How To Upgrade Your Wardrobe On Any Budget

Have you ever been getting ready for a night out and found yourself staring into a closet full of clothes that just aren’t quite right? What’s the fix? A shopping spree?!? Maybe for some, but if your budget doesn’t support that fantasy, there are still ways to get the wardrobe refresh you seek! Given the state of the economy and the world in general, it feels frivolous to blow money on more clothes. Personally, I know I'm guilty of taking up more than my fair share of closet space, but I loves me some shiny pretty frocks sooo shiny pretty frocks I must have! Knowing this about myself, I have to put boundaries in place and one of the boundaries is that I don't spend money on new clothes or fabric for myself. It forces me to use up the *insane* amount of fabric that I already have, and I can get creative with what I find at the thrift store, or even what I find in my own closet. If you're feeling blah about what you wear then let me help you upgrade. Sometimes you don’t need anything new at all, you just need to look at what you’ve got through a new lens…a higher more crafty lens ;)

Appliques

You can DIY or purchase all sorts of appliques that you can then use to adorn clothes that you think need a refresh. Whether you opt for a single applique or a themed array, it's an easy way to add your own personal style to any clothing item. Appliques are also a great way to use up fabric scraps. By cutting simple shapes and layering them, you can create an endless variety of things. A red oval, and a few black dots and strips could be the perfect ladybug. You'll be able to find iron-on versions, but if you're on a budget you can always work with what you have on hand.

Trims

If you have a fabric or crafting store nearby you'll have no trouble finding plenty of options for trims. Whether it's tassels, pom poms, fringe or just plain old ribbon, trims can transform a jacket, top or pair of pants. The most obvious use would be adding trim to the hems of shirts or pants, but you can also use them in more unexpected ways too. Using ribbon or a trim to add an abstract design or create letters on your clothes is another way to give your them a completely new look and add some personalization.

Upcycling

Even if you’re not the sewing type you still have a wide variety of upcycled projects you can do, some that don’t require any cutting or sewing at all. Taking an old shirt and wearing it as a skirt or changing the way you wear a dress are great examples of thinking outside the box when it comes to your clothes. Just because they’re sold as one thing doesn’t mean they can’t become something else.

Rent The Runway

If you’re into designer clothes but you’re trying to do right by the environment, then maybe www.renttherunway.com is right for you. They carry a range of items from a number of designer brands which means you can get the looks you want and stay on trend for a fraction of the cost. In addition to saving yourself money, you’re saving the planet by not contributing to the strain that the fashion industry puts on earth.

Buttons

So simple and easy to add onto anything, buttons can add function and also be a fun design element. Whether you want to turn a sweater into a cardigan or just add embellishments buttons can make it happen. Covering the collar of an old button down or adding some whimsy to an old pair of jeans can be done with minimal supplies, especially if you get a bulk bag of buttons.

Alternative Styling

If you have favorite clothing items, chances are you also have equally favorite ways to wear those items. If you can start to look at your clothes in new ways, then you can open up new worlds of outfit possibilities. Trying new color combinations or different accessories are small changes in styling that can have a big impact on your overall look. Stepping out of your comfort zone can help you turn clothes you feel blah about into clothes you can’t wait to wear.

Clothes Swap

If you’re the type that has stylish friends who happen to be your same size, then this is the option for you! Feeling like your closet needs a refresh is a very common feeling, so if you’re feeling it then you probably have friends or family that are feeling it too. One way to take advantage of that is by hosting a clothing swap. Everyone brings gently worn items and you can pick and choose what works for you, which means new clothes for $0. Depending on how you set it up the swap can include clothes, accessories, bags or even household items. Connect with your friends, family or even your neighbors. And if there’s leftovers, you can donate them to a local shelter or thrift store.

Thrifting

Speaking of thrift stores, this is one of the best ways to get budget friendly clothes while minimizing your impact on the environment. Since thrifting has become more popular over the last several years it can be difficult to find places that are offering up quality and affordability like they used to, but with a little research you can still find great places to buy secondhand. If you stick to local shops and try to avoid places with nationwide operations like Goodwill and The Salvation Army, you'll be doing a good thing for your community as well as the environment.

While this is by no means and exhaustive list of ways to upgrade your wardrobe, it's a great place to start if you're becoming more aware of the negative impact the fashion industry has on the earth and it's resources. Being more conscious about where your clothes come from is good for your wallet and your world.

Happy Styling!