Fashionista Friday: Budget Fashion

Who doesn't love shopping?  If you don't love it, I don't understand you.

Photo courtesty of photostock; FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Although I'd love to have a handful of shopping bags every week, it just isn't realistic.  So how can we recycle and save on clothing?

Shop Discount Stores

Look around at the Salvation Army, Goodwill, or consignment shops.  Stop being a snob about where you shop.  I had the snob problem for quite awhile, but Neonatal Nurse Nancy, wonderful friend that she is, got me out of the groove and into the glory of buys that you just can't beat. 

I've found like-new sundresses that cost $150 for $7.99.  I have a beautiful Columbia down coat in white that is in perfect condition, also $7.99.  I have purchased countess items from the favorite brand-name stores, all for pennies on the new-cost dollar.

Photo courtesy of Grant Cochrane; FreeDigitalPhotos.net

I once shopped a really long time in the Salvation Army on 50% off day (once a week, check your local store) and left with 17 items I had paid $42 for.  Shazaaaam!  And this was not a one time occurrence....I get deals like that frequently.



Sell Your Old Stuff

Whether you choose consignment, ebay, Craigslist, or an Amazon shop, the ways to sell your old stuff are plentiful.  Just get rid of what you don't love or what doesn't fit.  Your trash is treasure to someone out there, so get it listed and get something for it.  You can earmark the proceeds from the sales for new clothing purchases.  This is especially useful for children's clothes.

Accessorize Old Favorites

Accessorizing can update outfits in a flash.  Spending a little money in a new season on a couple of updated belts and scarves, bold jewelry and a pair of shoes can stretch far in your closet.

Try wearing things paired in ways you have not before; belt jackets and see how you like the new look.  Update with costume jewelry or a great scarf in the color of the moment, and you'll look and feel fresh without breaking the bank.

*For this spring, grab a clutch handbag and some sea-blue chunky jewelry.  Your wedge sandals are still hot, so you should be ready to go in a flash!

Don't Spend on Weird Colors

I'm serious.  If you absolutely have to have a puke-green item of clothing, don't spend a lot of money on it.  "Off" colors come and go very quickly and are the easiest way to date your look.  Instead, go for neutrals when you are spending a little more cash or purchasing something like a coat.  Khaki, navy, black, white, denim, chocolate, gray...those neutral colors will see you through many seasons.