You and your Clothes
Fashion, Frumpy, or
Frugal?
by Nikki Willhite
www.allthingsfrugal.com
I guess it's pretty obvious that if you try and keep up with fashion, you
will go broke. My goal is to try and keep up the illusion of keeping up with
fashion.
For instance- there are some colors that are just considered dated. I try not
to wear those colors. A lot of times it isn't so much the color, but the fabric
that it has been applied to that makes it look so dated. Colors return, but in
slightly different shades.
It is pretty easy to develop your sense of what is outdated. Just go into a
thrift store and look around. Most of the clothes will be outdated. Take note of
the colors, fabric, styles, and lines of the clothing.
Today's clothing is more relaxed. There are good buys in thrift stores, but it takes a good eye to
separate that which is fashionable and of value from items that are hopelessly
outdated.
Clothing with classic lines can last for years without going out of style. If
you always shop seasonal sales, you may be able to find new clothing just as
cheap in retail stores. In February and March you will find Sweaters at
give-away prices. Sweaters are a great staple in your wardrobe. Since they are a
separate they can be worn in many ways, and dressed up or down.
If you want to save money on clothing, you need to develop your own personal
style, and stick with it. No matter how fashionable an item of clothing , unless
it looks good on you, you will look frumpy.
It takes a bit of time in the beginning, but saves time and money in the long
run. Everyone is different. Learn which lines flatter your figure and the shape
of your face, and what colors are flattering to your skin tone.
Learn which styles of necklines flatter you (such as a jewel neck, v-shaped,
rounded, square, cowl, etc). Look at yourself in the mirror applying the squint
test. Step back and squint at yourself in a mirror to get an overall general
impression of yourself. Are you full of curves, straight lines, or both?
If you have a round face, you will not look good in clothing with bold
straight lines. If your face is angular, avoid clothing and accessories with
rounded lines. Apply this to your accessories also. Don't carry a rounded
handbag if you have an angular frame. If you are straight lined or angular,
don't buy a pouch type purse.
There are many kinds of patterned designs. Some are rounded, some are very
geometric and full of straight lines. Everyone talks about color- but wearing
clothes that are in harmony with your body type is just as important.
Once you know your style, another advantage is that you can shop online with
confidence- often saving you time and money.
If you do your homework, you can avoid costly buying mistakes. Your wardrobe
will go together better, and you will find that you need fewer clothes. |