and I do. However, both see frequent use and I've had them several years, so I'm keeping an eye out to replace things.

What about you? Do you keep a list? If so, what's on it, and if not, what shopping strategies work for you?