Budgeting for Fashion and Style in a Tough Economy

"How am I spending so much on these groceries?!" or "What in the world is going on with gas prices?" are a few questions most of of us have asked ourselves lately. We don't all make celebrity money and it wouldn't be wise to spend like we do. We can't all live like the one percent and that's okay. For the rest of us, we need to shop smart, but that doesn't mean sacrificing style.

Shopping for fashion on a tight budget can be fun and exciting. You know the thrill of finding those deals! Surely, there are plenty of ways to look good, without breaking the bank. Keep reading for some sweet strategies to help you stay chic and save money.

Shop Strategically

Why not use a dedicated reloadable Visa gift card or a specific credit card only for clothing and accessories purchases? Load it with your monthly fashion budget, and when the funds run out, stop shopping. Period. This prevents overspending and keeps you on track. Is there something outside of your price range? Wait a month! Stack those savings month after month. Our grandparents knew about and practiced this style of spending. Avoid falling into the "buy now - pay later" trap which is guaranteed to come at a higher cost in interest. Do it the smart way and save.

Have you ever considered the "Cost Per Wear" philosophy? Think about the value of each item you'd like to buy. Calculate the "cost per wear" by dividing the price by the number of times you’ll wear it. Prioritize the higher priced pieces that you know you are going to use frequently, rather than the cheaper items you know are more likely to get trapped in the closet.

Shop for Your Unique Figure

Understand what flatters your body shape. When shopping online, focus on styles that suit you best. Resources like body type guides can be helpful and are a great way to stay laser focused on making the best picks when it comes to clothing and accessories.

How many times have we bought something, only to never wear it because it's not flattering?! We are all guilty of this at one point or another. During tough economic times, it's important to pay very close attention when making purchasing decisions. It sounds like common sense right? We all need a little reminder every now and then. Consider this your reminder. Don't buy it, unless it is uniquely suited to you!

Sales Associates are Your Friends

When you find yourself in a brick and mortar store, chat with the sales associates. They are generally eager to share information about discounts, upcoming sales, and loyalty programs. Many of these choices are better than what you will find online! For those times it’s impossible to get to a physical store, consider using chat or personal shopper services for assistance and discounts. Most online sales happen at odd or strange hours, due to the global nature, so stay alert for secret sales that happen during the midnight hours.

Don’t forget, budget shopping is about value. Find a way to invest in classic styles and fashion. Spend your money on something you know you will be wearing or using. Avoid spending on the latest fad, or trend. Save trendy splurges for accessories and sale items. Happy shopping!