Looking sharp isn’t about spending tons of money on novelty pieces each season. It’s about investing in classic pieces that you’ll wear for years. This means you can look like a million bucks without having your wallet bleed for it.
The best thing about fashion is that trends are constantly changing. Don’t worry about looking “hip” or up-to-the-minute, but you should ensure that your clothes are in good condition and fit properly. Here are nine tips to help you look sharp without breaking the bank:
1. Avoid Trends
Don’t buy new trends every season. Instead, stick to classic items that never go out of style or buy pieces in colors and styles that complement what’s already in your wardrobe. For example, tux rental is a very popular option for formal events because tuxedos have been a men’s fashion staple for over a century.
2. Buy Quality Items
The saying, “You get what you pay for,” is most accurate when it comes to items that you’ll often be wearing and will last a long time. Invest in quality over quantity and check the fabric composition of the item before you buy it. If possible, ask for a swatch of the fabric to ensure that it will withstand multiple washes without fading or wearing out.
3. Save on Dry Cleaning
If your items are made from natural fibers, they should be washed at home after every wear. Dry cleaning is expensive and wears out clothing much faster than home laundering techniques. Instead of dry-cleaning that blazer or dress, throw it in the wash with your laundry after you wear it to take off any dirt and grime.
4. Invest in Laundry Care
There are so many ways to take great care of your clothes; one of the most important ways to do this is by investing in clothing care products. These days, you can find affordable laundry detergents that are made specifically for certain materials, so it will leave your clothes looking new for longer.
5. Save Money on Shoes
Shoes are expensive, but they’ll last longer and won’t wear out as quickly if you buy ones with quality materials. Leather is the best option for shoes because it is durable, breathable, and can be shined easily to maintain its appearance.
6. Buy Vintage Clothing
There are many benefits of buying vintage over new clothing from a department store or boutique; you can often find pieces that look like designer items but cost less. By buying vintage clothing, you’re doing your part to reduce the amount of textile waste in landfills.
7. Check Online Boutiques
If you love styles or brands that aren’t available locally, try shopping online at smaller boutiques or discount clothing retailers. You’ll be able to find a wider selection of clothes and pay less for shipping than you would if your purchases were being shipped from large department stores.
8. Use Online Coupons
When shopping online, print out coupons for the sites you visit most often. Check the website frequently as companies often release special promotional codes to make their items even more affordable.
9. Sell or Swap Outgrown Clothes with Friends and Family
Instead of donating used clothing, you should sell them or share them with friends and family members who are roughly the same size as you. If you’re not sure what pieces your friends are looking for, offer them a few pieces that you no longer wear to see which ones they like.
10. Check Local Thrift Stores
Consider checking out a local thrift shop because you can often find gently used items that look brand new for a fraction of the cost. You might have to sift through a few pieces, but it’s worth it when you consider how much money you’ll be saving.
11. Start Shopping for New Clothes Later
If your closet is out of control, it might be best to avoid shopping for new clothes until you have time to sort through your existing wardrobe. Clear off a few hangers in your closet so that you can easily see what’s inside and start looking for items that you haven’t worn in a while.
Looking like a million bucks doesn’t have to cost you a million bucks. Appearances are important when meeting clients and potential investors for your future business, but that doesn’t mean you should break the bank to look presentable.
By shopping smartly and using the tips in this article, you’ll be able to look your best without spending a ton of money. But always remember that the clothes on your back don’t make the man; it’s what you do in them that truly matters.
