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It’s always nice to treat yourself to a brand new wardrobe ready for the summer, but a new set of clothes doesn’t come cheap. In a tough financial climate, people have to be extra careful about what they spend on luxuries such as new clothes, but there are ways to save money on your summer wardrobe and still look fabulous.
One of the best ways to save money on clothes is to find voucher codes online. The big advantage of this is that you can still shop at your favourite shops and buy everything that you normally would, but you will get a nice percentage of the price discounted. Sometimes there will be different offers, such as buy one, get one half-price. You should also keep your eye on in-store offers; many fashion retailers will have a summer sale, so you should definitely take advantage of sales and offers as much as you can. For example, Diamond is offering a £50 New Look voucher offer for customers who buy direct, out of which you could purchase a number of staple items for your new wardrobe, or a few really classy items for those warm summer evenings.
If you’re creative and arty, you could customize some clothes you have hidden away in the back of the wardrobe rather than buying new ones. Put aside a few pounds and you can buy ribbons, lace, sequins, buttons, and small pieces of fabric. You may even be able to get some of these for free if you know where to go, or for next-to-nothing in charity shops.
While you’re browsing in those charity shops, it’s also definitely worth checking out the clothes they have in stock. There will no doubt be some horrors in there, but retro is really cool right now and you could pick up some fabulous vintage pieces. Not only will you get clothes for a good price, but between buying from charity shops and customizing your own clothes, you’ll have a unique look. There’ll be no danger of walking out the front door and seeing someone else with the same outfit, because yours will be the only one around that’s like it.
Most people don’t go supermarket shopping without a list, but will charge in headfirst when buying clothes and splurge without thinking about it. Have a look through your own clothes so you don’t buy shorts or flip-flops if you already have them, and then make a list of the things that you do actually need and want. Also think about what you’re going to get the most wear out of, and buy carefully. Buy pieces that are either multi-functional or that co-ordinate with as many other items of clothing you already have.
The final thing that you can do to save money on your summer wardrobe is not to buy many new clothes, and swap with friends instead. You could go shopping together, choose things you both like and then swap and share. Or check out clothes swapping events held at local cafés, bars and other venues – basically, you bring clothes you’re ready to part with, and for every item you add to the pile, you’re allowed to choose something from the items other people have contributed. It’s a fabulous way to recycle used clothes, gives you a chance to pick up a pile of new clothing for free, and often benefits charity.
One of the best ways to save money on clothes is to find voucher codes online. The big advantage of this is that you can still shop at your favourite shops and buy everything that you normally would, but you will get a nice percentage of the price discounted. Sometimes there will be different offers, such as buy one, get one half-price. You should also keep your eye on in-store offers; many fashion retailers will have a summer sale, so you should definitely take advantage of sales and offers as much as you can. For example, Diamond is offering a £50 New Look voucher offer for customers who buy direct, out of which you could purchase a number of staple items for your new wardrobe, or a few really classy items for those warm summer evenings.
If you’re creative and arty, you could customize some clothes you have hidden away in the back of the wardrobe rather than buying new ones. Put aside a few pounds and you can buy ribbons, lace, sequins, buttons, and small pieces of fabric. You may even be able to get some of these for free if you know where to go, or for next-to-nothing in charity shops.
While you’re browsing in those charity shops, it’s also definitely worth checking out the clothes they have in stock. There will no doubt be some horrors in there, but retro is really cool right now and you could pick up some fabulous vintage pieces. Not only will you get clothes for a good price, but between buying from charity shops and customizing your own clothes, you’ll have a unique look. There’ll be no danger of walking out the front door and seeing someone else with the same outfit, because yours will be the only one around that’s like it.
Most people don’t go supermarket shopping without a list, but will charge in headfirst when buying clothes and splurge without thinking about it. Have a look through your own clothes so you don’t buy shorts or flip-flops if you already have them, and then make a list of the things that you do actually need and want. Also think about what you’re going to get the most wear out of, and buy carefully. Buy pieces that are either multi-functional or that co-ordinate with as many other items of clothing you already have.
The final thing that you can do to save money on your summer wardrobe is not to buy many new clothes, and swap with friends instead. You could go shopping together, choose things you both like and then swap and share. Or check out clothes swapping events held at local cafés, bars and other venues – basically, you bring clothes you’re ready to part with, and for every item you add to the pile, you’re allowed to choose something from the items other people have contributed. It’s a fabulous way to recycle used clothes, gives you a chance to pick up a pile of new clothing for free, and often benefits charity.
