Building A Wardrobe of Classics: Spend Wisely, Save Later
I’ve heard the phrase ‘less is more’ time and time again throughout my life, as I’m sure all of you have. It’s one of those things that you hear all of the time but really don’t think about. However, it rings true for many things in life! For a conversation, less words spoken can be more wise. For a gallery wall, a collage of black and white photos can be just as beautiful (if not more beautiful) than a vivacious splash of color. This rule of thumb is no different in the fashion world!
That being said, I have been focusing on being wiser when it comes to my shopping. I tend to be an impulsive ‘love it, want it, need it’ type of consumer and I really want to move away from that. By indulging in trends-of-the-moment, it leaves me with less ways to mix and match what I already have and I end up spending more in the end. By upgrading my wardrobe and leaning more towards classic investment pieces, I will save in the long run!
Here’s a few tips that I’ve learned along the way so far!
1- Study where to shop.
Browse many stores, boutiques, and websites to compare quality and style. Read the reviews and really discover what people are saying about the quality and fit. Most stores have a line of classics that they reproduce in different colors and patterns for every season. For instance, Banana Republic has a Sloan fit pencil skirt that is always in stock. It’s usually available in classic colors and then they add in a few seasonal colors, as well.
The internet is such a powerful tool because people post their opinions everywhere! If it’s an uncomfortable or unflattering fit, their reviews will save you the trouble. Once you learn who sells what, you’ll be able to narrow down what styles flatter your body type, what fits your preferences, and what materials are lasting. My favorite shops include Banana Republic, White House Black Market, J.Crew, Express, and recently, Ann Taylor.
2- Learn your favorite stores sale cycles.
The stores I listed are expensive but it’s possible to get a good deal if you look. Most people view the marketing emails as spam, but I recommend subscribing to your top 5 favorite stores. That way you get notifications of when they’re running these promotions! So from my experiences, I know that Banana Republic often runs a 40% off promo. I’ll shop at my convenience, put things in my online cart, and then wait until I get the email about the sale. They run the discount often enough where you likely won’t miss out on the products you have your eye on!
White House Black Market has THE best quality shoes with a pretty decent comfort level! They typically run within the $100-$150 price range, which is way more than I can spend. I wait until I get their ‘new reductions’ email notification and then check out what’s on sale. Their boutiques don’t carry many sale items, so you definitely have to order online. Since it comes from the warehouse, they usually have a nice size selection. You can get an amazing pair of shoes anywhere from $30 to $70!
3- There is a chic elegance to minimalism.
Apply your thrifty sales knowledge to your favorite store’s classic pieces. The black midi skirt I’m wearing is from Banana Republic. It’s made of a fabulous ‘scuba’ fabric that makes it less prone to wrinkles and gives it a shine that appears very luxe! I got it for 40% off and I expect it to last me years! The light pink tee is from Express. It probably won’t be as long lasting, but it’s a simple piece that I got on sale for $10-$20. It can be dressed up by being paired with a skirt or dressed down with a pair of jeans for the weekend.
4- Go trend-crazy with accessories.
To enjoy the trends-of-the-moment, have a revolving door of accessories! This LC Lauren Conrad statement necklace adds a trendy flair to my look and it was inexpensive. There’s also accessory services, like RocksBox. I pay $20/month and rent 3 pieces of jewelry at a time. I keep it as long as I want and then send it back when I’m ready for something new.
THE LOOK
Express Tee // Express Windowpane Blazer (similar: Striped Zip Pocket Jacket) // Banana Republic Midi Skirt (similar: Ann Taylor Circle Skirt) // Nine West Pointed Toe Pumps (similar: Ann Taylor Eryn Heels) // Jennifer Lopez Nude Foldover Clutch (similar: Silver Foldover Clutch) // LC Lauren Conrad Statement Necklace // Movado Bold Luxe Chronograph c/o Movado
How do you pick your closet staples?
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Linking up with these fabulous ladies!
Love how you combined this jacket, well done!
XX
http://www.floortjeloves.com
http://www.facebook.com/floortjeloves
I've been trying to buy less impulse buys and really go for things that I know I'll wear over and over! I would rather spend a little more on things I really love than a bunch of cheapo things! I absolutely love that blazer and you look fab in glasses!
~Sara
I could really use these tips. But sometimes it's hard when you see something you really like and it's on sale. Ha 🙂
By the way, I have new posts up. I'd love to hear what you think 🙂
xo,
Abby
Life in the Fash Lane
I love all these tips and this feminine, flirty outfit! You look amazing!
Good tips Christie! You look so great in this classic chic look!
Marta
http://www.sweatersstripesandsweets.com
Great tips! That blazer is my favorite – So classic!
-Tatiana
We Shop in Heels
Love this post! Thank you for all the tips and your jacket is fab! x
http://sweatshirtsanddresses.com/
You look so cute in glasses! I love your windowpane blazer too.
Amy Ann
The Real Arnolds
Great tips! I love your classic-fitted blazer with a fun and trendy pattern! Such a good buy!
These are all such great tips!! Love that windowpane blazer! You look fabulous!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
Awesome tips! I like how you say that there is some chic elegance to minimalism, and I am lately identifying with this♥
Lakshmi in Trance