Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Dear Shopping Savage...


Dear Shopping Savage,

I was compelled to write to you after I read one of your posts. You told a reader that if she has a limited budget that she should focus on well-tailored clothing and nice dresses instead of trendy pieces. However, I'm in the same boat as she is, except I like being a little flashier than your typical shift dress, a string of pearls and heels.

Is there a way to stand out and be trendy while you're on a budget?

Signed,

Trendy Thriftster

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Dear T.T.,

To be trendy and on a budget, you must first learn the importance of editing; not every seasonal trend is your friend. Before stepping foot into any store, take the time to pick apart current fads by using fashion magazines. Create a list of the season's looks and must-have items that you believe will work for you. You'll want to start your fashion perusing up to three months prior to the actual season you want to dress for as most fashion magazines, like fashion collections, are always a season ahead to entice and titillate those who 'have' and those who 'have to save'.

Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, most clothing and accessories - trendy or otherwise - can be found as a "look for less" at your local designer discount stores, secondhand shops, online or through DIY crafting.

The idea here is to apply what you've absorbed from your ready-to-wear reading research and start looking for items on the designer discount end of things to duplicate what appeals most to your trendy sensibilities, while staying within your budget. You still want to use the tips provided in this post and interweave wardrobe staples with trendy clothing and accessories to round out the look. A white oxford and black pants, for example, could be made more contemporary through personal styling and of-the-moment accessories.

Just remember that what you wear should be a reflection of your personal style and not just what designer's dictate. Finding the right balance is key. As Tommy Hilfiger was once quoted as saying: "Trying too hard to follow every trend? You want to look fashionable and put-together, not like you hit every sale rack this season."

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

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