Girls, I’ve been there, and I’m sure you have too. That depressing moment when you open your closet and can’t find anything you actually want to wear. Not that little black dress… too plain. What about that skirt? Doesn’t fit. And those trousers don’t suit you. What’s worse, you’re too broke to afford anything new. So here are my tips on revamping your wardrobe without making your credit card cry.
Photo Credit: Sebastiano Pereirapool-the-hidden-charm-of-flea-markets
Check out thrift stores, flea markets andonline vintage stores. Who wants to look like everyone else? Vintage looks and one-off finds are so in, and you can be sure that no-one else will be wearing the same piece.
Photo Credit: fierce pixie
Sometimes one small new detail is all you need. A fabulously simple way to jazz up a plain outfit is to make a pretty crochet flower and pin it on a dress or coat. Afterall,floral designsare so in right now! Can’t crochet? Ask your mom or granny to teach you, and use an online tutorial, like this one: teaandcrafting.blogspot.com. You could also check out our very own Meream's blog at Boredandcrafty.com. She's wonderful, trust me!
Photo Credit: Christopher Pattberg
Organize a clothes swap with friends. Of course, it helps if you are all of a similar size! Clothes should be in good condition - no tatty t-shirts! Items you’re bored with or have never even worn may be just what one of your friends is looking for, and they just might have something they don't wear that you'll love!
Photo Credit: bitsandbobbins
Check out what’s in style in the shops andfashion magazines, then pick up some braid, fringing or feather trim. Bored with something but don’t want to throw it out? Shorten a dress, put inserts into a plain skirt, take the sleeves off a top … the possibilities are limitless!
Photo Credit: *midtownsky*
Take everything out of your closet- and I mean EVERYTHING. You’re bound to find items you’d forgotten you even had! Bundle it all on the bed or carpet. Now try different combinations – you may be amazed to discover how good things look together, especially if you have a full-length mirror and can try things on.
Photo Credit: Sicco2007
There’s a difference between wanting and needing. New trends may be someone else's must-haves but always ask yourself if you really need something. Most purchases are not that urgent! Now, do I really have to tell you NOT to buy something just because it’s a bargain? Do that, and I guarantee that a few years later it’ll be in your swap pile …
Photo Credit: JennKstep
Often, it’s not new clothes you need, it’s a new way of wearing them. You needn’t spend a fortune on a colorful necklace,fabulous belt, or bold bag. My favorite bag is a leopard-print handbag picked up for $5 at a market.
Photo Credit: JennKstep
Online auctions are a great way to pick bargains. Browse while you relax at home, with time to think before you buy. Just don’t get carried away! Set yourself a budget and stick to it. Also look for bundles – you can always resell anything that you don’t like or that doesn’t fit.
So which of these ideas do you like? Have you ever used any of these to spice up your wardrobe without spending too much? Any suggestions of your own? Please share!