What are your top tips for saving money while updating your wardrobe?
Image courtesy of vanillaechoes / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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| Image by leslie.keating via flickr |
Shopping on the High Street
There are certain times of the year that the high street shops tend to have some good sales on. Around Christmas time, spring, summer and also autumn, you tend to get lots of sales to try and entice shoppers to buy items which are on sale. These sales do vary, and a lot of the good bargains can be had at some of the larger stores on the high street or in the shopping mall. Independent retailers can also have some great bargains as well, but these kinds of shops are becoming scarcer due to competition from both the larger chain stores and also retailers on the internet. One good thing about physically going to a shop to buy your clothes is that you can see and touch the goods in person before buying them. You can even try them on to make sure they fit and that you like them before committing to a purchase. You can end up walking quite far though as you go round all of the shops looking for items that you want to buy. You can also find there is a lot of competition from other shoppers to snap up all of the bargains before they are gone. You can end up having a good day out shopping, especially if you take your friends or family with you, you can also make a full day of it and have some lunch as well. If you are pregnant and looking for maternity clothes though, you need to make sure that you do not over do things and take regular breaks and sit down as and when you need to.Shopping on the internet
Shopping on the internet is a lot more stress free and also a lot easier on your legs as well, no walking required! All you need to do is get your laptop or computer turned on, get yourself a brew and maybe a snack and surf the internet looking for things that take your fancy. There are some good reasons to buy online rather than from your high street shop or shops in the shopping mall:- More choice
- Cheaper
- Can buy from overseas
- More sales on
Generally with a shop which you physically visit, their range of stock is displayed on the shop floor and what you see is what you get. With an online retailer, they can afford to show a lot more stock on their website as they do not need to display it for the customer to see. You also tend to find that online retailers can sell the same items you get in a shop at a cheaper price. The reason that they can do this is that they have fewer overheads as they do not need to have a physical shop for people to visit. This means that they can sell the items cheaper which is always good for the consumer. Another great thing about buying online is that you can see the latest maternity fashions from countries around the world and purchase goods if they take your fancy. As competition on the internet is even fiercer than on the high street, many online retailers will have some sort of sale on almost year round, which means there are lots of bargains to be had. So if, you are looking for some good quality maternity wear, you should take a look online and save yourself some money, as well as sore feet from walking around all of the shops!
Deane Schwarz wrote this article for Bump, Baby and beyond. At Bump, Baby and Beyond you can find a wide range of excellent cheap maternity clothing. Deane is an avid online shopper and mother of one who loves to share her experiences and ideas in the articles and blogs that she writes.
- Mossimo Women's Cap-sleeve Colorblock Dress w/ Elastic waist at Target.
- Candie's Neon Butterfly Sunglasses at Kohl's.
- Merona Marguerite Closed Wedge Canvas Espadrille at Target
- Starfish Button Earrings at Target
It is time to put the heavier winter clothes away and add spring colors and designs to your wardrobe. Women’s spring clothing trends for 2013 include a mixture of soft, feminine styles and bold and fun colors. The usual pastels are trending, but brighter colors and interesting patterns or materials will set you off from the crowd. All of the fashionable items can be found to match any budget. Of the biggest trends, you can easily incorporate these six into your frugal-yet-fashionable wardrobe.
Scarves
Scarves are still trending this year and there seem to be more patterns and colors than ever. This is good news for everyone and especially for the budget-conscious. Scarves are an easy and inexpensive way to add color and flair to any outfit. Some scarf styles and materials easily transition from casual to formal wear. You can get your own quality custom tailored scarves in silk, satin, cotton and blends to match your clothing style.
Straps and Heels
When you look for heels and sandals this spring, look for those with interesting straps. Hot looks include straps that cross the foot in non-standard ways, such as diagonally. Metallic finishes, patterns, and neon colors are also trending for women’s shoes. Pair them with skirts, jeans or pants.
Black and White
Black and white is very big right now. Fortunately, you can easily find many kinds of clothing with this color scheme without breaking your budget. Choose from solids, strips, checks, hound’s-tooth or even black and white polka dots. Mix and match to your heart’s desire to create your individual style. Black and white can be incorporated into casual looks for fun or formal looks for the office. A cropped jacket over a white t-shirt is a great, easy casual look. Pair a hound’s-tooth cropped jacket with a silk blouse and black skirt and you have a dressier look.
