Hi Nancy,
I hear you. Starting your own life apart from your parents is a point that we all have to come to at some part of our lives. So, good luck to you in exploring your independence. With that said, just put your money into perspective. You say that you have the funds to buy more expensive pieces. But, that does not mean that you
must go out and purchase high price items. Go for a bargain (thrift/vintage shops, department stores). Check out my article
Shopping Made Easy. I address this very issue on paying full price on items versus bargain shopping.