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How much, on average, do you spend annually on clothes and accessories?

If the current issues of any number of fashion magazines are any indication, there is a big difference between fantasy-land clothes prices and the average person's reality. A lot of it may depend on whether or not you live an urban, more corporate lifestyle, versus the smalltown/non-corporate lifestyle. Or, clothes might be key for your work or social standing. There may also be a general difference between the prices women on the west and east coasts have come to expect, and what women in middle-America will tolerate.

These days the environmental and labor law issues also come into play and can influence women's buying behavior. Some might pay more for "eco-responsible" jeans, and others might pay more for t-shirts made in America.

As per the recent SheSpeaks blog post A Brand New Car or A Handbag, a lot of you find the Louis Vuitton $45,000 handbag a bit much. So, do you live in fantasy fashion-land?

$500 or less|Kids/household and other expenses seem to come first, for now (45.8%)

In the $1000 to $1500 range|I buy staples and a few nicer things throughout the year (36.0%)

More than $1500, but less than $5000|I have a lifestyle that demands I look my best (15.5%)

More than $5,000 - Sky is the limit|I love designer lines and shop frequently (2.5%)

How much, on average, d…
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25
  • lyndaKu By lyndaKu
    on Jun 26, 2007  

    I tend to go through spurts through-out the year. Then I buy one or 2 really nice outfits, but stay with the basics that can be matched with each other.

    I work at home, but have to go on appointments sometimes. You only have one chance to make a "First Impression".

  • michalann By michalann
    on Jun 26, 2007  

    I have my classics and then fill in around the edges with consignment store wear. That way I can satisfy my desire for variety without breaking the bank

  • teach2007 By teach2007
    on Jun 27, 2007  

    I am a teacher, so I buy clothes that are washable. I don't invest in expensive pieces, since they can easily be ruined on the job. I do invest in good shoes since I am on my feet all day.

  • tichon By tichon
    on Jun 27, 2007  

    I work in downtown San Francisco, and while my work attire is completely casual, being this close to so much great shopping is DANGEROUS. However, I TRY to stick with the basics and add a few fun pieces throughout the year. I have better things to spend my money on.

  • rabidbadger By rabidbadger
    on Jun 27, 2007  

    I'm on disability, on a fixed income, so the only time I actually buy new clothes is when the ones I have are falling to pieces. I just recently bought two nightgowns online from Roaman's for $22. (it was a buy one, get one free deal). First new clothing I've purchased in probably 2-3 years.

  • TRACYJEN By TRACYJEN
    on Jun 27, 2007  

    i love to purchase things at ross or tj max to get lots more for my money

  • bmoyn13284 By bmoyn13284
    on Jun 28, 2007  

    I prefer to buy used clothing. I know it won't shrink or fall apart after being washed the first time like some of the expensive clothes I've purchased. Oh and they are a lot cheaper

  • gacon By gacon
    on Jun 28, 2007  

    I used to spend a lot of money on clothes and shoes. No more after kids. I want to be able to cuddle them without worrying that they may ruin my clothes or worry that my accessories (necklace, brooch...) may hurt them.

  • vlamommy By vlamommy
    on Jun 28, 2007  

    I tend to spend quite a bit on clothing each year. My husband loves to hunt, and now my daughter has started. The gear certainly gets expensive. Also, my daughter is a teenager now, and loves her wardrobe!! With the changing seasons and growing children, it seems like we're always needing something!

  • syvannab By syvannab
    on Jun 30, 2007  

    Give me the vintage! I love to buy used clothing.. I agree w/ eariler comment fits and just feels better.I seem to find great deals and find new items sometimes in these used stores. I love it and love giving my stuff away when im done w/ them. Of course I buy my new stuff but not before I check out the used stores.lol.