Staying trendy and fashionable can be a challenge especially when separated from what’s current by an ever-shrinking budget. But don’t fret! There are plenty of ways to stay up-to-date on the latest trends without breaking the bank. With an eye for style and a knack for bargain-hunting, fashion on a budget is completely possible. Read on for our tips on navigating affordable clothing shopping.
1. Be Financially Savvy: Tactical Shopping Strategies for Thrifty Fashionistas
Shopping for clothes can be an expensive affair. However, you don’t have to break your budget in order to be stylish. Here are a few tactical strategies to help you look fashionable, without breaking the bank.
Shop Secondhand
Buying pre-owned clothes may not sound particularly glamorous, but it’s an excellent way to save some money while finding unique pieces. You can save money and help the environment by shopping thrift stores or consignment stores. You may be surprised to find items of incredible quality that are readily available at a fraction of their original retail price.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is a great tool to ensure that you don’t overspend. Whether shopping online or in-store, make a list of items you plan on purchasing and stick to it. Research possible discounts and codes that can be used to get the best deal, but make sure you are current on any sale information by following your favorite stores and brands on social media.
Focus on Basics
Your wardrobe basics are what build up your look, so focus your shopping on items that can be used year-round. Nail down the essentials, like plain tees, chinos, or fitted blazers, and add touches of color, texture, or pattern as desired to make the looks your own. Quality basics can be costly, so consider buying them at classic stores like The Gap or Banana Republic that often have sales at the end of each season.
Act on Deals
If you see something that you really like on sale, buy it now. There’s always the chance that the item could rise in price, or could even run out of stock completely. Take advantage of sign-up and loyalty programs for additional discounts or rewards. Plus, if you keep an eye out for significant sales seasonally, you’ll be able to stock up on key pieces or trendy pieces before the higher-price interval arrives.
Fill in the Gaps
Once you’ve stocked up on key pieces, now it is time to ensure your wardrobe meets its full potential. Think of how you can add items like jewelry, handbags, and scarves to create a bigger impact in each look. Invest in timeless pieces that will stand the test of time, and splurge on items where there’s a true quality difference that’s worth the price.
2. Brighten Your Wardrobe on a Budget: Where to Find Low-Cost Clothing
If you are someone who loves fashion but just can’t find the budget for it, fear not! There are so many thrifty options out there that you can stay stylish on a budget. Here are a few of the best places to find low-cost clothing that will brighten up your wardrobe.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores can be treasure troves filled with fashion gems. Shopping at thrift stores can help you save a lot of money. Because they are a donation based model, there are always new items in stock making each thrift trip a different experience. Just make sure to check for any quality issues or damages before purchasing.
Online Shopping
The internet is a treasure trove of second hand and even new clothing items that will not break the bank. You can find a plethora of online stores selling items much cheaper than retail prices. eBay, Amazon and even popular online stores like Boohoo have amazing discounts you won’t want to miss.
Vintage Boutiques
Vintage boutiques often contain rare and unique pieces that even the thrift stores don’t have. What’s great about vintage boutiques is that they are full of quality garments that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Prices are often much lower than retail stores and may even be negotiable with the shopkeeper.
Garage Sales
Garage sales are perhaps the least explored source of clothing items which are ridiculously inexpensive. Since lots of people dump clothes that they’re no longer using, you will find amazing pieces with the possibility of haggling the prices down even further.
As-Is Racks at Department Stores
Department stores often have ‘As-Is’ racks that can give you great deals. Make sure to check for any damages and always ask for further discounts. You may be able to find designer labels on these racks at discounted prices with just a little bit of searching.
Discount Websites
Discount websites like Groupon and DealsPlus offer great deals on a plethora of items. What’s great about these sites is that they run discounts on a lot of online stores. You can find unique items at some amazing prices with just a few clicks.
Finding low-cost clothing can take a bit of work, but it can be done. Next time when you decide to splurge, remember to check out a few of these places for some great options because who says you can’t stay fashionable on a budget?
3. Swap and Save: Making the Most of Clothing Exchange Programs
Clothing exchange programs provide a novel solution for reducing your fashion footprint. By joining a local exchange program, you can reduce, reuse and recycle in style. Here’s how:
- Share Your Style: Do you have that dress you only wear for special occasions, but just can’t part with? Trade it in for something new-to-you. Or, if you no longer have need of a dress you’ve owned for years, give it to someone who can breathe new life into it.
- Find New Favourites: Clothing exchange programs make it easy to shop without breaking the bank. Depending on the exchange, you may even be able to trade in some items in exchange for others. You could end up with a whole new wardrobe for no money out of pocket!
- Ditch the Guilt: We want to look good, but don’t always want a toll on our environment. Clothing exchanges provide an opportunity for guilt-free shopping. Even if you’re the type of person who loves to shop, you don’t have to be part of the problem. In fact, you can be part of the solution.
Refashioning existing garments has been around for centuries, but the idea of clothing exchange programs has caught on in recent years. From special ‘swap shops’ in big cities to online communities, these programs make it easier than ever to share previously-loved clothes.
In addition to giving long-time favourites a second chance to shine, clothing exchange programs can offer a unique way for fashionistas everywhere to stay on trend. With a wide selection of clothing items to select from, you can find the perfect pieces to spice up any wardrobe.
Before you start swapping, make sure you do your research. Check out the terms of the exchange and read up on any specific guidelines that may be in place. Clothing exchange programs can provide a great way to help the planet, but only if you make sure to play by the rules.
4. Accessorize: Elevate Your Look with Cheap Chic Accessories
It’s easier than ever to amp up an outfit with the right accessories for any occasion. Cheap chic accessories have certainly made their way to the fashion iteration and the right pieces can create the perfect look. Whether you’re aiming for head-to-toe sparkle or need a signature piece to make an ensemble pop, here are four ways to make an accessory-inspired statement at an affordable price.
- Statement Necklaces: Stand out and choose a chic statement necklace to wear at a gathering. Eye-catching and unique necklaces draw attention to your face, amp up any ensemble, and make for great conversation starters!
- Statement Earrings: Aside from the chicness of a statement necklace, a colorful pair of statement earrings also adds glamour and will no doubt evoke admiration from onlookers.
- Head wrappers: Channel your inner fashionable diva with a stylish pre-tied head wrap that is comfortable to wear and can spice up any outfit you choose.
- Handbag: Complete your look with a classic clutch or handbag. A handbag is a great way to carry your everyday essentials and can also be a stylish element to add to your outfit.
From cocktail parties to an outing with friends, incorporate any of these trends to make your style bold and be a trendsetter in affordable chic. No matter what look you’re going for, chic accessories can dress up any outfit—all without breaking the bank.
So make sure to pick the right accessories for any occasion and accessorize with cheap chic pieces for additional impact. You’ll jazz up your look without spending a fortune, and everyone will take notice and comment on your sharp style.
Leveraging fashion on a budget is a great way to look your best while stretching your financial resources. With a little bit of shopping savvy and the key tips discussed in this article, you’ll be a fashionable and savvy budget shopper in no time!
