Being stylish is an excellent way to express yourself and let your personality shine. However, keeping up with the latest fashion trends and regularly updating your wardrobe can be a costly endeavor. Fortunately, there are several creative and clever ways to stay fashionable without breaking the bank.
Keep reading to find out how to stay stylish and trendy without spending a fortune.
1. Set a Clothing Budget
Setting a realistic wardrobe budget is essential to stay out of debt while maintaining a good sense of style. Your monthly budget will depend on your specific circumstances. However, if you want some advice, most financial experts recommend that your whole clothing budget not exceed 5% of your take-home income — for both work and casual outfits. While you don’t need to completely restrict indulgences, make sure you don't go overboard.
Moreover, establishing a budget for your clothing ensures you only buy what you need. Aside from helping you avoid impulse buying, sticking to a budget brings out your inner stylist, helping you make better shopping choices.
2. Buy Pre-Loved Items
Research shows people can save and earn hundreds of dollars by switching to secondhand clothing. According to a 2022 survey by Depop, 53% of shoppers said they have been buying more secondhand items to save money as the cost of living rises. The study also revealed that 18 to 35-year-olds in the UK could earn an additional £535 (or US$634) every year by buying and selling secondhand fashion.
Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Poshmark are treasure troves of unique, vintage apparel at incredible rates. You can find statement pieces like designer bags, trendy clothes, and high-end accessories in excellent condition.
3. Invest in High-Quality Basics
Instead of buying a bunch of inexpensive outfits that you'll only wear once or twice, invest in a handful of statement pieces you can wear multiple times. Pick timeless classics like a white shirt, a crewneck sweater, tailored pants, a well-fitted pair of jeans, and a classy black dress that complement your body shape.
The great thing about investing in quality classics is that you don't have to go high-end, and you can usually find these items on sale. Great basics provide you with countless outfit combinations and pair nicely with unique pieces, giving your wardrobe a lot of character.
4. Mix and Match
Another fantastic approach to staying trendy on a budget is to mix and match the items you have in your closet. You don’t need to overhaul your entire wardrobe every season — simply switch up the pieces you already own.
You can dress up or down basic items depending on the occasion, giving you limitless possibilities with what you already have. By switching out your blazer for a cardigan and your heels for sneakers, you can change your look from one for work to one for a weekend road trip.
5. Get Creative with Accessories
Accessories are a terrific way to refresh your style without having to buy new clothes. A hat, a scarf, a pair of statement earrings, or a nice watch can easily elevate your outfit. You can instantly spruce up any look with some imagination and the perfect combination of accessories. Just be sure to choose pieces that match your personal style and clothing.
6. Look for Discounts and Clearance Sales
Be on the lookout for clearance sales and offers at your favorite stores, and sign up for email newsletters to learn about upcoming promotions. You can also buy clothes from factory outlets where manufacturers sell surplus stock directly and at a discount. Also, the prices of out-of-season clothing are often slashed, giving you the opportunity to buy high-priced items for much less. Lastly, don't forget to look for coupons and promo codes you can use when shopping online.
7. Skip the Credit Card
One of the last things you want to do is run up debt by charging all your fashion purchases on credit cards. If you can't pay off the balance in full when your bill is due, don’t swipe and splurge on retail therapy. Otherwise, paying high interest on your debt will cost you more than any exquisite ensemble is worth.
Instead of whipping out your card, open a dedicated savings account to save for that chic Burberry jacket, sleek Hermes handbag, or anything else you want to add to your wardrobe.
8. Learn How to DIY
You can save money by learning to sew, dye, or customize your clothes and accessories. This can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your outfits. Check out the latest DIY fashion ideas to help you level up your style without going on a spending spree.
Look Stylish Every Day without Spending a Fortune
With a little discipline and creativity, you can always look stylish and put together — regardless of your financial situation. By keeping an eye on deals and discounts, using what you already own, and making smart choices when shopping online, you can stay fashionable without falling into debt.