“How can I be stylish without spending a fortune?”
Aside from “Can I have a snack, Mom?” this is one of the questions I’m asked most often. It’s easy to assume that, with an unlimited budget, everyone would look amazing. There is a point, though, where designer fashion becomes just plain weird. (Did you know for the low price of $1,500, you can own a purse that looks like an actual shrimp? Thanks, Edie Parker.) But I’m going to assume you are a real person, who needs real wardrobe advice that doesn’t include a handbag likened after your favorite appetizer. No matter your budget, it is possible to look and feel like a million bucks! Here’s how to build a stylish spring wardrobe on a budget.
Mind the Gap
The first thing you want to do is take stock of whatcha got. A good old fashioned closet cleanout will help you define your personal style more clearly. What do all your favorite pieces have in common? What’s similar among the pieces you haven’t worn in six months? Note what you like and why. Cleaning out and organizing what you have will also help you identify the gaps in your wardrobe. Do you have a ton of tops but few bottoms? Sneakers and flip flops but nothing more versatile? Make a list of the pieces you need to purchase in order to round out what you already have. Discipline yourself to shop for only what’s on the list. Prioritizing these “gap” items will gift you multiple new outfits.
Style isn’t a price tag
Bargain shopping is cool now, y’all. In fact, secondhand shopping is a $23 billion business according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. So, if you are open to resale shopping, you’re in good company.
For beginners, I recommend starting online. Search for all of your “gap” items on Poshmark, Ebay, or even Facebook Marketplace. You can find everything from nearly new designer pieces to everyday brands at a fraction of the original cost. For resale veterans, expand your search to different areas of town. You’ll find that each pocket of Orlando has its own inventory personality. I also advise you to try on everything you like. I know it can be a chore, but fits vary drastically from brand to brand, and you might leave “the find of a lifetime” on the rack simply because it fits differently than its listed size. (Vintage pieces will run smaller than clothes made in the past 25 years.) Because shopping resale successfully is a skill, you’ll get better with practice! Remember, too, just because it’s a good deal doesn’t mean you should take it home. Building a closet of things you love actually starts at the store. Ask yourself, “If it wasn’t on sale, would I still want it?”
Regardless of whether you’re shopping at Walmart or Neiman Marcus, a piece of clothing is only as stylish as what you pair it with! Research Pinterest for inspiration on how to mix and match items together in unique ways. What truly makes style “STYLE” is the interplay of all the pieces together. If you can adopt that perspective, you’ll equip yourself to find a gem anywhere you shop!
Final Touches
Where I see outfit potential fall short most often is in the lack of final touches. The right cuff on a pant leg, roll of a tailored shirt, or trick tuck of a casual tee can elevate your whole appearance. (Did you know there are multiple ways to tie a buttoned-down shirt, fabric belt and jacket sash?) Manipulating the actual garment in this way is a simple, no-cost option to up your chic factor. When it comes to accessories, ditch the flip flops for a pointed toe flat. Loafers, (clean) neutral sneakers, or braided mules are also go-to spring options that will read more sophisticated than your standard Florida ’flops. Adding a belt, classic earrings or layered necklaces will also serve to polish up even the most casual looks. Instead of reaching for the same slouchy purse, opt for a structured bag this season. (A structured bag is one that maintains its shape when you set it down, unlike a tote style.) A purse upgrade is an easy way to make an outfit look more put together and intentional. It’s these details that can transform resale finds into an outfit that gives you star quality style.
My final advice is to give yourself time. It’s when we are pressed for time that we find ourselves in a harried, dressing room frenzy, paying too much for something we only kind of like. If you map out your upcoming events to build your wardrobe ahead of time (and steer clear of shellfish purses), you can assemble an affordable, swoon-worthy, spring style of your own.