Neon Bags
Neon and pastel accessories are hot this spring. Switch your winter handbag for those in bright colors for a fun and trendy look.
Sunglasses
Choose bold, round shades to protect your eyes and look fabulous this spring. Designer shades can cost hundreds of dollars, but there is no need to spend so much. You can get similar sunglasses at many discount and outlet stores – no one will know how little you really paid but you.
Light Leather
Light leather jackets in pastel and bold colors are trending this spring. Choose faux leather to save money while matching this trend. The jackets are paired with pants, jeans or spring skirts.
Does a shoulder bag go well with your regular office wear? Or does a laptop tote bag look more appropriate? The numerous choices available often make things more difficult. When you need to find the ideal bag to complement an outfit or match an occasion, you may benefit from the tips that follow.
For regular office use: If you need to carry only a few essentials to office daily, a shoulder bag may be suitable for the purpose. However, if you need to pack in your laptop along with the other items, this bag may not suffice.
Carrying two bags, in such a situation, may be too cumbersome. Instead, you may opt for a stylish laptop bag. These bags are big enough to carry all your essentials and are stylish enough to complement your formal office wear.
For the casual outings: Whether you are going for your college classes or to get your favourite cup of coffee at a nearby cafe, the satchels can make the right style statement when combined with the right outfits.
Also known as messenger bags, these bags are slung over one shoulder. The best advantage – you do not need to use hands to carry them. You may combine these with casual wear, maybe a pair of jeans and a tee or a pair of shorts and a blouse.
For the busy woman: Want to find the best bag for running errands? Nothing can beat the tote bags for this purpose. Made from soft, natural fibres such as cotton and jute, these are ideal for your day-to-day activities.
The eco-friendly materials used for these bags make them much better choice than plastic carry-bags. You can also order a printing service to personalise your tote with a special message or a design.
For the Boho-chic look: The Bohemian style is quite popular nowadays! Whether you love the maxi dress or the long, flowing skirts, a hobo bag is the perfect accessory to go with all kinds of Boho outfits.
Out on a shopping trip? Or are you out for a chat session with your friends? Whatever the occasion and the time of the day, you can team up these elliptical bags with Boho clothing to create the contemporary, chic look.
For the glam factor: Even when your signature style is casual, you need to invest in a classy handbag or clutch for the formal and semi-formal occasions. These small purses are ideal for your dresses.
A silver purse can add just the right dose of glitz to an elegant party dress. Gold and other jewel tones also work well with formal dresses. Embroidered purses can also look beautiful when combined with the right type of dress and occasion.
For going to the beach: When you are planning to head to the beach, you need a big bag. A lot of things need to be taken to the beach – your hat, scarf, sunscreen, sunglasses, and so on. The beach bag must be able to accommodate all these without any problem.
Colourful beach bags may be fashioned from natural fibres. Whether you choose canvas bags or jute ones, make sure there is a waterproof layer inside it. This ensures that the contents inside are not damaged even if it comes in contact with water.
Whichever style suits your taste can work well. Just keep in mind that it must be appropriate for the occasion. It must also coordinate with your outfit and other accessories. With a little planning, you will be able to buy the bags that are essential for your wardrobe. Make sure you decide the effect you want to achieve before you go shopping.
Eva Green is a professional writer. In this article she has given idea on fashionable bags, in particular tote bags. The author is solely responsible for the views and images provided in the article.
I just love summer: days spent poolside, adventures at the lake, fresh mint mojitos, and cookouts with all the fixings. I also love summer because it's sundresses and sandals season. Summer fashion is all about being cool, comfortable, and bright. Have you treated yourself to some new pieces for summer? There's no need to spend too much of your hard-earned cash. You can get summer essentials on a frugal budget. I'm going to share five warm-weather must haves that all cost less than $20!
- Maxi dresses are my ultimate go-to this year. They are so comfortable, flattering, and modest in a non-frumpy way -- you seriously can't go wrong! The striped maxi above is from Walmart -- I couldn't believe it, either! It combines stripes, cool hues, and a braided drawstring for sweet summery style. When it comes to maxis, I think stripes, florals, and solids are most flattering. Petite women should focus on solids and small prints so their small frames don't get overwhelmed. Wear this maxi with some strappy sandals, a denim jacket, and a wrist of bangles.
