Having a Nice Wardrobe on a Budget

I love fashion. I used to try on my mother's high heels and make a mess attempting to put her make-up on. A department store buyer, she always had a great sense of style. Ironically, she never spent too much money on clothes; neither did my stylish older cousin. That taught me a valuable lesson - You can have a nice wardrobe on a small budget.

Why do people equate looking good with spending plenty of money? That's completely untrue. When it comes to clothes, there is one important thing to know: A person makes the outfit, not the other way around. In other words, one person can spend a fortune on an outfit and look horrible while another person can wear clothes from Walmart and look both great and wealthy.

What is the key to looking your best without spending a lot? Here are some tips that I've learned.


1. Forget designer names. Instead, look for good, lasting quality clothes that flatter you. Go to T J Maxx or Kmart and look around. Shop for colors and styles that flatter you. Always try on something before you purchase it. What looks good on a hanger might not look right on you. On the other hand, the opposite may be true.


2. Tqke stock of what you hqve in your closet and decide what you want to keep, what needs discarding and what you need to update. For example, a new skirt or pair of pants that matches different tops will give them a fresh look.

3. Want the look of a jacket without spending big bucks? Try buying blouses and wearing them over short sleeves. Stores like TJ Maxx, Kmart or some department stores will always carry blouses that are inexpensive.

4. Go for the classics. Don't try to keep up with every trend that comes along. A certain style may not be right for you. Instead, wear updated classic fashion items as opposed to the latest fad. If you want to update a look, try adding a scarf, interesting belt, or a piece of jewelry.

5. Choose monochromatic colors schemes. Monochromatic colors always look classy and elegant. Plus, solid colors tend to subtract pounds from your frame, making you look slimmer. An added bonus is that you're less likely to get tired of solid colored clothing as opposed to prints.


6. Buy items off season. If you wait to purchase clothing at the end of a season, you can get some incredible bargains at your local department stores and even high end boutiques. Again, choose classic styles that will never go out of style.

7. Wear dark colors. Black is always in style, is appropriate for any season or occasion and adds a classy look. Having a black dress, skirt or suit each season is a must.

8. Invest in one expensive purse
There's no need to have a closet full of purses. Invest in one quality designer purse in black or beige and carry it everywhere you go. If you choose a purse made of the highest quality material by a good designer, it can last for many seasons and will never go out of style. Likewise, have one or two outfits for formal or special occasions.


8. You can save a whole lot of money on your jewelry. Costume jewelry is affordable and the selection is great. Or, you can various types of beads, shells, etc. and make your own jewelry. Aside from saving money, you can have hours of fun.

9. Think outside the box when it comes to accessories. Make a necklace by clipping an earring onto a chain or cord.. Have broken clasps on a necklace? Take two paper clips and attach them to each side, then slide one clip into the other. If you can sew, try adding fringe around the bottom of a skirt or bows on sleeves.

10. When it comes to shoes, stick with low heeled leather pumps. Choose black for fall and winter and white or off-white for spring and summer. These basic colors will go with everything, and leather is appropriate for all seasons. Have one pair of dressy shoes for special occasions.