Motley Necklace

Dear Girlfriends -

Fashionistas we are all trying to be smart these days in making our clothes last and maximizing our clothing budget.  There are several simple strategies for scoring the best deals and finding the wardrobe essentials you’ll turn to again and again.

I asked a few girlfriends how they maximize and we were able to come up with these frugalista tips!

If you like a piece that might need alteration, ask if the store provides free tailoring: Often, they’ll throw it in to make the sale.  Some retailers offer it gratis or for a minimal price.

Pencil Skirt Suit by DSquared2

Chris Benz Suit

Jacket for DSquared2

I’ve stocked up on long chain necklaces at Forever 21, especially ones with tassels  or lockets.  I’ll wear them until they fall apart , and then I throw on a few and knot them together to make slightly messy, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Braided Stones and Chains

Avoid overdrying clothing in the dryer. Not only is that wasted energy; it’s beating fibers from your clothing. If you have a combination load, remove lightweight or synthetics items before the load is completely dry, too.

Animal-skin accessories are generally super-pricey – you can get the same luxe effect with stamped leather or vinyl instead.

BE&D Kan Kan Zip Tote

Daphne Duffel Bag in Moc Croc

Cotton tops are fantastic, but when it comes to layering, my girlfriends like fabric that’s around 80 percent rayon.

Bianca Blouse

Nicole Top

When doing a major day of shopping, bring specialy undergarments, like a convertible bra or Spanx. You might find that you can pull something off – an asymmetrical top, a snug dress – that just wouldn’t work with normal underwear.

Nancy Blazer

Nuit Garter Tank

Girlfriends,  clothes are expensive and in order to make you clothes last, as well use the gentle cycle when possible.  How about putting on an apron or older clothes when cooking to prevent stains. And if you do get a stain, address it as soon as possible.

If possible, change out of work clothes when you get home so there’s less wear on your good clothes and of course zip up zippers, and close any Velcro fasteners to prevent snags and pulls.
 

Until the next style adventure,

Monica