Changing your look doesn't necessarily mean changing your wardrobe.
When you're living on a budget, it doesn't necessarily make sense to spend a lot of your hard-earned money updating your wardrobe. You've got bills to pay and groceries to buy, so rather than break the bank on a new look, why not get creative with what's already in your closet? Recycling wardrobes has become something of a trend -- and while it might not give you the same high as perusing popular fashion magazines -- it will certainly save you a lot of money. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Simplify your closet. Before you begin changing-up your wardrobe, clean it out. Start by taking everything out of your closet and drawers. Get rid of those old blue jeans that no longer fit; or those never-been-worn Christmas sweaters that have been hanging in your closet for years. And what about those moth-eaten sweats that have seen better days? By cycling out these items, you start with a fresh palette. Pack the clothing you intend to give away into large garbage bags and donate them to your favorite charitable organization.
2. Sort through your clothing and categorize them by season -- winter, spring, summer and fall. As you sort through your clothes, you may find pieces that you've forgotten you have. As you sort them by season, also separate them by color. This will make mixing-and-matching much easier down the line.
3. Update your favorite clothing. If you have a blouse that you've worn for years and you'd like to give it a makeover, replace the old, plain buttons with new, brighter buttons. If your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans could use a bit of a boost, go to your local craft store and purchase some jewels to attach to the pockets, giving them a fresh, new look. This is a good way to get creative, without having to spend a lot of money.
4. Look for style ideas in popular fashion magazines. Notice how fashion designers use different textures of fabric, accessories, jewelry and shoes. Chances are, if your closet contains some of the basics, you can mix-and-match to get the same looks you see in high fashion magazines. Experiment with color and style, accessories and shoes. Play dress-up and see what works.
5. Swap clothes with your girlfriends. A clever way to save money and change-up your wardrobe in a fun and frugal way, is to exchange clothes with your friends. If you've had your eye on a cute little black number in your friend's closet -- an item she no longer wears -- offer to swap it for an item in your closet: Perhaps you have something she's had her eye on. In fact, get all of your friends involved.
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