Rebecca Taylor Sweater (Sold out, Similar) | Rebecca Taylor Jeans (Sold out, Similar) | White Sneakers | Western Belt Similar | Ectu Carryall (Similar & Affordable)
As someone who relies on a combo of the latest trends and wardrobe staples daily, I am very much aware of how costly getting dressed can be. With that in mind, being smart with my clothing purchases on a monthly and seasonal basis has become of utmost importance to me. As we transitioned into a new season, I realized I needed to stock up on more cold weather items without overspending. There are certainly ways to save money without sacrificing fashionability. So, I wanted to share a few tips to help you create your ideal fall wardrobe on a budget!…
…
Needs vs. Wants
When it comes to shopping, it is always important to exercise the idea of needs versus wants. Separating the two before you pull out the credit card ensures you do not go over your budget. Personally, I prefer to start by identifying any basic or essential items I need to invest in. If you decide there are numerous ways you can rock a camel or plaid coat into your looks, work that into your fall wardrobe budget. Otherwise, consider everything else, a secondary want that doesn’t necessarily warrant a purchase right away.
…
…
Recycle What You Already Have
When transitioning your closet from summer to fall, take a moment to consider if that one summery dress can be styled for this time of year too. I absolutely love playing around with the clothing I already have. It forces me to think outside of the box and to get creative with my styling. Finding ways to transition that floral dress to become more fall appropriate is a great way to maximize your pieces and save money. For instance, layer a long sleeve underneath or pair it with a moto jacket and chuck on some over-the-knee boots, and you got yourself a brand new look.
…
…
Pro Tip: This is also a great time to shop end of summer sales for items you can work into fall but also save for next spring and summer! I’m so over calling an item “last season”.
Pro Tip: Creating a seasonally and monthly budget will help you keep your credit card balance in check. Take major sale periods like Black Friday into consideration since we all tend to spend a little more during the holidays.
Save Seasonal Trends for Fast Fashion
I know everyone has been promoting conscious fashion – and I do to, but I’d be lying if I told you I no longer shop fast fashion brands anymore. The key is to do so in moderation. When there’s a trend I really want to try, I focus less on quality and more on style. This not only helps save money, but allows me to dip my toes into the latest and greatest trends. Don’t be afraid to get thrifty either. Heading to your local thrift store is a great way to score some trendier pieces on a budget. Animal print is one of the biggest trends right now and every thrift or vintage store I stopped at recently had overloads of cheetah print.
…
…
Pro Tip: Limit these fast fashion purchases to less than three per month, so can allocate more to long-lasting, quality pieces. And when you do indulge, stick to styles and fabrics you know will actually last – and that you’ll wear many times before donating.
Shop Pre-Loved Items
I think there’s a certain stigma about buying used designer goods, but I actually think it’s a great way to score designer bags at a fraction of the original price. It’s by no means a sign of being cheap or calculative, especially if you can save up to 50% of MSRP – and an item is authenticated. Places like The Real Real, Vestaire Collective, and What Goes Around Comes Around are a few of my favorite places to look for pre-loved designer goods. This is a great place to start if you’re looking to add investment worthy bags to your wardrobe but aren’t ready to commit to dropping thousands of dollars.
…
…
Pro Tip: The price of a used bag correlates to its condition. If you find one at 40-50% off, it’s most likely not in “like new” condition. Also, only buy from a reputable source and do your research.
Looking good doesn’t always have to cost an arm and a leg. It might seem that way on platforms such as Instagram because it seems everyone is always wearing the latest designer releases. However, having an eye and knowing how to style yourself goes a lot further than just wearing a label. Before going shopping, definitely consider these tips so you can achieve an amazing fall wardrobe on a budget!
