There are ways to update your wardrobe without spending a lot of money and in the middle of a Credit Crunch; there is no better time to be bold with your budgeting! Here are some simple ways to give your wardrobe a makeover without breaking the bank:
Clean out the closet
Sort through your clothes and order them into three piles: keep, toss and donate. Pack up all the clothes you don't need, wash them and donate them to a charity or op shop.
While it might involve a little research it is also worth looking into whether there are any recycled clothing stores in your area that pay for donations or offer store credits.
For example Savers, allowing you to make a little pocket money from your pre-loved fashions. Or alternatively gather your friends and host a ‘Swap-Shop’ party.
Play dress-ups
With the clothes you have chosen to keep, try to put together as many new combinations and outfits as possible. Mix and match old re-discovered numbers with newer purchases to find new ways to wear the things you already own. If it helps to remember your new looks, take a snap shot and put together your very own look book.
eBay it
Selling items on eBay is another great way to clear out the closet and make room for new purchases with the money you will make from selling the old. Make sure all items are in good condition, take some good quality photos and wait for the bids to roll in on your treasures. Visit www.ebay.com.au to register.
Bag, Borrow or Steal
Now days you can actually rent the stuff you can’t afford. To rent a handbag, go to www.bagborroworsteal.com. Or, just borrow. It’s old fashioned, and you don’t get to keep the clothes, but you’re wearing something different and that’s what counts. Once you consider sisters, friends and housemates, your Saturday night party garb options are endless!
Dye(ing) for new clothes
Get hold of some dye and turn boring old clothes a fab new colour. Cotton, linen and viscose all dye really well but note that any fabric that's mixed with polyester will result in lighter shades than shown on the dye box. Wool and silk should be dyed with a fabric hand dye. Also consider vamping up a faded frock in a flash by tie-dying it.
Cheap and chic
Consider cheap ways to transform an ensemble. Think printed neck scarves, belts and chunky jewellery such as necklaces and brooches. Most of these items can be picked up in charity stores, or if your luck your mother’s or grandmother’s wardrobes.
Alter-ego
A girl’s second best friend to her drycleaner is her tailor! Simple alterations such as shortening a skirt hem will make a world of difference to outdated ensembles. Consider this while treasure hunting in charity stores. Most simple alterations will not set you back a lot of money.
Good for something
Raid your boyfriend and brother’s wardrobes. Oversized items like black vests, cardigans, boxy blazers and the classic white button down shirt look beyond stylish when paired with skinny jeans and tights. Grab their ties while you’re there too, wear them as belts and headscarves.
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