How to Look Stylish on a Budget
By Erika J Owens
Everyone wants to look like a million bucks for a lot less than a million dollars. For the average person, the pressure to buy designer items can sometimes be overwhelming. More always appears to be more but there is a way to get more for less and to look just as good as a label lover. Here are some guidelines for achieving designer inspired looks for a lot less.
1) Think of your favorite clothing designer and their signature look. In the world of fashion, there is almost always going to be some cheaper version of that signature look. Taking inspiration from known designers is a great way to pinpoint exactly what you want to shop for.
2) Take advantage of sales. Many times, you may not want to splurge on items from the latest collection of a designer simply because that is when it will cost the most. You may wonder, "well, by the time it's on sale won't it be out of style?" The answer is yes and no. The key here is to shop for items that are more classic in style and not trendy. Trendy items come and go like the wind, while classic styles stick around. Sometimes though, if you opt to purchase a trendy item on sale, it may spill over into the next season. The important thing to remember is to pick a trend that is not too over the top.
3) Find some key designer trends you like and head to affordable department stores and mainstream clothing stores to duplicate those looks for less. Looking great doesn't mean you have to have a famous name sewn on the tag of your clothing. Often times, going this route is more cost affective and will allow you to buy stylish looks more often.
4) Head to the outlet. Many people love shopping outlets because you get designer items for less but this can be a little tricky. Yes, there are designer items at outlet shopping malls but they are not the same quality as the same garments found in regular retail stores. In short, outlet clothes are usually created especially for the outlets and are also made with lower quality materials. Often times, designers have high hopes that consumers will not taking a second look at what can be seen as second-rate clothing. However, if the difference is miniscule or, you are purchasing a trendy item that will only last for one season, it might be worth the investment.
All in all, a big budget is not a requirement needed in order to look great. In a day in age where keeping up with the mainstream seems like a daily requirement, you can be rest assured that the quality of your appearance need not be dependent on the label or designer you are wearing. If you take these simple steps and adopt a cautious shopping regimen you will turn heads with the quite confidence of these little shopping secrets all while keeping quality a top priority.
Erika is a San Diego based personal wardrobe stylist and personal shopper at "Style with Erika". Services include personal shopping, closet overhauls, fashion coaching and more. Online personal shopping also available nationally. Find more information about services at Style With Erika located in San Diego at: http://stylewitherika.com/. Also, find her up-to-date fashion blog and subscribe and/or sign up to get her fashion tips and trend report.
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