“I want to look good without spending a lot of money. What’s the
best way to use my clothing budget?”
This question – or variations thereof – regularly hits my inbox
from readers all over the world. While we may not all speak the
same language, there are a few things upon which we can all
agree that make us take leave of our senses: rich chocolate,
handsome men, and clothes that are too cute to leave behind at
the store.
So what’s a gal to do, particularly when she’s been saddled with
champagne tastes on a beer budget?
First, set down those glossy fashion magazines and back away
from them slowly. They can be dangerous, particularly if you
don’t know how to use them. $700 pants? $500 shoes? Who can
afford to buy these things? Not many! Look at what’s popular,
swipe some styling ideas, then go replicate the looks in prices
that you can afford.
Secondly, start viewing any “must have” list with healthy
skepticism. These are the latest trends that the designers are
showing that will be dated by this time next year. Some will be
cute, true, but others will only be cute on the models that show
them. Once you learn what looks good on you and what doesn’t,
you’ll be a lot less susceptible to buying what others say you
“must have” each season.
Finally, invest in classic pieces that work well on your body.
It’s the single best way to get the most mileage out of your
clothing budget, because you can wear classic styles for several
years without ever looking dated. Top a classic base with a
trendy accessory, and you’ll look “au courant” without going in
the red.
So what exactly ARE classic styles, and how do you know one when
you see it?
Classics are styles that have been popular for years because of
their clean lines and utilitarian features. While trends are
instantly recognizable by length, pattern, or decoration,
classics transcend time with their cut, style, and fabric. They
can be worn alone, layered, dressed up or dressed down, and can
be made to look current by adding something trendy.
Examples of classics include:
Jeans
Turtleneck
Cardigan
T-shirt
Sleeveless Sheath
Tailored Jacket
Crisp shirt
Trench Coat
Kelly bag
Penny loafer
There are some years when these styles are more popular and some
years when they’re less, but they continue to sell well because
they fit a variety of body types and offer a simple, unfussy
silhouette. Get them in basic, solid colors, and you can wear
them for years to come.
But won’t you get bored with the “same old thing?”
Only if you have no imagination.
The neat thing about classics is that they not only look great
all by themselves, they serve as a wonderful backdrop to
flashier pieces. Add a snazzy jacket, funky hosiery, or a great
pair of shoes, and you’ll be able to brilliantly showcase the
new piece using your classic staples as a backdrop.
Your friends, family, and coworkers will think you spend a
fortune on your clothes, when in reality you’re merely adding a
few “to die for” pieces each year. It’s a clever way to expand
your wardrobe choices without overspending your budget or
over-cramming your closet.
So the next time you’re in a quandary as to what to add to your
wardrobe, opt for classics. They’re clean, versatile,
easy-to-wear, and make the most of your budget. Dressing well
just doesn’t get any easier than this!