We all have moments of indecision: should I go out on a limb and splurge on a luxury item/activity or should I stay on the straight-and-narrow? There’s an argument on both sides. It’s a good idea to be budgetary-minded, but it’s also smart to break out every so often and buy or do something you really crave.
For most of us, our attitude towards money comes from our parents. Author Suze Orman claims that our “money personality” is heavily influenced by our upbringing. Did you have an allowance that you were told to spend wisely? As a teenager, were you dying for a part-time job so you could earn extra dollars that you were allowed to keep? Full disclosure: I sold goldfish in Woolworth’s when I was 15-years-old.
These are factors that are important when you are an adult. Now let’s take a closer look at money + spending and when to take the plunge. Most important: always remember that splurging should be done within a budget.
THE LUXURY PURCHASE
We all know what’s on the list: red-soled Christian Louboutin stilettos, a Gucci bamboo strap handbag, the Cartier Tank Americaine, a classic Burberry trench, a dazzling Hermes scarf – all major league purchases that make one feel great. If you feel you can afford to buy one of these costly items without jeopardizing your well-thought-out budget – then why not? You only live once.
The Gucci bamboo strap handbag The Cartier Tank Americaine
THE COSTLY VACATION
Have you always dreamed about seeing the sunrise over Machu Picchu, visiting faraway Patagonia, enjoying the frenetic energy of Hong Kong or tackling the Australian outback? Then it’s time to bite the bullet and do it. Keep in mind, for both luxury purchases and exotic travel there’s always the tried-and-true approach: simply cut back on day-to-day expenditures and save your money for the big event.
The Australian outback
THE FOOD BREAKOUT
When Penélope Cruz, the Oscar-winning actress and Lancôme ambassador was asked what she splurged on, she replied, “For me, it’s not money – it’s calories. And, it would be tortilla Española, the Spanish omelet with fried potato and egg. Delicious.”
For me personally, it would be the French “Napoleon” pastry that checks in at 350 calories. Wow! Again, if you’re in a splurge food mood, just do it. Tomorrow can be another yogurt or salad day.
The French “Napoleon” pastry
THE JEWELRY URGE
We’re hearing that women are now buying their own expensive jewelry. That’s great. Nothing beats a pair of diamond stud earrings from Tiffany’s to make a girl feel terrific. “We buy our own bling these days,” says one female executive sporting an eye-catching diamond necklace. Or, as Manuel Carrera, founder of the jewelry firm Carrera y Carrera says, “The contemporary woman doesn’t need to wait for a man to buy her jewelry.”
Tiffany’s diamond stud earrings
MAY WE SUGGEST…
Why not splurge on an item that no one can see BUT will make you feel marvelous? Take a look at our selection of stretch undies and thongs made from our special lightweight Italian fabric. In particular, we love ADEA’s black or white culotte with its sexy lace trim.
- Shaun
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