How to be a Fashionista on a Budget

Keeping fashionable and staying under a specific budget can be difficult but not impossible. Here are some great ideas of how to find those fabulous finds at a lower price.

Do Your Research. Knowing what looks good on you is important. Just because it’s in your local magazine or you saw it on someone else doesn’t mean it’s for you. Be honest with yourself about your body. You will save lots of money and time.

Clean that closet! Fashionista’s with limited budgets should follow the 70/30 rule: 70% of your closet should be classic pieces, 30% trendy pieces. Go as cheap as possible on the trendy items because they have a short closet lifespan. These items are good to get from stores like H&M, Target, Forever 21, Wet Seal, Zara, Bluefly, Urban Outfitters and many more! Go more designer on your classic pieces like black suits, Coats and evening gowns.

Be friendly when you’re shopping at your local retailer. Its important to get to know your sales associate. When you take the time to be kind and get to know them they are more apt to help you out. Remember, they know about all the up coming sales and deals. They might just give you the inside scoop!

Be strategic. Shop at the outlets or discounted stores. Make a day our of it and take the girl friends. Not only are you shopping at a discounted price you are also getting some great, honest advice on the items you try on.

Shopping on line can save you time and money. Some companies offer free shipping if you order on line. If it doesn’t work out you can return it to the store or just send it back and they credit your account. Many retailers only keep a selected amount of merchandise in their stores and then the rest they just advertise on line. So before you leave the house check on line and see if there are any extra deals or coupons going on.

Shop Out of Season
For the lowest prices on accessories, shop out of season. For example, boots and other winter accessories are usually cheapest in spring, while sunglasses and summer accessories are less expensive in fall. Also look for special sales around major holidays.

Visit Thrift Shops
You can locate treasures from decades gone by at thrift shops and vintage clothing stores in your local area. Here you can find jewelry, handbags and other accessories at discount prices. If you don’t mind used accessories, you can find some real steals and might add some character to your wardrobe at the same time.

Join your local Freecycle group where you can find things people are giving away, as well as pass on items you no longer use.
www.freecycle.org

Author: Kelly Diven