How to Revamp Your Wardrobe on a Budget

The other day I was looking through my closet and I swear, I didn't have anything to wear. Well, that's not true. I have plenty of clothes. But every now and then, none of my typical outfit combinations really seem to get the job done. Maybe I have an event to go to that requires something extra special. Or I could just be running errands. That feeling can hit at any time.

In the past, I'd run right to the store and buy a new outfit. Well, that's an expensive habit so I've developed other, less expensive ways to deal with the problem. What's the secret? I've learned that even the smallest change can make a huge difference.

Build a Basic Wardrobe

The first thing you need to do is build a basic wardrobe filled with classic items. This includes a few pairs of jeans, slacks, a blazer, a nice skirt, a go-to cardigan, a casual dress, the little black dress, workout clothes, and blouses in a few different colors. Once you have the basics, you can begin to expand your wardrobe little by little and purchase key pieces that reflect your personality and style. But the basics need to be in place first.

This doesn't need to cost a lot of money. Visit discount stores. Wait for sales. Don't shop at high end stores. There are plenty of ways to keep the cost down. However, if you are basically starting from scratch, it still will be an investment even if you do find some great deals. It's worth it in the long run, though.

Don't Dress for the Trends

You can look chic and stylish at all times. Following the trends has nothing to do with how good you look - it's all in how you coordinate your outfits. There's nothing really wrong with trendy dressing but if you're on a budget, this is an impractical approach to style.

You'll end up spending more money if you're too concerned with them. Trends have a short shelf life so you'll always feel the need to go shopping. They're also more expensive. As the season progresses, clothes go down in price. To keep up with the trends, you'll need to shop right when the clothes are at their most expensive. To save money, just don't build a wardrobe that relies on them.

So, you have "nothing" to wear?

What do you do when this feeling hits? Deal with it? Stay bored with your clothes? No, there's a better way - especially if you have a solid basic wardrobe already build up. When this feeling hits, think about two things - how much money do you have left in your clothing budget and whether or not you could simply come up with new outfits from what you already have.

If you have enough money in your budget, by all means - go shopping. It could be that you really need something. Just don't pay full price. Buy it on sale or shop at a place that has good fashion for low prices. Also consider buying a new accessory. Sometimes a simple outfit can look completely different with a scarf or colorful belt.

To find new outfits, start in the fashion magazines. Cut out any looks that you love. Do you have the clothes in your wardrobe that will give you those looks or something close to it? Be creative. You don't need to follow these looks exactly but even if you get close you'll still look stylish.

Dressing smart doesn't need to take a lot of money. Build a basic wardrobe and expand it. Fashion is all about creating your own unique look. Fortunately you don't need to spend a lot of money. You can revamp your wardrobe on a budget.