How to Dress Trendy on a Budget
A tight budget does not mean that you must pass on looking good. Planning your wardrobe and shopping strategically can free you up to make creative and economic fashion decisions. Rather than feeling limited by your budget, you can make the most of it by scoping out the wide array of reasonably priced clothing available from multiple venues and purchased at different times of the year.
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Instructions
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Focus on a few key pieces. To keep costs down, buy a few top and bottom items that you can wear in several combinations. Use what is already in your closet to create an outfit that is trendy and fits your budget; if the style is boot-cut denim, match it with T-shirts you already have. The popular button-up blouses can be paired with the neutral skirts that you wear every season.
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Purchase items at discount stores. Trends show up in stores that cater to all budgets; focus on a few retailers that sell clothing at prices you can afford. After you have a group of stores selected, comparison-shop to get the best price. Sign up for store newsletters to take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts.
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Shop at the beginning of the season. Avoid end-of-season sales if you want to remain trendy; even if the price is cheap, it is too high if you never wear the clothing. Often, deeply discounted items are those that are going out of style. Frequent these sales only if you will get something that you can wear for seasons to come.
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Look for well-made clothes. Clothing should have strong stitching with no loose threads. Seams should have been rolled before they were sewn and should not be jagged. In pants, look for waistbands with two layers of lining that will hold up under pressure. Before making a purchase, ensure the piece fits well; squat in pants and choose a jacket with shoulders that provide ease of movement. Well-made clothes require replacement less frequently. The joy of getting a deal on a trend is tempered when a seam rips a few weeks later, forcing you to pay for repairs or buy something new.
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Shop in thrift stores. Clothing on the racks of vintage stores is cheaper than new items, and the age of the pieces is proof that they are well-made. Thrift stores stock unique items that can be worn in combinations to create a personal style. Because trends are cyclical, you are likely to find something secondhand that is in style today. You will also find standard pieces that transcend fashion trends, such as black pants or a black dress, in thrift stores.
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References
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