The seasons are changing, finally! Sunnier days and crisp winds usher in Spring here in Mississippi. Time to swap out the heavy, dark looks of winter and bring in a fresh new perspective. Cleaning out closets means evaluating what is current and what just won't work this season. But how can this be done on a dime? Following every trend of the Spring season would break the piggy bank for many people. Fortunately, there are ways to tackle fashion on a budget.
First, figure out what still works this season. Many trends that have been around for a few years are cycling back to the forefront. Think tribal, with ikat and Native American inspired prints with dashes of fringe, feather, and beads with the accessories. This look was also popular last year and actually,I had some of this trend in my closet back in 2006... This shows how much fashion comes back into style. Also, some looks are truly timeless. This means that staples in the wardrobe should never be discarded, but just reinterpreted. Think simple black and white t-shirts, tailored pants, loose blouses, sheer blouses, camisoles and tanks, pencil and a-line skirts. Adding current accessories to closet favorites and trusted pieces adds value that saves dollars.
Trust your instincts when shopping for Spring looks. Go out armed with information about looks that really pull together a style statement. Think about how adding older pieces to just a few key trend pieces will allow just a pop of inspired newness and modern panache. There are typically pieces that will work and pull together an outfit regardless of seasonal trend reports. The key is to recognize these pieces and purchase them on sale. Some of these include nude pumps, skirts and bottoms in a black and white scheme (striped, printed, dotted, abstract...), small skinny belts, ankle strapped shoes, a favorite high velocity color in bottoms, tops, and a shoe (think neons or highly pigmented primaries), a black blazer (fitted or cropped), statement necklaces (chunky, beaded, colorful), form fitting jeans in basic finishes and one fun denim, and a great sandal. These pieces do not have to cost a fortune. I would highly recommend shopping online and using local consignment, thrift, and Ebaying. There is always someone else recycling their items and this is a chance to find the good stuff.
Develop an eye for what works for you. Play in the mirror as much as possible. Experiment with colors, prints, textures, cuts of dresses and pants. Know your strengths and weaknesses physically and what creates the perfect optical illusion for the best looks. Confidence is one of the best fashion accessories and wearing it well builds knockout esteem along with memorable clothing choices that last year after year. This also limits the chance for buyer's remorse.
If there are looks that just need to go, consider recycling and making extra cash by selling lightly used looks to consignment boutiques. One person's old, boring look is another's favorite fashion find. There are some closets that we would love to trade places with! Also, consider shopping consignment because this is a way to find looks for much less than new retail and stretch those hard earned dollars. A total look can be bought for less than the price of one new blouse in some instances. And if the price works, there is no harm in experimenting with the latest trends.
Spring is in session and taking the time to plan out fashion strategies saves extra money in the long run. Look for sales in the next few weeks to move items and encourage inspire model worthy moments in us all. Know the budget, set limits, and shop wisely. But don't forget that fashion is meant to be fun, too!
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