It’s probably a good thing I don’t permanently live in Paris. This month has been a little hard on the budget. As most of you know, I like to indulge in the occasional shopping binge every once in a while ---ok, that is a bold face lie ---it’s more like a perpetual shopping binge. In Holland, however, my fashion addiction has been pleasantly under control. I can’t say it is due to a new found will power though. No, the sad reality is, I just can’t find anything to buy!! (Shocking, I know!!) Dutch fashion leaves a lot to be desired. There’s not a huge amount of individuality in the fashion scene, and not matter what season it is, prepare yourselves for racks of bright orange, red and pink clothing!
In Paris, however, I can barely even step outside my apartment without seeing something I love. The short ten minute walk to the metro is painful and includes a walk by Miss Coquines (a shoe/accessory lover’s paradise), Naf Naf, and a handful of adorable boutiques.
And so, phone calls have been made to the credit card company, money has been juggled amongst accounts, and tags have been promptly ripped off newly purchased items which have been immediately hung in the closet (“This new? Nooooo, I’ve had that for years!”)
I have found that by cutting back on my grocery bill, I can easily accommodate a tad more shopping. The discount supermarket down the street has become my friend, along with its range of (slightly tasteless) no-name products. The sacrifices we make!
After a particular bad spell of over-spending, I called my mom in Canada to confess my sins. Turns out she too had been hitting the racks that weekend and amongst the two of us we were able to justify every item we had purchased. (“You needed that new jacket Mom, your old one was in a horrible state.” “You have to look professional for meetings C, I would say you probably even need a few more suits”)
It was music to my ears! I can always count on the momma!
