Fashion on a Low Budget

A limited budget is not an excuse to look frumpy and outdated. There are several ways that you can be fashionable when money is tight.

-Try thrift stores and flee markets. You'll be surprised at what treasures you find! Just make sure to check carefully for holes and stains when buying secondhand clothing.

-Don't buy things on a whim. Always try things on and think about whether you really need the item. Ask yourself where you would wear it before making a purchase. Leave the store and continue shopping - if you still want the item later when you are ready to leave, you can go back and get it.

-Compare prices. The Internet is a great tool when it comes to fashion. If you have an item in mind, look at some of your favorite stores' websites to see where you could find the best deal. Checking websites periodically also alerts you of upcoming sales events.

-Have a clothes-swapping party with your girlfriends. Invite all your girlfriends over and ask them each to bring several articles of clothing that they no longer want. This does not mean old ratty t-shirts. They should be items that are still in good condition and fashionable. Maybe your friend lost a few pounds and those designer jeans she bought a few months ago no longer fit. Or maybe she made a impulse decision at the store and bought something that really wasn't her style, but might be yours! Come up with a fun game to decide who gets first pick so as not to cause a tug-of-war. Make it a fun night - pick up some wine and snacks and pamper each other with facials and manicures.

-Splurge a little on high quality classic pieces which will become the staples of your wardrobe. These pieces will not go out of style in a year and will last a long time. Don't spend too much on crazy pieces that you more than likely will only wear once, unless its for a very special occasion.

-Take your old clothes that you no longer wear to a consignment shop or have a yard sale. Let yourself spend any money you earn towards a new wardrobe without feeling guilty.

-Ebay, ebay, ebay. Not only can you sell your old clothes on ebay for quick, easy money, but you can also find some great deals. Designer labels at huge discounts and new or like new clothing for much less than you'd pay retail.

-Accessories are a great way to expand your wardrobe. Different accessories can completely transform an outfit and can make simple ensembles fun and stylish.

-Look through fashion/style magazines for hot trends. Cut out pictures of the styles that you like best and take them with you when you go shopping. Oftentimes you can put together a very similar look for a fraction of the price.

-If you're feeling really creative, try making your own clothes. Make patterns using clothes you already own as templates. This of course would require some sewing skills, but the results can be beautiful and unique.