How to Build a Killer Wardrobe on a Budget

I have spent a lot of blog posts showing you where to find discount or low price fashionable clothing for all occasions.  However, planning an awesome wardrobe that helps you look great and save money takes some careful planning on what to buy, and where you buy it.  For some things, it makes sense to buy something low-quality and low price, and for others, you should look for higher quality so that you can wear it longer.

Don't Spend a Lot of Money: 
 Low quality clothes are not a great buy for the clothes that you wear every day because they wear out fast, they get pilly, and they begin to fall apart.  However, there are some things that a girl has to buy that it just does not make sense to spend a lot of money on.

1. First on my list of things is a dress you're only going to wear, once. If you're talking prom, wedding, or that magical sorority formal you'll talk about forever, then it makes sense to splurge for a special occasion. However, how many times do you really think you're going to wear that spring semiformal dress? How many times are you going to want to look at the pictures, if any were even taken? For occasions like this, if you don't have an old dress that you want to wear, you should buy something low-quality and low price so that you can look great once, and then never think of it, again.
Example:

This cute rosette dress from Forever 21 will make you stand out in a good way at semiformal, and it only costs $22.80. Just don't plan on wearing it more than a few times.

2. The other major thing you don't want to spend a lot of money on is trendy clothes.  Before you buy something trendy, ask yourself if you would be embarrassed to wear that item if public three years from now. If the answer is 'yes' then don't spend a lot of money on it.  Do you need some examples of these flash in the pan trends? Does anybody remember the shrunken tie tops that hit high schools around 2004? How about the bubble skirts that hit around 2008? Some trends just hit one high school, others sweep the nation, but in general, they don't last. Are you a trend setter, not a follower? If you're thinking about trying something new and crazy, this is also a good way of trying out a look without making a huge commitment. It's easier to try out something like zebra print jeans if you're spending $10 than if you're spending $100.

Example:

If your school hasn't gotten tired of the shrunken vest trend, it will by the end of the year. If you want to partake, don't spend a lot. Get this one at 599fashion.com for $5.99.  But remember, never wear a trend that doesn't fit your body type - paying money to look bad is never a good idea.

When You Should Splurge:
In the long run, there are some items that it just makes sense to invest in, so that you can wear them for years to come. These pieces should be versatile, and have a classic look - don't invest in a high quality top that will hold up over the years if it's going to go out of style next season.
1. The Little Black Dress is a classic that you'll find yourself wearing again, and again.  Women wear LBDs to the office, to class, on dates, and to go out with the girls.  Choose one that is versatile enough to wear on several different occasions, is made from good materials (no polyester, please) and shop around to make sure that you get a good deal.
Example:

This LBD by Armani Exchange will last for years without losing its shape, or color.  It's sexy but conservative enough to wear to work, and it's on sale for $79.99.

2. Our bras are the little-celebrated superstar of our outfits.  They not only affect how good "the girls" are looking every day, but they also affect how comfortable and confident we are. Don't make the mistake of thinking that just because nobody can see your bra through your shirt (hopefully) it isn't important. Also, don't just buy expensive - buy smart.  La Perla might be sexy and cost more than a black market kidney, but it doesn't offer support for to day to day. Get a bra that give you support, and looks sexy.
Example:

Victoria's Secret bras might tend toward the pricey, like this Body by Victoria demi-cup for $46.50, but treat one right, and it will give you comfort and fit for years.  Remember, the better you treat your breasts now, the better they will look in 20 years.  

Try these tips, and stay within budget, and you will be looking great in the short-term and the long-term, and nobody will know how much you saved. 

As always fashionistas,

Happy Shopping :)