Saturday 8 November 2014

Fashion Post | Dressing On A Low Budget



Let's be honest for a moment, for those who have a painfully low budget for any kind of luxuries, dressing in what is 'fashionable' at the time is incredibly hard. There are so many shops out on the high street that make young, impressionable girls (and boys!) feel they have to have what's splashed across the glossy window fronts. Whether your parents can't/won't give you an allowance or your simply not able to get any work, this all contributes to not feeling 'in'.

Obviously, people shouldn't feel the need to follow the crowd and it's altogether much more admirable that some defect from the norm and create their own unique sense of style. But what if you want to have the 'basics', as it were? Some fashion pieces that will last a while and remain fashionable? 

You see? This is very difficult to do. Sure, there are places which cheaper clothes such as Primark, F21 or even H&M, but guaranteeing the quality and longevity of these clothes is difficult to do.


So this brings us back to the question: How do you dress on a low budget? 



As humans we find this a hard challenge, especially with the ever-rising consumerist society we live in. Once we have something, we desire something else and the cycle continues. Why? Because we like new things. Simple as that.


So here are some ideas for you all on where to shop. If you would like a what to shop, let me know in the comments below!


Asos

Asos is a treasure trove of all things amazing. Honestly speaking, if I'm looking for something I've had in mind for a while, chances are, I'll find it there. There's anything from super cheap and reduced to luxury brands. Their sale section is huge so if you don't mind trawling through masses of clothes (personally, it's a hobby I quite enjoy), then this is a great place to start. There return policy is quick, easy and very fuss free - something I definitely like in a company.


Want Her Dress

When I attended Bloggers Festival in September, I met the lovely ladies from Want Her Dress. You might remember me saying that they aim to help women wear what suits their body-type, something many of us (myself included) sometimes struggle with. They have a range of prices on their website, and as always it takes a little looking to find a real bargain, but there's plenty to look at on their website - even if it's just some inspiration.


Charity Shops

There seems to be a bit of a stigma when it comes to shopping in Charity shops. Many people think of old peoples clothing or items which just aren't fashionable. Sometimes, yes, that really is the case. But other times you'll find something that is in great condition and you love. Why? Because these shops only accept a certain quality of clothing, so by no means are they in bad shape. If you look on the websites, you'll find many brand names being sold for much reduced prices, such as Topshop, River Island and even more pricy brands like Karen Millen. If you're nifty with a sewing machine, Charity shops could be an amazing asset to you, as you could redesign and update anything you desire.


Vintage Shops

For the past couple of years, vintage shops have boomed. While charity shops are still struggling to appear 'cool', vintage shops haven't stubbled with this lately. If you live in the city, vintage shops are likely to be everywhere - especially in London. Make sure you buy good quality items and stick to a budget and you're good to go. Vintage shops often differ in their approaches to sales, some will charge you per item, others per bag you fill and some will charge you per kilo. Know what you're shopping into and have fun! You might pick up some vintage Levi's if you're lucky.


T.K.Maxx

The first shop that comes to mind when I think of 'reduced prices' is always T.K.Maxx. For those of you who don't know, they hold last seasons clothing lines at reduced prices. Sometimes these prices can be so massively reduced you do a little double take, especially when these brands include Bench, Diesel and many more. If you shop in-store, it can get a little mad so you need to be mentally prepared for battle… you have been warned.


Outlets

Outlets are another way (very similar to T.K.Maxx) of getting high-end brands for big discounts. The discounts can range anywhere from 30%-80% off so they're worth looking around. Have a look to find the nearest one to you and have a browse, you might find some gems!


The Sales

It sounds like an obvious tip, but you can find a lot of treasures in the sale section of most stores. Typically, there will always be a reduced section of clothing for you to browse through, because the store want to get rid of anything not 'in season' anymore. But just because it's not in season, doesn't mean it's not fashionable. You could easily pick up some staple black trousers or everyday simple shoes in the sale section, you just have to look. One piece of advice I will give you is to:

1. Not buy everything in the sale. You're on a budget remember?

2. Check the quality of the clothes. Any stains, rips, marks? The clothes might be reduced for a reason other than not in season, so watch out. 


Primark/H&M/F21

I say these shops sparingly. You don't often find someone saying 'oh this old thing, had it for years! I got it from Primark.' The longevity of cheaper stores like this aren't always good. Sometimes you'll find some great pieces in there, but normally they are the slightly pricier ones. Don't fall into the trap of only buying the items because they are cheap. I speak from experience when I say they become shapeless very, very fast. Look at the fabrics and determine whether they will stand several washes and wears, if you're not 100% sure, chances are, they won't. Stick to the better quality products and they will last a lot longer.


Raid the wardrobes of your family

You'll be surprised how many things you might actually like but they just don't want anymore. Heck, you might even be shocked to find out that your mum/dad/sister/crazy aunt might have something you love. Obviously, ask the person, but chances are you can revamp your wardrobe very easily if you're willing to look around a bit or be a little creative.


And that wraps up my list of where you can find some great pieces when shopping on a low budget. It's a difficult thing to do sometimes, but it's very do-able.  
Tell me, what do you do when you're dressing on a low budget? 
Leave your tips in the comments below - you might just help someone who is really struggling!
:)

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