Fashion on a Budget

Not many people have the budget to buy a whole new wardrobe this year. And with warm weather quickly approaching, many of us want to rush out to the mall to pick up the newest trends. There are several things you should keep in mind before blowing four months worth of pay checks on trends that may go out of season by next month.

1. Establish a realistic budget: Set aside a certain amount of cash before you go to the mall and don't allow yourself to go over. Be realistic and make sure you get the essentials before you pick up the latest trends.

2. Splurge on timeless pieces: It's always tempting to spend a fortune on the newest fad, but these should be the pieces you spend the least on. Trends come and go, but classics (i.e. black dress, dress pants, denim, and neutral accessories and shoes) are here to stay. Plan to spend at least 1/2 your budget on these items.

3. Always look for a cheaper version of a hot trend and don't buy the designer version unless you have to have it. Although you may have to wait a few weeks for the trend to trickle down to department stores and stores like Forever21, it's definitely worth the wait. At the time, it may seem like a good idea to buy the designer version, but always think ahead and ask yourself if you think you'll wear it in six months.

4. Don't shop with a shopaholic: When you shop with a friend who can easily drop $500 in one store, it's never a good idea. This can increase the pressure to spend more and be more impulsive. The best people to take: your mom or just yourself. Your mom will be brutally honest with you and keep you in line budget-wise.

5. Shop online: Now is the perfect time to shop online for sales and deals. Many stores have begun offering free or discounted shipping and online deals you can't find in stores. Websites like www.bluefly.com and www.ruelala.com that can help you find amazing deals on designer goods.

6. If you're not sure, come back: If you're insanely indecisive like me, you may need to take a break before you make a big (or small) purchase. If I can't decide if I want to buy something, I'll either move on to the next store and come back later, or return later in the week. I can usually rationalize whether or not it's a good purchase after I've had some time to think. Go home and make sure you don't have anything too similar and that you can wear the item with your wardrobe.

7. Look for transitional pieces: before you commit to something, make sure you'll be able to wear it for longer than a few weeks. Pieces that can be worn in the summer and then worn with a cardigan in the fall are more valuable. You don't have to be able to wear the piece all year round, but think about upcoming seasons and weather when you consider your purchases.