The Guilt of Buying Non-Work Clothes
Catherine Hageman's so accustomed to investing in office-ready pieces that when it comes to play-clothes, she hardly knows what to do.
When I landed my first job over three years ago, I couldn't wait to go shopping for work clothes. I've always been an overdresser — I'll take any excuse to wear a skirt! As I added to my work wardrobe, I learned to let go of the guilt associated with buying slightly more expensive clothes. As I've said, if I'm going to spend 40+ hours a week in these clothes, I deserve to enjoy them!
But what about swiping my credit card for the jeans, comfy v-necks and sweats that make up my weekend wardrobe? This summer has brought a new love — maxi skirts — and at $17 apiece, the two I purchased at Target are economical investments for my days off.
It's always hard for me to spend money on play clothes — all my jeans come from Old Navy or Target because I would rather go cheap on something I can't wear most days. However, I've discussed this with my co-workers, and many of them have the opposite problem. They're drowning in yoga pants, but short on trousers.
While I still like wearing cute outfits over the weekend, even if it's just skinnies and a nice t-shirt, every now and then, I just have to get comfy. Last month, I splurged on a hoodie and matching sweatpants from Victoria's Secret. I love the sweatsuit, as cheesy as it may be, and yes, I am anal enough that I have to coordinate even when no one sees my outfit.
But sometimes you have to treat yourself. I may not be able to wear sweats to work — or even out of the house. But I work hard during the week in dressy clothes, and I've decided that I deserve to be comfy and cute on the weekends.
How do you divvy up your clothing budget?
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Catherine Hageman dispatches fashionista tendencies fit for a corporate career on Small Town, Big Wardrobe.
-
Our Complete Quiet Luxury Shopping Guide
30 quality closet classics that always have—and always will—endure.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford Medal in Mother-Daughter Olympic Matching
The pair touched down in Paris wearing coordinating navy looks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals Royal Family Rift Was Worsened by Tabloids
"Yeah, that’s certainly a central piece to it."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Fashion Girls Are Destined to Wear the J.Crew x Maryam Nassir Zadeh Collaboration on Vacation
Beloved indie designer Maryam Nassir Zadeh translated her essentials into the ultimate packing list.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
The Nostalgic Wedge Sandal Is Officially a Summer Shoe Trend (Again)
The aughts-era shoe trend was due for a comeback.
By Emma Childs Last updated
-
Guests Are Reawakening Their Best Accessories Game at the Met Gala 2024
From Zendaya's massive feather headpiece to Tyla's hourglass handbag.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated
-
The Next Phase in the Mary Janes Trend? Doll-Like Slippers
The Mary Janes trend is evolving in a whimsical direction.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
This Under-the-Radar Jacket on Amazon Is My Newest Winter Obsession
And, no, it's not the "Amazon coat."
By Jaimie Potters Published
-
Found: 10 Sandals on Amazon You'll Love
Throw 'em on and go.
By Katie Attardo Published
-
11 Graphic T-Shirts From Amazon You'd Actually Wear
Cheeky, not cheesy.
By Marina Liao Published
-
What I Wear on Repeat: Ray-Ban's Wayfarer II Sunglasses
The Wayfarer II comes in a variety of colorways, though I chose black frames (KMidd on the other hand favors tortoise) for ultimate throw-them-on-and-go capabilities.
By Sally Holmes Published