What are the purchases that truly stand the test of time? The things you still use every day, the ones you would gladly buy again, even if they came with a hefty price tag? Reflecting on my own buying history has been surprisingly revealing. It helped me understand what has genuinely served me, what has been a real investment, and what has simplified or even transformed my life.
Here are the ones that stand out, big and small, yet all meaningful:
Photography school in Rome
After my first corporate job, I had managed (without much awareness at the time but mostly out of a good habit) to save some money. I decided to spend it on photography school in Rome, a choice that completely changed my life. I was ready to leave fashion (yes, fashion!) and pursue something new. Once there, I met incredible people, started creating my professional photography background, and, unexpectedly, met my life partner there. We both went on to build fulfilling careers in photography, with wonderful moments and successes along the way. Looking back, this was probably the single best investment I ever made.
My Cooking Chef and a small blender from Kenwood
I bought them over ten years ago, and I still use them almost daily — for soups, chopping vegetables, making doughs, crushing nuts, and so much more. They have lasted beautifully and allowed me to cook from scratch, avoiding processed foods while saving time and effort. I’m not doing any promotion, but I think Kenwood products are still made to last a long time – Kenwood-.
Choosing second-hand first
A few years ago, I began buying second-hand in a consistent, deliberate way, books, clothes, furniture. Now, it’s my first instinct. You save money, keep items in circulation (and out of landfills) and often find much better quality than what’s available new in stores. You can browse online shops such as Ebay, Vinted or local second-hand shops. An alternative that I adore are “free” shops. You can grab (and donate) without any money. For example, Dar Bazar, Rome, Italy. Do you have any of these shops around you?
Paying off our mortgage
This was life-changing. My husband and I made a conscious decision never to live with personal debt again. Paying off our house felt liberating, a deep breath of financial freedom we will always value.
Traveling whenever I could
When I was young and free, I traveled every chance I got. Those experiences were enriching and mind-opening. I’m grateful for adventures like driving Coast to Coast across the U.S. and exploring southern China in my twenties. Travel taught me more than I could have imagined.
Setting up a small sewing station
Creating a dedicated space to mend and make clothes has been deeply satisfying. It’s practical, creative, and helps me connect with the garments I own instead of replacing them. My favourite “mercerie” for little sewing accessories, is Bohin, their sewing needles are stil made in France in their factory.
Each of these purchases is personal and subjective but that’s exactly the point. Value isn’t just about price; it’s about impact. At times the most expensive thing isn’t the best. on the contrary, a costly object turns out to be invaluable because it changes your life. What matters is not the number on the receipt, but the meaning and lasting benefit behind it.
— The Green Frugalista
Further reading on the blog: The Frugal Living Lifestyle: Simple Ways to Spend Less, Waste Less and Enjoy More