Fashion On A Budget - Spend Less, Look Great
Written by Carla Lowe - Monday, 08 September 2008
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 Less is more when you get creative. Are you harboring an inner fashionista who’s dying to get out, but your empty wallet/bank account won’t let her? Despair not: you don’t need to give up entirely on trying to look good.
There is such a thing as fashion on a budget; accordingly, here are a few tips for you to spend less money yet look more fashionable and stylish than you normally do.
Take your time
Far too often, women try to shop for clothes and accessories when they don’t really have the time (lunch break, while running errands, with the kids in tow, etc.). What often happens is that you either 1) end up with clothes you found at a super deal but you don’t really want, or 2) buy a great outfit that you love but can’t afford. So what usually happens next? You return the clothes.
You’re wasting your time and your money by speed-shopping. Instead, plan ahead a time for you to shop for clothes/accessories and don't plan to do anything else during this time period. Take a whole weekend afternoon or weekday evening. Go alone or with a girlfriend—leave the kids and/or partner at home. You do not want to feel rushed. This way, you can find clothes that you love and that are affordable.
 Accessorize
Don’t have funds for those new designer jeans or that trendy, must-have jacket? Liven and freshen up your current wardrobe with some great accessories instead. Shoes and handbags fall on the more expensive end, but you could also try jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, etc.), scarves, and belts for a fun new look—and they won’t cost you a fortune.
Go secondhand
There’s nothing wrong with shopping at used clothing stores, discount stores, garage sales, and flea markets. Again, make sure you have some time carved out, and don’t buy something just because it’s cheap or cute—try it on and make sure it will complement your wardrobe.
Save
It sounds simple, but by simply and intentionally saving up some money for your next fashion purchase, you’ll ensure the money is there and you won’t feel guilty for buying something beautiful for yourself.
Swap
Got some fashion-minded friends who are roughly your size? Consider clothing-swapping with them every once in awhile—it’s a free, and fun, way to update your wardrobe. Organize a large swap meet if you can find enough pals who are interested.
Sew
Are you a whiz on the sewing machine? If so, the fashion world is your oyster, as you can purchase some fabric and make your own clothes. If that task sounds a bit too daunting, or maybe sewing isn’t a strong skill of yours, you can still update your look by making a few homemade changes to your clothes (shortening a skirt, turning jeans to a pair of capris, adding or removing bows, ruffles, buttons, zippers, etc.).
Fashion on a budget is very manageable if you put in a little time, thought, and creativity. Have fun with your new clothes and ideas!
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