Budget Fashionista

Question: We’ve had a tough year and my beauty budget is almost zero. How can I still look stylish without spending a lot of money? —Cheap Chic

Dear Chic,

Have no fear—the budget fashionista is here! With a few simple steps in the right direction, you can have beauty without breaking the bank.

1. Organize first, shop later. Before I venture out into the malls with a client, rule number one is: clean the closet first! Sort out the good, the bad and the ugly. Not only will this reacquaint you with what you already own but also set you up for some possible extra income. What was “bad” for you could be good for someone else. Consignment stores are always looking for up-to-date, gently worn clothing and accessories to resell, and that means money in your pocket.

2. Get creative. Here’s where the “ugly” becomes useful. Before you trash that white blouse with the yellowed armpits, harvest the unique buttons off of it. I have found beautiful buttons, appliqué and lace on garage sale garments and transplanted them onto my tired wardrobe staples. New details can do wonders for an old jacket. Got a turtleneck with shrunken sleeves? A dress that you never wear? Why not cut off the sleeves or hem and don it under a blazer or sweater. You don’t have to be a tailor to make this transition, leave your outer layer on and no one will be the wiser.

3. Know thyself and dress accordingly. Go back to the “good”—what worked for you. Was it the color? Style? Fabric? Or perhaps just the fact that it fit a role in your lifestyle. If you are a stay-at-home mom and have a closet full of business suits and ball gowns, it's time to reprioritize and spend your money where you spend your time. Give yourself permission to buy better quality and get a good fit in your “at-home” clothes. Duplicate winning colors and styles from those tried and true pieces that worked in your past, and upgrade where you can.

4. Accessorize and shop wisely. Invest in scarves, jewelry and add-ons (vests, belts, etc.) that will change your look with a little color and decor. Shop consignment stores and department store sale racks for clothes (better quality). Use thrift stores, import shops and teen areas for accessories. And finally—learn to be content with less. Owning a few pieces that look fabulous on you is better than having much that looks mediocre!