If you’re ready to build a fashionable wardrobe with discounted finds, eliminate items that don’t fit your go-to style. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and save money.
Using wardrobe tracking tools can also help you shop intentionally. This will stop the cycle of over-consumption and help you curate a mix-and-match closet.
Be Creative with Your Clothes
Getting creative with your clothes is the key to building a fashionable wardrobe on a budget. For example, you may find a classic black jumpsuit that can take you from work to date night for much less than a new white one that will get worn less often.
Another way to be creative is to look for pieces that can be layered or restyled in multiple ways. For instance, if you’re in the market for a plain tee shirt, consider picking a printed version that will make it more versatile and dressy for occasions like a job interview or cocktail party.
When shopping for discounted finds at websites like RetailMeNot, it’s important to remember that quality is better than quantity. Avoid impulse purchases by setting a clothing spending limit for yourself or using an app to help you stay on track with your goals. With this app, you can create a style profile that will guide your wardrobe choices to be more cohesive and intentional.
If you’re ready to reclaim your closet time, start by sorting through your clothes and removing any that no longer fit or don’t serve their purpose. You can sell items to recoup some of the cost or donate them to a local charity. If you’re on a tight budget, you can also check out thrift stores and eBay for good deals on office attire that someone else has outgrown or no longer needs.
Look for Hidden Gems
Finding hidden gems that work for your style is the best part of building a wardrobe. That’s why scouring the clearance section at secondhand stores is important. Many of these items last been worn a while ago, which means you can score something in good condition for less. You can also use this strategy when shopping for shoes, bags, and coats. These are some of the most expensive pieces to purchase new, but they can be found at thrift stores for a fraction of their retail price.
Before you start searching, take a look at your closet. Identify your most-worn styles and consider whether you need to upgrade them with higher-quality versions. For example, a grey cardigan you’ve worn a million times might be worth upgrading to a wool or cashmere version. Likewise, a skirt you’ve worn for years might be worth hemming so you can wear it again next season.
Once you’ve figured out what to add to your wardrobe, focus on finding classic cuts that are versatile enough for year-round wear. This helps you avoid frivolous spending and reduces the amount of clothing in landfills. It also allows you to be more adventurous with your outfits when ready.
Shop Off-Season
The key to a stylish wardrobe is versatile pieces that mix and match. That’s why building a capsule wardrobe is such a good idea—it helps you avoid frivolous shopping and creates a closet full of outfit-worthy clothes that work together.
However, if you want to use discounted finds to revamp your wardrobe, make sure you’re buying quality pieces. It’s much better to have one nice sweater that can be worn multiple times than four cheap pieces that will pill and wear down too quickly.
Another important thing to remember when shopping for discount finds is timing your purchases right. Many retailers offer seasonal sales, so you’ll often find better deals during these periods. For instance, spring and summer merchandise goes on sale in June and July, while fall and winter items are typically available for clearance in January. You can also save money on your clothing by using coupons or discounts.
A wardrobe tracker, can help you stay on top of your shopping habits. It will show you your most-worn pieces, so you can be more discerning when purchasing new clothing. You can even use the wishlist feature to store items you’d love to upgrade to a higher-quality version. For example, upgrading that grey Target cardigan you’ve worn a million times to a wool or cashmere sweater.
Keep an Eye Out for Freebies
Aim to buy items that last rather than things that go out of style quickly. This will help you avoid impulse purchases that lead to a closet full of clothes you don’t wear. One great purchase that fits with the rest of your wardrobe is more valuable than many things that don’t work together. If you’re prone to impulse shopping, try using wardrobe tracking tools to keep yourself in check.
As you shop, keep an eye out for freebies. If you sign up for a loyalty program at your favorite stores, you can often get exclusive offers and discounts. Many stores also give away free samples or coupons to bring new customers into the store. This is a good way to test out a new brand or type of clothing and see if it’s something you’d consider an investment piece.
Also, don’t be afraid to splurge on “investment pieces” if they’re in your budget. You can usually find classic items that will last a long time cheaper than trendier ones. For example, instead of buying a white tank top that will likely fade within a few washes, go for a black version that can be dressed up or down with jeans and a jacket.
