We’re constantly bombarded with images, special sales, and can’t-pass-up deals that make it easy to acquire more and more stuff.
Heck, I go to Target to buy light bulbs and end up with a cart filled with everything from bananas to new pajamas. Instead, we need to shop with a plan, a purpose…and a well-defined list (hint: this is just one of the features included in the B.Styled Style Systems.
We also need to allocate our clothing budget in a way that makes sense. To help, I created this graphic showing where to spend your money, and where to save. And see below for the live video I made on the topic:
WHEN TO SPEND:
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- Jeans: Cheap denim is tempting I know, but it also loses its shape and fades much more quickly than premium brands. I think everyone should own at least one pair of high-quality, perfectly fitting jeans. When you find a brand you love, keep a lookout for sales. I’ve even bought my favorite Paige jeans on eBay!
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- BRAS: Don’t skimp on the foundation. Invest in perfectly fitting bras – and get undies that show no VPLs (visible panty lines). While only a few people will see them, their effects are obvious. 😉 I recommend going to a favorite, dependable department store’s lingerie department ( is my top pick) and ask for their most seasoned, experienced bra-fitter. You can even make an appointment in advance. Or, if you are local to me in MA, I highly recommend the ladies of Jo-Karen in Acton. Tell them I sent you;) they will hook you up – literally;)
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- Jackets/Blazers: Don’t underestimate the power of a fitted blazer. It can complete a work outfit and gives shape to your casual looks, providing a polished finishing touch.
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- Shoes: Fabulous shoes can transform and upgrade a $20 dress. On the flip side, cheap shoes can instantly downgrade an otherwise fabulous outfit. Shoes (and handbags) are an area where quality over quality rules (my apologies to you shoe collectors out there;)
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- Coat: Your coat is something you may wear every single day and it makes a statement as you enter and exit. Invest in a coat you love that has classic staying power so you can resurrect it year after year.
WHEN TO SAVE:
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- Statement Jewelry: If you know me, you know I love a funky necklace. Take your wardrobe foundations and transform them completely with the jewelry you add. The options for fabulous, affordable jewelry are endless. The key is to find inexpensive pieces without looking “cheap”. After years of resisting it as being “too expensive”, I am now a firm believer in Stella & Dot jewelry and chose to represent them as a stylist too. I love their high-end-looking designs, incredible attention to detail and quality, and phenomenal customer service. I have pieces that look exactly as they did the day I bought them, several years ago.So, while you don’t have to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on 18k gold, diamonds, and other expensive gemstones – quality, on-trend costume jewelry gives your wardrobe a huge bang for the buck.
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- Occasion Items: Special Occasion = Infrequent Use. Don’t spend a fortune on glitzy bags, earrings, or metallic heels when there are plenty of inexpensive options out there. Instead, invest in a fabulous dress that’ll be ready for you when the invitation arrives. Or, borrow from a friend or rent those rare special occasion dresses.
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- Tee, Tanks & Knits: Premium knits made from fine, soft fibers often get holes and stains (think armpit) quicker than their bargain alternatives. It’s a good idea to have a couple of quality cashmere sweaters, but for tees and layering pieces, make sure they fit and flatter — but go for the bargains.
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- Scarves: When you see a scarf that speaks to you and it’s a good deal, grab it. Like statement jewelry, scarves are a fantastic and affordable way to add color and pattern to your wardrobe essentials….and display your individual personality.
In a nutshell:
- SPLURGE AND SPEND: Frequent Use • Durable • Classic • Essentials • BRA’S & COATS • Signature Items
- SAVE: Delicate • Low Use • Trendy • Accent Pieces
Now, go #justgetdressed 😉