Look Sharp and Feel Confident On A Budget!

I love fashion.

My wallet, er, not so much.

I'm a big believer, though, in not needing to have a huge income in order to look sharp and feel confident.

It just takes determination and a little ingenuity.

And I am nothing if not determined. 

(A nice way of saying stubborn.)

So, what have I learned?

1. Don't buy something just because it's cheap.

That may sound odd, since we're talking about affordable fashion. 

If you don't really like an item, though, then any money you spend on it is going to be a waste.

Forget about the price, and ask yourself:

Does it look good on me?

Does it make me feel good?

Will it match anything else in my wardrobe?

If the answer to all these questions is "No",

don't waste your money. 

2. Know your style.

Before you can start your search for affordable fashion, 

you need to know what you're style is and what flatters your body type.

If you can figure that out first,
you'll save a lot of time,
energy and money.

Start with your closet:

What items do you love to wear?
What items look great on you?
What items make you feel good?

If you can figure out what it is about those pieces,
that will give you a more specific search area.
You won't buy something you'll end up wanting to return.

3. Research and patience.
There are some really great consignment and second hand clothing stores, if you're willing to search for them. Ask around, Google it, and you're bound to find some gems.

Does saving money mean not buying anything new?
No way!
Time your shopping excursion for when there will be a big sale on.
If you're looking to buy a seasonal item (i.e. a summer dress),
try to shop when stores are doing their Season Ending Sale.

This article, "The Best Times to Buy Clothing" on TIME.com suggests the best days of the week and times of the year to buy various items of clothing.

Don't feel like waiting?
No problem!
Most stores will have a clearance section, usually near the back of the store.

4. Clothing swap.
This is another version of second hand shopping,
but with a few big differences:

It's in the comfort of your own home (or a friend's).

You can have appies and wine.
(Score!)

Everything is FREE!


5. Stick to the plan!
Before hitting up a really big SALE at your favorite store,
or even a clothing swap with friends,
have a plan.
Figure out what items you are really needing.
(i.e. boot cut jeans, dark wash, medium rise)

Stay focused!
It's not easy, but it's worth it.
You'll end up with what you needed,
what looks good on you,
and you'll pay an affordable price because you did the research in advance.