- You need some sunglasses for summer, of course! The pair above is only $13.53 from SunglassWarehouse.com. Again, you can't go wrong! When it comes to sunglasses, make sure you purchase a pair that block both UVA and UVB rays -- this will keep your eyes healthy on the brightest of days. For this season, sunglass trends to wear are oversized styles, round and cat eye shapes, and retro details.
- Yes, scarves are a must have for summer and winter! When it comes to summer scarves, go for breezy cool fabrics like linen, cotton, jersey, and silk. This linen Scarves Dot Net scarf is only $16.11. Its orange hue reminds me of one of my favorite summer treats: a Creamsicle! Orange is the color of summer 2012, so be sure you have a little Tangerine Tango in your wardrobe! Summer scarves are perfect for a chilly summer evening, or even an afternoon at the mall -- they keep malls icebox cold when it's hot out!
- You've gotta have at least one pair of strappy sandals for summer. I like to get sandals that are neutral colors, like the white ones above, that can be mixed and matched with lots of different outfits. These go with dresses, skirts, shorts, jeans -- and everything in between. When it comes to summer footwear, comfort is key. People tend to be out and about and walking around more during warmer months, and the chance for blisters is high!
- If there's one beauty product to invest in for summer, it's a good bronzer. Because skin safety comes first, give your skin that after-sun glow by dusting on some bronzer -- rather than baking in the sun! To use this Goddess Rocks bronzer ($20), simply sweep it onto your face where you naturally become sun-kissed: your forehead, cheeks, chin, and the bridge of your nose. My perfect summer makeup routine includes tinted moisturizer, bronzer, a sweep of mascara, and a swipe of tinted chapstick.
Author bio: Sarah Heckle is an Indianapolis fashion blogger.
It’s that time of year again, packing away our summer clothes and breaking out the fall fashions. As the weather gets colder, we reach for our scarves and coats. I’m as guilty as the next; I sometimes fall short of updating my outerwear looks each year. Luckily, there are a lot of cute and affordable jackets this season!
These jackets from JCPenney definitely bring the color! Neutral earth tones are great for fall, and these soft pinks and maroons are feminine and pretty. I really love the detailing of the pink jacket! If you’re looking for a coat that gives you a little shape, opt for a drawstring to create a defined waist. The grey jacket is made from fleece, so you know it’ll be warm and comfy.
Target is always on spot for fall fashions, and this year is no different. The double breasted looks (the blue and tan ones to left) can bring a little sophistication to your outfit, and they also have drawstrings to create that waist. The tweed trench to the right gives you a little more warmth with the longer length. Perfect for pairing with a cute sweater dress!
Last, but certainly not least, everyone’s favorite one-stop-shop Wal-Mart has some great styles this season! While earth tone colors are hot, so are monochromatic colors. Wal-Mart definitely stepped it up with their black and white pea coats, and they don’t come with designer prices! For something a little more casual, check out their asymmetrical black jacket. So cool!
These jackets from JCPenney definitely bring the color! Neutral earth tones are great for fall, and these soft pinks and maroons are feminine and pretty. I really love the detailing of the pink jacket! If you’re looking for a coat that gives you a little shape, opt for a drawstring to create a defined waist. The grey jacket is made from fleece, so you know it’ll be warm and comfy.
Author Bio:
When she’s not hunting for bargain fashions, Maggie spends her days writing for the Eye Health Guide, giving information about finding the best reading glasses. Off the clock, she enjoys finding the best fashion deals, experimenting with new recipes, and traveling.
Sure, the end of summer means no more summer vacations, hanging at the pool or beach, and looking cute in shorts and sandals. But it also means something very wonderful—fall is on the way! Maybe my red hair and pale skin keeps me from enjoying the hot weather, but I embrace fall each year. The pumpkin spice lattes, crunchy orange leaves, and the fall fashions are welcomed by me year after year. I love a good cardigan, and there’s nothing like wrapping up in a super soft scarf. Below, I’ve picked some of my favorite looks for this fall. I hope you enjoy!
1. Brown draped cardigan 2. Mustard yellow cardigan 3. Tan drawstring cardigan
I love a good cardigan! Like a scarf, you can wear whatever you want underneath, and if you get warm, you can just take off the cardigan. They’re often knitted, so you’ll love wrapping yourself in a soft, cute sweater! For fall, I love neutrals and earth tones, like the brown, mustard, and tan cardigans above.
