Was it worth it?
04: Thoughts on what I bought on sale, a trip to Trader Joe’s and an unexpectedly funny rom-com.
When I spend money—whether it’s on clothes, food, experiences, or something else—I like to feel good about it.
As much as possible, I try to be mindful of what I buy. I love finding a good deal, but I also don’t mind spending a little extra from time to time if it means better quality. I read a lot of reviews, pay attention to recommendations and try to base my purchases on their perceived value. I’m always asking myself, was it worth it?
Here are some thoughts on what I bought recently. What was money well spent, and what gave me buyer’s remorse?
Mango oversized V-neck sweater and long-sleeve knitted tee
I always forget about Mango. I bought a denim skirt from there last summer, but other than that, it’s never been someplace that’s top of mind. I think it’s because I feel about Mango the way some people feel that shopping at Zara can be overwhelming. I was inspired to take another look after seeing
post about her Mango finds.
I’ve been looking for a light-coloured, oversized knit with a deep V-neck similar to this, and the Mango version was the closest one I could find within my budget. The sweater isn’t too thick, and I love how soft it feels. I can style it with and without a t-shirt underneath, which is exactly what I wanted.
Another good find was this long-sleeved knitted t-shirt. I got it in white, but it looks more like an off-white to me. It’s a good basic without being too basic because of the knit detail and crinkly trims. I like to wear it on its own or underneath a cardigan or button-up. Overall, both Mango tops impressed me with their quality and fit.
Zara navy blue wool knit sweater
When I started paying attention to the clothes I like to wear most often, I realized that lately, I prefer tops that are classic and simple. Pieces that may seem basic but appeal to me because they’re effortless, and I can repeat them in multiple ways with things I already own.
This Zara knit checks the boxes with its deep navy colour, ribbed crewneck and slim silhouette.
The sweater is a bit too short to tuck in, but it sits perfectly at the waist. I wear it often—casually with jeans and sometimes dressed up with black trousers.
Reformation Remy Knee Boots
I briefly mentioned buying these on sale in my previous Black Friday post but wanted to share more of my thoughts now that I’ve gotten some wear out of them. I love most things about these boots: the height, the quality, and the way they look with maxi skirts/dresses and jeans tucked into them. They’re gorgeous.
That being said, there’s no grip on the soles and there are no zippers, so they can be challenging to take off (I won’t lie, I’ve had to sometimes ask my friends and husband to help me take them off.) For me, those aren’t deal breakers, and I’m still happy with them, considering I got them on sale.
Babaton Pleated Corduroy Pants
I previously wrote about my obsession with corduroy pants and was so excited when I saw that the Babaton Pleated Corduroy Pants worn by @mimixn were on sale at Aritzia. Unfortunately, they just didn’t work out for me. The wide-leg style and pleats at the front were unflattering for my shorter frame. They also fit a little more like dress pants rather than the casual, laid-back style I was going for. I knew right away they would be a return.
Trader Joe’s finds
During a quick trip to Buffalo last month, we stopped by Trader Joe’s, which, if you’re Canadian like me, is a novelty, especially for the first time. We bought a bunch of holiday treats and an assortment of other snacky and condiment-y items. Favourites included the Cacio e Pepe Puffs, Dark Chocolate Bamba snacks (the kids loved these) and the Grilled Pitted Green Olives. But the best find of all was the Crunchy Chili Onion oil. We put it on everything from eggs to pizza and pasta to add some flavour and crunch.
What wasn’t worth it? The Mini (Almost) Everything Bagel Sandwich Crackers, Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Rings and Tiny Fruity Cuties Cereal—all bought specifically for the kids, and they weren’t fans of any of them.
Anyone but You
I can’t recall the last time I went to the movies to see a rom-com and actually enjoyed it. I grew up on classics like Sleepless in Seattle, My Best Friend’s Wedding and Fools Rush In, and they just don’t make them like they used to.
I had low expectations for Anyone but You and it ended up being a surprisingly entertaining watch. While I wouldn’t call it a classic, it certainly had the elements of one, including a cast of charming (and aesthetically-pleasing) characters, a cheesy-but-endearing plot line and lots of hijinks that make you laugh out loud. It’s not a movie that takes itself too seriously or tries to make a statement—it just leans into being a fun, guilty-pleasure rom-com.