Our clothing is a way of outwardly and visually expressing ourselves without physically changing our bodies. Many people want their clothing to be representative of them as a person, to show their interests and personality. Having clothing that matches what you like and who you are as an individual is important and is more often than not anyone’s first impression of you. Unfortunately, many of us cannot afford to spend hundreds on the clothes we want so we have to find ways to make do with our constraints, here are a few ways you can achieve the wardrobe of your dreams on a tight budget.
shop your wardrobe
What items do you wear all the time? Try separating them from the ones you hardly wear and see if you can mix and match what you already have, make new outfit combinations to expand your wardrobe with less items. This is what is often referred to as a capsule wardrobe, they are a great idea for more outfits on a budget or if you have less storage space. Get creative with what you already have and then see if you need to get more.
Identify why you like these items
If you are in need of new clothing, try asking yourself Why you like these articles of clothing over the others in your cupboard, think about the fit and coverage, is it the colour you like or the material that feels nice when you wear it? Really dive deep into why you like these pieces and try finding styles that embody these specific characteristics.
Make a Pinterest board to help visualise the wardrobe you want
If you are in need of new clothing, try asking yourself Why you like these articles of clothing over the others in your cupboard, think about the fit and coverage, is it the colour you like or the material that feels nice when you wear it? Really dive deep into why you like these pieces and try finding styles that embody these specific characteristics.
Sell and buy
Once you’ve sorted your clothes out and found what you want your wardrobe to be its time to get rid of the things you no longer want, the best way to do this is to sell them. This way you are making more space for new items and expanding your budget. Use selling apps that are targeted towards selling and buying clothing like Vinted and Depop, you can find a range of clothing that you wouldn’t find on the Highstreet and often for a better price. If selling isn’t an option for you find a local clothes swap, this is a great place to instantly get rid of old items and get new ones for free no money involved, it’s also great for the environment.
If you’re unable to find what you like online or at clothes swaps try local charity shops, you might not only find what you are looking for in the size you need but also your money is going towards a good cause. If you want something more up to date and new, try to keep a look out for brand deals and sales happening, it’s a great way to get brand new items for a good price.
Take time
Build your wardrobe slowly, don’t try to do it in one day like a youtuber doing a haul, spend time really mulling over a piece before you get it, maybe search for a cheaper alternative or wait for the sales to role in. Taking your time will be less stressful and, in the end, you will have a more carefully curated wardrobe that truly fits your preferences and style wants. Rushing this could take you back to square one where you end up not wearing things as they are outside of your comfort zone, and you bought them on impulse because it looked cute. Remember when you buy, buy with intentionality and with the goal of keeping it for a long time, this is what is best for your own expenses and the environment.
Hello, I'm Megan Dowthwaite, a graphic designer and content creator. I'm fascinated by the world and its various cultures main ones being Korea, the Philippines and other Asian countries, I specifically focus on fashion, art, history and the ecosystem. I love to learn and share my new found knowledge with others.