1. Plaid handbag 2. Leatherette messenger 3. Buckle hobo
Fall is no different from the rest of the year, so play up your accessories! Handbags are a great way to show a little bit of style sass if you’re not one to give into funky fashions. Plaids, neutrals, and earth tones are hot this fall, so get a handbag that goes along with this trend! The great thing about neutrals is that they can be mixed with pretty much anything.
1. Plaid scarf 2. Knit loop scarf 3. Soft mustard scarf 4. Leopard print scarf
Ahhhh… scarves! I’m guilty of wearing summer scarves, I get really excited about breaking out my textured, soft scarves for fall. Keep an eye on loop/circle scarves, they’re going to be big this fall and winter, so are earth tones and prints. Bring back those animal prints! I really love scarves, because they’re so versatile. You can tie them around your neck, around your shoulders like a shawl, in your hair as a head wrap (think Nicole Ritchie or Blake Lively), or as a cute purse accent. Also I love the videos at Scarves.net, they give so many ways to tie a scarf, so there’s no excuse for not knowing what to do with your scarves!
1. Tan boots 2. Maroon boots 3. Grey boots
What’s a look without shoes, right?? For fall, I’m loving these cute ankle boots. They may look expensive, but they’re really not! You’ll be surprised how many cute things you can find at Walmart, Target, and Payless. While longer, knee-high boots are also going to be popular, keep an eye out for these ankle boots. They look great paired with skinny jeans!
Author Bio:
When she’s not hunting for bargain fashions, Maggie spends her days writing for the Eye Health Guide, giving information about finding the best reading glasses. Off the clock, she enjoys finding the best fashion deals, experimenting with new recipes, and traveling.
When the whole world is talking about the recycling and reusability of resources then why the clothes should be left behind. Fashion changes and with every fashion season, trends and styles also change. However, it is not possible to toss away the old clothes every time and buy new ones. At the same time, the youth of today does not want to look outdated and old fashioned. As a result, there is a rise in the recycled and re-fashioned clothes. With little imagination and creativity, even you can create the trendy and stylish garments and accessories without having to spend too much. Take a look at your closet and let your creativity flow to redefine the fashion with the old clothes. Think about the unique ways how you can create fashionable and trendy garments out of the old and rejected. Here are a few ideas on how you can create your very own style statement with the clothes that might have ended up in a trash.Create a ruffle top by cutting the sleeves:
Take out an old full sleeve top that you have already discarded from your favorite list. Cut off the sleeves and sew them again with gathers on the front to create a stylish ruffle top. Flaunt your own style statement with this unique top and rediscover your discarded piece of cloth as a trendy and stylish garment.
Add embellishment to a plain top:
Take out your plain cardigans or tops, and also a few small pieces of clothes in different contrasting colors. Cut the fabric into a flower pattern in different sizes. Sew them together to create a flower with contrasting colors. Add the flower on your top or cardigan, put some embellishment like beads or crystals. Here you are; ready with yet another stylish garment by simply using your creativity and reusing the old clothes.
Button jewelry:
Create a neckpiece, ear ring or a bracelet with the buttons of your old dresses or coats. Put them in a string and create a unique yet trendy jewelry for yourself.
Tie belt:
This must be a fun to create a belt out of neck ties. Combine, recreate and refashion the ties as a belt. Wear it with casual attire with a jean and a t-shirt for those admiring glances for your unique styling.
Flower power:
Cut the fabric into the shape of a flower and add to the corsage of a tank top. Embellish these with beads and crystals and you can walk-in to the party for all the compliments that will be thrown on to you.
A bag from old shorts:
Take out your old pair of shorts that you are going to toss away. Cut the front side away from the back side. Fold the back in the shape of a bag, add lining and add a strap and sew on the side. Be ready to flaunt your newly designed fashion accessory out of an old pair of shorts.
Trousers to trendy skirt:
Take out your polka dot baggy pants that you swore not to wear again. Create a funky trendy skirt out of it and reuse the garment with pride. Open up the middle seam of the trousers; straighten the lines by cutting it on the bottom and sides. Sew it again to create a skirt. Add a bow at the waist if you wish. You are ready with yet another stylish garment that will make people turn their heads.
The above mentioned are just a few of numerous creative ideas to reuse and re-fashion the old clothes into the new stylish and trendy ones. Use your creativity for your unique style statement and be ready to steal the show without spending a penny on new clothes.
About the author: Amanda Kidd is an avid writer and blogger who only believes in natural skin care. Her beauty guide only includes organic products and she is fond of looking out for new upcoming beauty trends like half moon manicures etc.
