Rule #1: The Dress Doesn't Make the GirlYou're probably saying, "yeah, duh," but let's be honest. We've all seen the lovely fashion bloggers who continually are wearing the most incredible clothes. We drool over every single shoe, clutch and accessory. I often find myself thinking that if I could have that incredible wardrobe I would seem more desirable to a greater audience. FALSE!
Some of my favorite (might I add very successful) bloggers never post photos of their fashions or of their belongings. I know that my personal style and the wardrobe currently in my closet are not my dream clothes but they are a great reflection of who I am. At one time I bought those clothes because I liked them and feeling confident in my own wardrobe is very important. It's like desiring to be blonde when you're a brunette; everybody does it, but it all comes down to the choices you're making that are a true reflection of who you are. I guess the point of this rule is to make it clear that you can have the most ingenious collection of clothing and an incredibly ugly soul. It's really more important to focus on being pure of heart and kind and positive, than to be a supreme stylista. This in itself should encourage you that you've got a good thing going on already.. now, how to build on that solid foundation
Rule #2: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Yep. Just like cardboard, paper and glass we should be recycling our clothing. This can be a huge money saving technique when done properly.
Reducing the items of clothing you own will actually benefit your wardrobe. By removing the items that are overly worn, don't fit or are poor quality will remove the desire to wear them. This will leave room for the amazing items you do have, force you to wear them and show you what items you lack that you do in fact need.
Reusing your clothing can be as easy as 1, 2, 3. Cut it, sew it, dye it! Enhance old clothes by doing some custom DIY work, whether it means cutting the neck off that ratty old sweatshirt you love so much, or dying that white slip green to wear as a dress, the possibilities are endless!
Recycling clothes is becoming easier and easier. There are a growing number of consignment stores that will take your used clothing and sell it for you, giving a large percentage of the profits back. It's a great way to keep the size of your closet modest while being able to afford new pieces to spice up your wardrobe.
Rule #3: Trend or Timesake?
This rule is the most important on the list. Let's get honest now... many of us fall into the trend trap. We bought those jelly shoes, the chain belt or that teeny tiny clutch that won't even fit your phone - it's inevitable to have fashion faux pas but learning from our mistakes will benefit us in the future. Here's how you do it: Keep up with the trends by purchasing garments that agree with the current fashion colors and shapes. Keep from becoming a walking billboard by ensuring that you wear no more than 1 trendy item at a time. Mix your trendy items with your classic cut, well tailored fashion... you can't go wrong! Now, a little visual to explain what you should be spending on Trendy vs. Timesake pieces:
Rule #4: Think To The Future
Like everyone, our tastes mature. When shopping, always ask yourself if you will like it in the future. I often channel my style icons Brigitte Bardot and Rachel Zoe while shopping. Doing so, helps me realize that no, this really doesn't go in the direction I'd like to dress....it keeps things in perspective. Take the time to search for classic pieces that will last for years - a lovely cashmere sweater, some great fitting pumps and a pencil skirt are all staples that are fun and flirty but can grow with you as time passes. Thinking ahead can save you so much money now and in the future.
Rule #5: Fake or Faux??
Just like the dress doesn't make the girl, the label doesn't make the dress. Sure we all lust over the new Marc Jacobs collection and it's so much better when it's real, right? WRONG! You don't need to fork over the big bucks to look like you're wearing designer labels...it's all about smart shopping. Please don't get me wrong; as an aspiring designer myself, I feel incredibly magical when holding a $3ooo dress and would probably sell my car for some McQueen platform heels, but when it comes down to reality, I can't afford to wear all Rodarte and not max out a million credit cards. If labels are that important to you, save up for one or two items of the latest and greatest fashions. Don't buy unless you can afford it that day. If labels really don't matter and you just want to be in style, look for items that resemble designer fashions. It doesn't mean you're cheap, it means you're smart.
Rule #6: Paper or Plastic?
I cannot say this enough: PAY.IN.CASH! It's so easy to rack up debt by charging all your purchases on a credit card. Paying in cash gives you a physical idea of what you are spending, and when it's gone, it's gone! It's the most practical way to save money. If you have a problem keeping all your weekly or monthly cash in a large bunch inside your wallet, separate your money into envelopes. Each envelope should be labeled appropriately, ie. Gas, Entertainment, Food, Emergencies, etc. Breaking up your spending money will keep your shopping habits in perspective and allow you to eat all month long, and not just until your money runs out (been there)!
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Best of luck to you all, in your Fall Fashion Shopping highs and lows. I know it can be tough but being smart with your money will benefit you in the future. Keep that dream car or house in mind when you're window shopping, and tuck away as much as you can. Indulge when you deserve it, and most of all, do not ever let your clothing define you. I hope this has been helpful for you all!xxoo chelsea
