How to Shop for Wardrobe Basics on a Budget

When you have limited funds for a new suit, a white blouse, a winter sweater, a navy blazer or a little black dress, relax. It may take a little time and effort, but between seasonal sales, retail outlets, secondhand shops and rummage sales, you're sure to find great basics tailored to your budget.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Men's Casual Tops
• Men's Dress Belts
• Men's Dress Shirts
• Men's Dress Sweater
• Men's Suits
• Mens' Dress Pants
• Sports Coat
• Women's Casual Tops
• Women's Dress Coats
• Women's Dress Pants
• Women's Dress Shirts
• Women's Suits
• dresses and skirts

1. Learn the sale cycle of your favorite boutique or department store. End-of-season sales usually occur in January and July, while the back-to-school season and major holidays boast good reductions on selected merchandise.

2. Consider the vintage, consignment and secondhand shops in your area. Dig through the bins and sift through the crowded racks where basic, high-quality and well-priced pieces await.

3. Spend a day at the outlet stores in your area. Visit all the shops that carry the items that interest you, put pieces on hold, then tally up the day's finds to see what fits into your budget.

4. Scour garage sales. Many people put it all in their driveway when they've had enough, and one man's junk can be another's treasure.

5. Take advantage of promotions that offer additional discounts on multiple-item purchases. Stock up on hosiery, underwear and button-down shirts.

6. Sign up to receive e-mail from your favorite online retailers. Let them come to you with information about closeouts, sales and special deals.

Tips & Warnings

• Always examine secondhand merchandise for damage, including stains, tears, splitting seams, moth holes, broken zippers and missing buttons.
• Many stores and outlets offer free alterations. Ask a sales associate for details.
• Check return policies. Many sale items are final.

[trtlelv1979]

on 1/31/2008 If you really are on a budget..you really need to look at what you got in your closet first, choose the pieces that look the best on you then determine what you need to purchase to add to your wardrobe. Be creative, add the accessories and add layers. Building a wardrobe (especially on a budget) doesn't mean "go out and swipe the plastic and still end up with nothing to wear."

on 8/8/2006 Never pay retail for anything. Wait a little while for what you want to go on clearance sale. Plus you'll be less likely to buy something trendy. Check out consignment and Goodwill shops for good buys. Don't buy trendy, it's usually a waste of money. Try discount department stores before the department stores. You never know where you will find your bargains, so keep your eyes open.

on 6/30/2006 When trying to find shorts that aren't too short, try the men's section. Or if you're small, the boys' section. Just make sure that if you find some you like they don't have that extra gape at the front.

on 11/22/2005 Mixing and matching pricier clothing with cheaper options can stretch that wardrobe dollar.
For example:
Watch by Swiss Army (pricey)
Shoes by Donald Pliner/Kenneth Cole shoes (sorta pricey)
Blazer from Gap/Penney's (less pricey)
Jeans from Old Navy (even less pricey)
Graphic T from Target or WalMart (Cheap) All found on sale or clearance of course.

on 11/22/2005 Find clothing at more expensive stores that you like and search for a similar look alike at Gap or Penney's. Once a look has become popular there are tons of places that carry their version for a lot less.