10 Rules for a Fabulous Wardrobe on a Budget

Follow these 10 rules to create the wardrobe of your dreams on a shoestring. With a little bit of creative thinking combined with the excitement of the hunt – you’ll be stepping out in style without hurting your budget.

1) Find out where all the upscale second hand shops are in your town. Check Google Maps to make finding them easy and fast.

2) Look for consignment stores. These shops have the best name brands. Often they are very selective in the designer clothing they accept.

3) Check out vintage shops. This is where you will find clothes from days gone by – that have come back in style. Also look for vintage jewelry and other accessories.

4) Take some time to look around eBay. Many people sell beautiful clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry that they no longer need. Often they just need the money and are willing to accept low offers. You may snag a designer item for a really low price.

5) Keep your eye on your local Craigslist for super bargains in clothing and other accessories. Once again these can often be quite a deal.

6) Let your family, friends and neighbors know you are looking for quality clothing that they don’t want anymore. If offered something accept it graciously – even if it’s not what you want. Let them know it would be great for a friend of yours or you can alway donate it – but you’ve avoided alienating them. Their next offer might be perfect for you. The danger in this suggestion is that the person may ask for the item back and you won’t have it. So do this at your own risk!

7) Local garage sales are always fun and if you look for sales in upscale neighborhoods you may come away with a fantastic steal! I once found a beautiful designer coat at a garage sale for $2.00! Many people have stopped me in public to comment on it. You may have to go to a few sales before you hit the jackpot – so don’t give up too soon.

8) Watch your local paper for estate sales. These are often entire wardrobes up for sale. Plan to arrive early to get the best selection.

9) Find out when the churches and schools in your area hold their annual fundraising sales. Many of the families donate beautiful items with inexpensive prices. And you will be helping a good cause while getting a bargain yourself.

10) Thrift stores often have a mix of clothes and accessories. These are not usually high quality because the thrift stores themselves take the best items and sell them on eBay or Craigslist instead of in the local store. But you might get lucky – who knows?

You don’t have to break your budget to look fabulous and fashionable. Take the plunge into alternative shopping and find those rare gems that will round out your wardrobe in style and elegance at an affordable price.