New Wardrobe

Illustrated By Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Now that the weather is getting much more seasonal, it's time to break out all of the lightweight layers. Soon the new summer collections will be what's hot and in season, but a lot of expenses will also be on the horizon. Of course, I'd rather spend money on new clothes and summer fun, but unfortunately, rent and bills must take priority. However, this doesn’t mean that anyone should miss out on new clothes altogether. If you’re smart, you know there are several ways to update your wardrobe and still save money. Here are a few of my favorite suggestions...

Upcycle your current wardrobe

While you were spring cleaning, you must have spent some time purging your closet. Hold fire before you donate them; have you considered upcycling your current clothes? If you’re getting rid of clothes because they’re too big or small, you can take them in with a needle, or you can lengthen them by adding some lace to the seams. You could also get creative and add some patterns, or repurpose them altogether. You don’t need to be handy with a needle to achieve good results; sometimes fabric glue will do the job. I once took an old oversized tee shirt and turned it into a mini skirt by sewing a stretchy waistband and zipper to it. It was an amateur piece but it helped me salvage something that wasn't utilizing.

Search for discounts

If the warm weather fashions are in, then that means the spring line needs to go. Browse your local high street for the sales, or look online for discounts. Even designer shops have to clean out their old stock, which means you pay up to half price for something that would have cost a fortune a month ago. Use some old navy online coupons to get that dress you’ve been eyeing all spring!

Buy second hand

What some call ‘old,’ others call ‘retro.’ You won’t find a better selection of classy, vintage, or comfortable clothing anywhere else. If you want something of a higher quality, go to shops in upscale neighborhoods and get something stunning for a fraction of its high street cost. You might have to visit several stores before you find your perfect treasure, but it’s all worth it when you have bags full of new clothes at the end of the day, with just half of your designated budget spent. I also use Poshmark to list the items I no longer care to wear and sell it. One of my favorite ways to create a whole new closet!

Clothes swap

Do your friends also have a keen sense of fashion? Are they looking to purge their wardrobes too? Obviously, the solution is to get everyone together and organize a clothes swap. Perhaps you could score that shirt or dress of theirs that you’ve always admired. Maybe you have something that no longer fits you that would suit them perfectly. The more friends you invite, the more options you’ll have, and you still won’t have to spend any money. It’s also a fun way to spend time with your girlfriends!

Choose versatile clothing

When you’re out buying new clothes, look for items that can be used for more than one season. As the temperatures and weather are somewhat similar, some clothes from the spring line can be worn again in autumn if you plan ahead. Get clothes that look good layered so you can get more use out of them when the weather gets a little colder. Think timelessness when you shop and also think about what you already have in your closet that can pair with that item. One of my favorite transitional piece are vests because of how easy they can be worn every season.

This year try to incorporate some of these tips to give new life to your wardrobe. If you don't wear it, swap it out for something new without having to spend too much. Bills are inevitable but those shoes you've been eyeing won't always be at that discounted price! Dear readers how do you keep your wardrobe interesting?