“I need a new wardrobe” is the mantra of men and women everywhere when they start a new job, plan a vacation, or want to change their look.
Clothing prices have fluctuated wildly over the last year, showing promising decreases in some months. Yet, we’re still paying around 10% more for these items compared to last year.
So, buying a whole new wardrobe takes meticulous planning if really want to get a good deal.
Here’s how to shop wisely when you’re upgrading your look.
- Start With a Plan
Going clothes shopping with only a vague idea of what you need is a recipe for disaster. You’ll end up with mismatched, overpriced items and never end up wearing them.
Whether you’re shopping for work clothes or vacation gear, it’s important to know what you want before you head to the stores.
- Start a New Wardrobe From Old Favorites
Go through your closets to determine whether you can come up with any new wardrobe ideas from items you already have. That helps slim down your shopping list considerably.
You might also come across some great pieces that could work with your new wardrobe too.
For instance, you may have a lovely pair of black pants that you’ve never worn. While you’re at the stores, you can shop around for tops to complement these pants.
That way, you won’t have to shop for an entirely new outfit.
- Sell the Excess
While trawling through your clothes, set aside those items that no longer fit you, and those you’ve grown tired of.
You can sell these for cash at a second-hand store. That way, you’ll have a little extra money to put toward your clothing budget.
- Look for Deals Online
If you can find someone that delivers internationally, you can take advantage of a favorable exchange rate coupled with great discounts.
This works especially well if you’re shopping for seasonal items like sundresses, T-shirts, and shorts at the onset of winter.
You’ll find these deals at brick-and-mortar stores too, and there’s no shame in shopping at discount stores that sell slightly imperfect pieces from big brand outlets.
- Shop at Consignment Stores
You can pick up some real gems at second-hand stores nowadays.
Thanks to the rise of vintage apparel, there are many consignment stores that only accept clothing that’s in excellent condition.
There are even stores that specialize in second-hand designer items nowadays. You can pick up gorgeous statement pieces from these outlets at a fraction of the price of new ones.
While you’re handing in your old clothing, look through the racks of the second-hand store for good-quality items you could use.
Make Saving Money a Way of Life
Planning to save when you buy a new wardrobe isn’t just about the money.
There’s a growing train of thought worldwide that supports a frugal way of life. Extravagant spending and wasteful habits aren’t as cool as they once were.
So, when you adopt a penny-wide attitude, you’re in line with global trends towards conserving resources – including money.
Keep browsing our blog for more tips on how to spend wisely in every area of your life.
