Earlier in the year, I wrote a blog post about how I was attempting a low buy for 2026. And with us now being halfway through the year, I thought that I would assess how it's went.
So, today I'm sharing how I've been getting on with my plan, and whether or not the purchases that I did make were worth it.
January
Did I predict that TK Maxx would be an issue for my low buy? Yes. Yet, when I saw this bow embroidered hat, I knew that it if I left it behind it wouldn't be there the next time that I went shopping. Basically, if you don't snap something up as soon as you see it at TK Maxx, you'll then spend weeks, or likely forever, searching for it. So, while it's not the most conducive to my low buy rules and shopping plans more generally, at least if I buy something from there I have 30 days to decide whether or not I want to keep it.
I've already gotten so much wear out of this, as it has an almost velvety/flocked feel to it, making it more appropriate for the spring and autumn/winter than some of my other summer caps.
February
My parents always give me £50 for my birthday and that just so happened to coincide with Urban Outfitters in the US restocking their limited edition polka dot Baggu collection. As you can only get those prints in the US, I did have to have it shipped over to the UK, and I've counted the shipping and fees in my final total. But, as someone who wholeheartedly believes that polka dots are a neutral, I was beyond happy to get my hands on the Medium Crescent Bag in the black polka dot colourway.
Not only does it fit more than you might imagine (including an iPad, if you needed to carry it for work), but it works so well with basically every outfit that I have worn since getting it.
March
Oh, TK Maxx you got me again, and that wasn't the last time either. I always have a quick perusal of the dresses section during the spring/summer months, and when I saw a gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch maxi dress for £19.99 I did umm and ahh about buying it. But I know it will serve me well at some point. I also adored the interesting print and how well it fit me.
Have I worn it yet? No. However, I know it will work nicely for a trip away or maybe even an event or press day one day soon.
April
I'll admit it, I saw 101 people wearing polka dot jackets on my social feeds and I wanted in on the action. But, as I say, polka dot is not a trend for me, and will be something that I will wear for years and years to come. The shape and it being so oversized is a bit different for me, but it will work alongside so many outfits.
I haven't had a chance to wear it too much, as I was away in May and then it's been a bit humid since I got back. However, I know it will come in real handy during the transitional months of autumn and spring.
Again, I kind of couldn't resist this polka dot jumpsuit from TK Maxx. Sense a literal pattern with me? £12.99 felt like a great price, especially when it's now a struggle to even get a top for that kind of price these days. The polka dot lover in me was thrilled and it also has a bit of a unique back, which cemented my decision.
I have been meaning to add a few new jumpsuits to my wardrobe, as they're one of my favourite things to wear year-round, because of how easy they are to throw on.
May
I did actually purchase this adorable butter yellow bag to take with me to Roland Garros. However, after it quickly became apparent that I would need to carry a handheld fan, separate face and body SPFs, and a water bottle, alongside my purse, passport, and other bits and bobs, that was never going to happen.
But, as someone who mostly wears larger cross bodies, like the Baggu, it's nice to have a smarter and slightly different bag. And it doesn't hurt that it's a beautiful (and on trend) colour, too.
Now, I know buying no physical books was high on my low buy list this year, but technically this purchase was part of an event ticket. An event I wasn't able to attend because of an IBS flare up, but an event nonetheless. I'm also always so happy to support Rachel and the wonderful team at Rare Birds Book whenever I can, and with Annie Knows Everything being my first five-star read of the year, I had to press buy.
I'm also obsessed with the little limited edition tote bag that came with my order. It's already came in so handy quite a few times.
June
Travelling to Mallorca and Paris in May, and exclusively rewearing items that I already had in my wardrobe had me itching to add a few new pieces for future trips, which is how June became a bit of a spendy one. First up was a blue version of a dress that I already get so much wear out of. You might have seen it quite a few times on my Instagram over the years and in my Paris recap. So, when I spotted it in a different colour and a nice bright one that, it made a lot of sense to grab it. It going on sale made that decision even easier.
And even though the sleeves are not as puffy as my black dress, it still has a similar look and feel, which I love. I know this will be a staple over the next few years, like the black version already has.
Finally, we have one more dress. I used to buy quite a lot from New Look, whereas it's a bit more hit or miss these days. Yet, this dress was giving Damson Madder for under £30. With a linen feel to it, shirring, and, of course, the polka dots and bows, this made it a slam dunk in my eyes.
Am I itching to plan/book another holiday before the end of the year so I can wear it soon? You bet.
So, there you have it. And I have to say, I think I've done quite well. The only other items on my wishlist at the moment are the Uniqlo x Cecilie Bahnsen red and gingham dresses. Do I need both? I might wait it out and see if they're discounted at some point, as I don't really need to be spending £100 on two dresses at the moment, that's for sure.
Have you ever tried or wanted to try a low or no buy? And which category would be your biggest weakness (books, beauty, fashion or all of the above)?
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