This week’s blog topic was inspired by my dear friend Abel, who asked how to style outfits and be on trend on a budget. I have definitely touched on this topic before, but I am going to go a little more in-depth on tips on how to be stylish on a budget.
Contrary to what many think, it is definitely possible to be trendy while not spending an arm and a leg on clothing. There are numerous methods for shopping to build a stylish wardrobe, and I am going to touch on shopping techniques that can help build anyone’s closet successfully.
Firstly, if you are like me and love unique pieces and high-end designer items, shop like I do; I treat clothing and shopping as a hobby and act of collecting. I buy one nice garment or piece each paycheck, and from there my wardrobe grows and becomes full of more quality pieces. Shopping and building a wardrobe does not have to mean you have to spend an entire day at the mall and look for three new outfits at once. Do not force shopping for clothing - simply purchase things you like when you come across them. Also, if shopping for less items at a time with more high-end labels, do your research on the brands to make sure they are durable and you are getting your money’s worth. You do not want buyer’s remorse on an expensive item that you do not really like anyway.
Of course, another method for shopping on a budget is to thrift. You can find some wonderful goods at local shops. I highly recommend Buffalo Exchange, because they encourage shoppers to purchase items that are on-trend. I also see a bunch of higher end pieces at Buffalo Exchange, you just have to do your research on brands to know what you are purchasing. I once found a Ted Baker blouse for $32 that is normally about $119 at Buffalo (of course, the employees there told me that is still a steep price in comparison to their other merchandise, but it was quite the steal).
And again, you do not need to venture out and try to find a whole new wardrobe in one trip. You will come home with items you do not even like. Always take your time and hunt for quality items.
Online stores and even smaller indie brands that run most of their marketing through Instagram are also wonderful ways to save money on finding new garments. These indie shops will run sales quite often to keep traffic up. Keep an eye out for up-and-coming brands through instagram, handmade brands through Etsy, and any small business garment retailer that runs clearance and sales often.
Also, most brick-and-mortar department stores post new clearance sales about once a month, and digging through those racks is always worth it.
My overall argument when it comes to being stylish on a budget that can work for any shopping method is to take your time when clothing shopping. Do not force yourself to purchase garments you do not really like just for the sake of having another garment. Style and fashion are modes of collecting, always keep your shopping experiences enjoyable.
Thanks for reading!
Lorraine