pictured: peplum bustier // envelope clutch // floral blazer (similar here) // necklace
Shopping for quality pieces doesn't mean you need to break the bank. Often times, it's all about knowing where to look-- and what little details to look for-- that make all the difference. We're all for finding fabulous pieces at a great price! Just because something was cheap, doesn't mean you look cheap. Below, we've compiled our favorite tips for fashion on a budget!
Tip #1: No Labels.
You don't need designer items to look cool. If something is trendy, buy it for cheap (it's not worth the investment, trust us). If you're a label lover, save your splurge for something timeless that you will use for years to come. There are plenty of stylish finds at a great price, and there's no need to overspend on a single item.
When shopping in budget-friendly stores, go with the "no label" rule of thumb. Look for items without visible branding or labels on the outside. Same goes for jeans... the less labels on pockets or by the belt loops, the better. There are plenty of inexpensive jeans out there with no labels on them, that look a whole lot like their designer counterparts. When it comes to a tee or tank, you can never go wrong with plain & simple.
A Big Don't: knockoff handbags. Instead of faux, look for a beautiful no-name bag within your budget. Go for real leather, clean lines, and you guessed it... as little branding on it as possible. For vegan leather, it should look & feel like the real deal. Nothing beats quality, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a quality knockoff. A pretty mystery brand piece is much more stylish, and you'll have people asking "where did you get that?!" You're creating your own trend! We love the envelope clutch pictured above.
A Big Do: faux diamond stud earrings. Go for a sparkly & modestly-sized pair; it's hard for the untrained eye to tell the difference.
Tip #2: The Details.
Ever notice a striped tee, and the stripes don't match up at the seam on the side? It's those little details that make something either look "cheap" or luxurious. Not all budget finds pay attention to these details, while many higher-end items do.
If you're buying something with a pattern on it, make sure that everything is in check. Stripes & plaids should match up at the seams. Floral patterns shouldn't have big gaps in the pattern in obvious areas (i.e. stomach or chest). Also with floral patterns, make sure that the flowers are placed in flattering areas. For example, two big flowers placed symmetrically on either side of your chest looks like, well... awkward!
The solution to this? Look at what you're buying. Inspect the side seams, notice the patterns. Let's say you found a cute striped shirt, and you know that you want a size medium. Look through all of the mediums on the clothing rack, and find one that looks like it's made the best! We find many great patterned items at fast-fashion stores like Forever 21... and all it takes is a little careful inspection.
Speaking of seams, make sure they lay flat. Seams and hemlines should not be bumpy, uneven, or poorly stitched. Fabrics should feel substantial; not easily torn or snagged. If the fabric looks like it will 'ball up' in the wash, chances are you're right. Clothing should have longevity, and not be disposable.
Helpful hint: patterned items are best to be bought in person, and not online, so you can check for these details.
Tip #3: Where To Go.
Fear no store. You can shop in any-- and we mean any-- store, and usually find something great. You just need to know where to look, and how to stay true to your personal style. That cheesy-feeling accessory store in the mall for example; it just might have a fabulous piece of costume jewelry!
We love everything from the sale rack at department stores, to haunts like T.J. Maxx and Marshall's. Places like Forever 21 can't be beat for trendy items on the cheap. There are also several stores that offer great coupons, such as Kohl's and Express. Keep an eye out for pieces you need, and steer clear of anything that doesn't feel like "you". Just because it's a good price, doesn't mean you need it.
A Big Don't: don't buy something just because it's on sale. Buy something because you love it. Even if it's on sale, you love it, but it doesn't fit... don't buy it. You won't wear it, and you won't feel your best in it if you do. You may find a name-brand pair of heels for 50% off. But, they hurt and pinch your toes. You'll feel (and look) much better by wearing those trusty ankle booties that you already have in your closet instead.
A Big Do: wait for the sale. Drooling over a full-priced item? Find out when it's going on sale, and check back later.
Tip #4: Make It Yours.
Often times it's not just about the pieces we buy; it's how we style them once we're wearing them that makes the difference. Take a blouse from "cute" to "amazing" by adding some layered necklaces & tucking it in to great-fitting jeans. Find little touches of your personal style to add into your outfits.
Go with your style. Are you more into a preppy, J. Crew look? Take that same blouse & jeans-- add a colorful statement necklace, a vintage baseball cap, chic leather flats, and a monogrammed tote bag. Keep your personal style in mind when on the hunt at budget friendly shops. No matter the price of an item, you'll always look like a million bucks when you make it your own!
Another style tip that will always make you feel fabulous: confidence. And by the way, it's free! So go forth-- rock that t-shirt and jeans with your head held high and a smile on your face. Dress for yourself, your lifestyle, and what you feel best in!
Where are your favorite places to shop for budget friendly fashion? Share with us below!
