Five ways to look stylish without spending money
Not every great look requires a shopping trip…
There’s no denying the buzz that comes with buying a new pair of boots, a gorgeous bag, the perfect LBD… Retail therapy is a real thing, after all. But what happens when we’re trying to curb spending and stick to a budget?
Durban-based image consultant Daniyel Berry offers this advice:
Shop your own wardrobe
Chances are, you have so many items you can re-invent. Play with your clothes. Get creative. Take your favourite piece and try to style it differently. How many looks can you come up with? If you’re stuck, do this exercise with a pair of jeans (dress them up, dress them down). You’ll be surprised at how many options you can come up with!
Refurbish items
Change a button, hem a pant or add a broach. Don’t be ‘helpless’ when it comes to minor alterations. Keep a needle and thread in your top drawer. Grab your white T-shirt and sew a few pearls or silver beads around the neckline. You’ll totally transform that item and can always unpick it later to restore the T-shirt to its original look – that way you’ll feel like you have something new again.
Pop onto Pinterest for style inspiration. If you have a pair of jeans in your wardrobe, type in ‘outfits with jeans’. Do the same with black pants – or anything really. See what ideas resonate with you and pull out similar items in your wardrobe. It’s a great way to break out of your style rut.
Accessories
Go through your accessories and pull out any items you haven’t worn in a while. Experiment with your necklaces or earrings and pair them differently. That square scarf you were given as a gift… tie it onto your handbag or fold it in a triangle and knot it loosely around your neck to create a cowl. This will automatically transform your white T-shirt and jeans into a (classically) stylish outfit.
(Pretend to) shop online
If all else fails and you’re still itching to shop, hop online and add to your cart, BUT don’t check out. Pretending to buy might be enough to satisfy your urge, this time.
* For more information, visit styleme.co.za
