The Question:
Dear Belinda,
In order to save up for a Euro trip with my friends next year, I’ve decided to cut back on my spending — clothes and accessories included. This is going to be tough, but it’s something I have to do. However, I still want to be able to keep up with trends and look great without spending more money than necessary (a year is long time!). Any advice or tips you can give me, I’d really appreciate!
Thanks,
Hilarie
Belinda Says…
Dear Hilarie,
Kudos to you for your determination and commitment to frugality. No fashionista ever wants to have to sacrifice her shopping habits, but as you’ve explained, you’ve got something great to look forward to (Hello, Europe!). To help you stick to your new budget-conscious lifestyle, I’d like to share the following tips:
Sell What You Don’t Wear. The first thing you can do is get rid of the clothes you don’t need. If they no longer fit or you haven’t worn them in over two seasons, get rid of them. Clothes that are in good condition can be sold in a yard sale or on websites like eBay. Then, the money you make from your sales can go back into new wardrobe pieces!
Stick with the Basics. If you are going to buy new clothes, stick with items that are likely to be timeless. Look for simple lines and solid colors, and avoid anything too trendy like crazy prints and designs. You’ll get more mileage from the timeless pieces and avoid having to update a trend-dominated wardrobe with the next batch of trendy pieces that will eventually go out of style.
Accessorize. Rather than spend your money on variety of clothes which will add up and minimize your budget, get trendy with inexpensive accessories. Scarves, hats, belts, jewelry and handbags lend style and trend to a basic wardrobe, and can be bought inexpensively at places like Forever 21, H&M, Charlotte Russe, Target and other affordable fashion boutiques.
Go Second-Hand. One of the great things about fashion is that it often revisits the past and the fashions of previous decades. This year there’s been lots of 70′s influence, as well as Mad Men-inspired looks, so rather than heading to the department store and buying a vintage-inspired piece full price, you can head to the local thrift shop and search for the real deal — and for less!
Host an Exchange. One great way to get new pieces for your wardrobe without spending a dime is by hosting a clothing and accessories exchange with your friends. Everyone brings the items they no longer wear to swap and trade with the other guests. It makes for a great girls night in, and can also be done with items like nail polish, bath products and jewelry. For more ideas on hosting an exchange party, check out this post.
I hope these tips are useful to you and help you stick to your strict budget for the next year. Good luck saving up for that Euro trip…keep your eyes on the prize! 
Happy Stylin’,
Belinda
Have a question for Belinda? Send an email to belinda [at] smarter.com with all of your fashion inquiries. I may not be able to answer everyone’s questions, but I will try to get to as many as possible. Be sure to stay tuned for next week’s Ask Belinda Column, the next one may be yours!
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