Monday, January 26, 2015

Build a Wardrobe on a Budget

Hello beautiful people! Fashion can be overwhelming, especially for those of us on a tight budget! If you're paying off debt, saving for a large purchase, or going to college (like me), this post will guide you to having the perfect wardrobe. While trends may be fun, every girl should invest in some basics, that will carry you through all the short lived trends and be adaptable to any event or occasion.

Again, I am a college student which means... I'm poor haha. With that being said, my passion for fashion has to fit in a limited spending range. The best advice is to find the essentials as cheaply as possible and find the very best sales. You don't have to spend a lot to look FABULOUS!

WARDROBE ESSENTIALS:

SHOES:

  • 1 Pair of Sandals to go with everything
  • 1 Pair of Classic Boots ( riding boots)
  • 1 Pair of Black Flats 
  • 1 Pair of Loafers
  • 1 Pair of Black or Nude Heels
DRESSES/SKIRTS:
  • Little Black Dress
  • Pretty Day Dress
  • Long Sleeve Knit-Dress
  • Black Pencil Skirt
  • Maxi Skirt (optional)
JEANS/PANTS:
  • Dressy Jeans (Dark Wash)
  • Casual Jeans 
  • Black Trousers
  • Dress Pants (Gray or Khaki)
  • Jean Shorts
  • Colored or Patterned Shorts (optional)
SHIRTS/TOPS:
  • Basic Tees or Tanks (Black, White, Gray)
  • White Button-Down Shirt
  • V-Neck Sweater (You pick the Color)
  • 2-3 Cardigans (Black, Tan, Crazy Color)
  • Tunic or Statement Top
OUTERWEAR:
  • Jean Jacket
  • Black or Neutral Trench or Peacoat
  • Blazer (your choice)
  • Rain coat (lightweight coat)
ACCESSORIES:
  • Scarf
  • Stylish Handbag (one that you can wear with anything)
  • Sunglasses
  • Tan and Black Belt
  • Floppy Hat (optional)
  • Leggings or Tights ( layer summer pieces for fall)
BLING
  • Diamond studs
  • Pearl studs
  • Gold or Silver Bangles
  • Watch
  • Statement Necklace
  • Basic Silver or Gold Necklace and Studs
BE THOUGHTFUL WHEN/WHERE YOU SNAG ESSENTIALS:

If you're shopping on a budget, you will have to think outside the box to get the best deals on pieces that are essential for your wardrobe. Whenever you can, look for daily deal sites, clearance racks or even thrift shops.

For me, when I want a high-end pair of shoes or piece of jewelry, I ask for it as a gift or request gift cards to save up for it. You can't always get essentials in your budget. So for things like a good pair of pearl earrings or a nice handbag that can last you years, it is best to save up for or request it as a gift. This way you don't get the cheaper version that will tarnish or break in a month.

TAKE MENTAL NOTES BEFORE YOU SHOP:

It is so easy to get caught up in the latest trends, but be mindful and keep it simple if you're on a budget. TIP: Whenever you buy an item or even think about buying an item ask yourself " How many outfits will this make?" or "What will this item complete?"

TRENDS COME AND GO, BUT BASICS STAY FOREVER

Trends are so costly! Just because Faux Fur Vests are trendy now, does not mean that they will be in the future, There is no need to rush to Forever 21 or other  discount shops to stock up on the latest trend. While you are getting your one trend another trend is being made.

The great thing about staples is that once you have them all, it is easy to adapt them to the trends with just small additions for $20 or less. Having a classy black dress can be dolled up or down in so many affordable and fashionable ways.

Focus on your budget and on your basics. Trends may be fun for a season, but usually end up being regretted later. Timeless pieces aren't going anywhere. As hard as it may be, don't buy what you don't need. ( it's a struggle I have)

DON'T BE DISCOURAGED IF YOU CAN'T FIND ALL THE ESSENTIALS AT ONCE!

It is best to wait to find the best fitting items than to buy something just because a store says you have to. Patience is key when finding the best timeless pieces, Your pocketbook will thank you in the long run!

xo,
Maria Elizabeth


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