- Because nobody said you can't have style for less...
Fashion trends change so fast these days that you’ll probably be slipping into your Y2K jeans just as they’re going out of style. It’s tough trying to keep your fits perfect when there is always a new trend to explore and products hitting the market. That crochet bucket hat everyone had to have last summer. The beaded bracelets that swept IG by storm.
Don’t even get us started on the 90s cargo pants renaissance. If you’re worried about choosing between looking great or going broke, this article is here to help. Check out our best suggestions for staying fashionable without spending every cent you have.
Avoid Fast Fashion
We know that trends are so hard to resist sometimes, especially when your favorite influencers manage to make everything look so good. But it pays to save and invest in the right pieces. Although it’s okay to splurge once and a while, try to set a rule that you will only buy clothes you will wear for at least a full year.
Set a Budget for One Essential Buy Each Season
Rather than feel as though you need to get your hands on every fashion trend, settle on trying just one or two each season. Budgeting this way can help you avoid impulse buys and major regrets down the line. If you’re ready to start managing a budget, consider choosing the right credit card for your lifestyle. Using it to buy things and paying your bill on time each month is a good way to build credit while you’re in college.
Embrace Your Own Style
Are you all about that 90s pop star aesthetic? Or maybe you’re the epitome of grandma core coastal fashion. Perhaps you couldn’t care less about any labels and just want to wear whatever you want in peace. Although trends are fun, they’re exactly that. By their nature, they will rapidly rise in popularity before they inevitably fall out of style.
Moral of the story? Don’t sweat it if you can’t afford it or just don’t want to buy the latest in-thing. Embracing your own style gives you more freedom to get creative with your closet. You’ll also probably find yourself buying pieces with a lot more intention behind them. Instead of just making sure you look good on the gram, you can dress for yourself.
Don’t Be Afraid to Buy Secondhand
You’ve probably seen some fashion influencers selling their clothes on Poshmark. This can be a good way to get your hands on some trendy pieces without paying the full price. You can also look on eBay, Tradesy, and even just your local second-hand clothing store to find some pieces that will surprise you. For extra fun, consider hosting a clothes swap party with your friends. Everyone brings a small bag of items they’re ready to part with, and you get to shop around throughout the night without paying for a thing.
Create Your Own Trends
You may not be super famous on IG or TikTok, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be a trendsetter. Some of the most bizarre fashion trends from the past were started by people just doing their own thing. Decide what you’re passionate about right now. Maybe it’s eco fabrics, or you want to only wear handmade tops for the summer. You could even play off a certain theme, like summer in Italy, to create summer looks that are 100% original. Creating your own trends allows you to still have fun with fashion without the need to constantly buy more stuff.
Make the Most of Accessories
You can stay in trend without having to always overhaul your wardrobe. Accessories are more affordable in most cases, and they are also easier to swap out than staple items like jeans and shoes. As with other fashion items, pay attention to where products come from. The great thing about accessories is that there are so many affordable, handmade pieces you can order on Etsy or IG. Support small business owners by shopping locally or ordering directly from them online.
Invest in Staple Pieces
Once you have essential attire in your closet, staying fashionable becomes a lot easier. Instead of having to buy your outfits from scratch, you’ll only have to choose the best pieces of the season that flatter what you’re already confident wearing.