outfit details: Forever 21 shirt – similar at Shopitques, Aldo Felt Hat – only available in navy online, Target Skirt – similar available at Dillards / another similar skirt available at Dillards for only $21, Ever New Handbag,- only $30 in stores, Ever New Flats, Charming Charlie Striped Watch
Growing up, I always valued living on a bit of a budget. Sure, I love shopping – but I love seeing my bank account grow too. I like the idea of having a security net, and having some funds for the big purchases in life – like an apartment, a new car, or a fantastic trip abroad. But just because I live on a budget doesn’t mean I want my style to reflect that.
While I love looking through magazines at the latest fashion trends (and sure – I’ve always coveted a Chanel purse) I also know there are ways to obtain that high level of style without making your pocket book pay the ultimate price. I’ve always believed that you can look like your style is expensive without spending a lot, and today I am excited to share my tips on how to achieve on point fashion without breaking your bank!
Today’s outfit is a perfect example of how to look polished on a budget. All the pieces I styled having something a little special about them – and that includes their prices. The adorable Ever New white flower adorned flats were only $30, the Target Skirt was under $15.00, the top was $23.90, the two tone Ever New bag was $30, the Charming Charlie watch was $15.00, and lastly the Aldo hat was $25.00! None of these items cost a fortune, and yet when they are styled all together they appear sophisticated and stylish.
How to Have GREAT Style on a Budget
BUYING SMART:
Save & Shop Sales: The best way to get more bang for your buck is by saving up and shopping sales rather than just picking up a piece here or there at full price. Go to a sale with an idea of what you’d like an seek it out.
Go for Structure:
Including a structured item into your outfit does help create a more thought-out look. Think of when you throw a blazer over a t-shirt, it instantly boosts your outfit right? Structured pieces don’t always have to cost a fortune either; I mean this skirt was under $15 when I snagged it from Target! Plus, pieces that have a bit more structure to them often last a bit longer because they have heavier stitching to them. Sometimes the best pieces to save your budget are the ones that will last.
Be Critical Over Fabrics:
Choose fabrics carefully. Sometimes you find a beautiful piece at a total steal price and then they fall apart after the first wear + wash – in my opinion, it’s not worth it if it’s not durable. Choose fabrics that are resistant to wrinkling, have heavy stitching, and are machine washable. In my opinion, if an item has loose threads when you buy it than the chances are that it’ll come apart in the first few washes. Purchasing pieces that won’t last just means you’ll be needing to purchase new pieces more often – and that’s not budget smart at all!
STYLING SMART:
Accessorize: Now when it comes to looking like you have expensive style, one thing I can say is to choose your accessories with care. Don’t over accessorize as it can make your look appear cluttered. Try adding on an elegant looking watch, unique floppy hat, a dainty necklace, or stylish bangle – but try to stick to just adding a few of these to really streamline your look. On days when I feel like I am in a bit of a style rut, I often turn to a simple t-shirt and jeans. It’s a simple outfit, but as soon as I layer on a long necklace (like this one from ASOS that’s only $14.50) and a throw on a hat I feel like my look has gone from basic to stylish in a flash. Basically what I am saying is is that even the most basic and budget-friendly look can look great with a few simple + inexpensive tweaks.
Take Care:
Nothing will keep your clothes looking their best like taking great care of them. Use washer / dryer bags for your delicate pieces, hang dry pieces that could shrink, and be careful to not throw in that red sock with all your favourite white pieces.
love that hat, dear 🙂 great look
Saci
ChocolateFashionCoffee
ChocolateFashionCoffee Facebook Page
awww…. so so lovely outfit, my sweety))))) xoxo
I am a total believer that you can be stylish on a budget! You look great.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
so pretty 😉
i invite to me too
http://www.live-style20.blogspot.com
Great tips! Your outfit definitely looks very chic for the price.
EverRose.com
That is a great tip on adding a structured piece! I never thought of it that way, but sure enough when I saw the pic of your outfit, my first thought was, "Oh I love that skirt." Thanks for sharing, Bree!
Alyssa
http://www.alyssawithana.com
Bree, I agree with you… you look so cute and put together, yet it didn't cost a lot of money. Quality is so important… I have pieces from a few years ago. ♡oxo
You are so beautiful and you picture looks so charming
http://www.jacketsalemalls.com