{budget}fab*

guest post: tips for the frugal fashionista

Posted on 08. Apr, 2010 by janelle in fashion bailout

We’re happy to welcome Robin Fisher to {budget}fab*! Robin is the President and Chief Stylist of POLISHED, an upscale image consulting firm offering professional women a fresh, workable approach to style tailored around their personal goals and lifestyle. Robin is also the Style Editor for Eco-Beautiful Weddings Magazine, was featured in My Day Magazine and was named a Woman on the Rise by the National Organization for African-American Women.

By: Robin Fisher

Let’s be honest. Times are tough. Money is tight, but that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice looking stylish and sophisticated. It’s about shopping smart and with these tips in your back pocket, you can be a frugal fashionista!

1. TAKE INVENTORY - Review your current wardrobe and take note of the items that you already have that can be updated with Spring 2010 trend appropriate items such as:

- Gladiator Sandals
- Floral Prints
- Coral Tone Tops
- Large Statement Accessories

Also ask yourself is there any item that you currently have that can be redesigned to meet your current style needs. (Example: Dress that can be cut and altered to become a skirt or shirt)

2. GET FOCUSED - Make a shopping list or storyboard of the designer trends you like. These trends are shown on the runway approximately 6 months in advance before they become in season. You can visit websites such as www.nymag.com/fashion to review pictures of runway shows or cut out images of magazines to create a collage that communicates your desired Spring 2010 look.

3. GET PICKY - You are now armed with your list of must-haves to create your Spring looks, so get ready to hit the mall, online retail sites, and local vintage stores. The key to making sure you don’t waste your money is to be picky. We are all guilty of impulse buying, but during these economic times every cent counts. Be sure that you are selecting items that are the right fit, color, fabric, and scale for you. With so many versions of the same style in the market, you must take your time and make sure you have the best one for you.

4. SHOP - Discount stores such as Loehmanns and Filene’s Basement always have great quality items at great prices. Additionally, major retailers slash their prices during the Spring on merchandise they received in February, so make sure you get to those first markdowns in April and July. Lastly, vintage shops are also a great place to get individual fashion items that only you will rock at a great price.

5. LOVE IT! - If you don’t love it when you see it on you then leave it in the store, don’t settle. The goal is to build a wardrobe that you love all the time!

Tags: budget-friendly, consultant, eco-beautiful, fashion, image, polished, style, weddings