We all want to show off our style, from time to time, but it can be expensive to purchase new clothing as the trends change. If you’re looking to overhaul your wardrobe on a budget, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to have yourself looking stylish from the office to a night out.

The most important thing is to be strict with yourself when it comes to budgeting and avoid making those quick, impulsive decisions when you suddenly see a new trend. Because trends can come and go so quickly, we always recommend investing in pieces that will look timeless, add a few good accessories like men’s gold bracelets or women’s dainty necklaces, and pick a limited number of trendy-looking styles for the rest of your wardrobe. Before you go out and hit the stores, check out our advice for shopping on a budget.

Set a budget for yourself

If you’re trying to limit your spending on clothing, you need to have a specific number in mind. This will keep you focused on purchasing only the pieces that you need and reduce the chance you drop too much on a shirt that you’re only going to wear once or twice (or maybe not even at all!).

Determine how much you want to spend and how much you can afford. Then, determine which stores you plan to shop at to get an idea of the average price on clothing. From this information, you can reasonably establish a strict budget that will help you avoid spending too much but still give you the freedom to buy great pieces that will last.

Avoid impulse buys

Impulsive purchases are the downfall of budget spending. It’s so easy to walk by the window of your favorite store and see a trendy new outfit or article of clothing that you feel like you have to have. Avoid the temptation. Unless the clothing fits into your budget and you’re not planning on buying anything else, try to control your desire to buy. It’s always better to approach budget shopping with a plan in mind, which is why impulse buys are usually where people exceed their means.

With the widespread use of online shopping and social media shopping, it’s easier than ever to make an impulse buy with the click of a button. If you see something during your scrolling that you really like, save it for later. If you find yourself still thinking about it, you can consider going back and purchasing at another time. In most cases, the desire to make an impulse purchase only lasts as long as the item is in front of us. Out of sight, out of mind. If it doesn’t stick out in your memory, skip that purchase.

Invest in versatile pieces

When you’re working with a strict budget, it’s important to buy pieces that are going to last. It may be tempting to hit up a fast fashion store and binge buy a bunch of cheap pieces, but these won’t last in the long run, and you’ll find yourself wanting to shop for new clothing as the styles change in a month or two.

Instead, it’s worth making the investment on other brands that have pieces that can be mixed and matched with many other styles. This means focus on pants, shirts, dresses and suit jackets that are neutral colors—items that will look good with most other colors. Those hot red pants might seem cool now, but, if you don’t have anything to wear with them, it will end up being a waste of money. When it comes to jeans, dark washes are in style and more easily match with different colors of shirts.

Shop at Discount and Thrift Stores

The best place to go when you’re ballin’ on a budget is your local thrift and discount stores. Places like TJ Maxx and Marshalls often carry designer brands at much lower prices, so you can invest in those high-quality pieces without dishing out the money to pay the regular price.

Thrift stores are also the perfect place to find great deals on nice clothing. Try shopping at a thrift store in a wealthier area of town, as many people will bring in their second-hand designer clothing, and you can reap the benefits. This type of shopping takes a little more time and diligence, but it’s worth the search in the long run.

Choose a Few High-Quality Accessories

Accessorizing your outfits is the best way to add a little extra flair and make your wardrobe a bit more versatile. However, you don’t want to spend too much money on pieces that will only work with specific outfits. Avoid those statement necklaces that are over the top and which can’t work with more than a handful of outfits.

Instead, women can find some dainty necklaces in different styles and lengths or some cute bangle bracelets. For men, you should look for high-quality accessories like watches, rings, and simple bracelets. Depending on your personal style, men’s gold chains may help tie your look together and can be worn with many different looks, from hanging with your friends to a night out on the town.

Look Stylish Without Breaking the Bank

We want you to look and feel good without having to dish out tons of money on expensive designer clothing, which is why we’ve compiled this list of tips to help you revamp that old wardrobe.

The most important part of limiting your spending is to restrict your impulse purchases. If you see something and want to buy it on the spot, fight the urge and stick to the budget you’ve created for yourself. Then, invest in well-made pieces that can match with many different pieces to keep your wardrobe sharp and put together.

Once you’ve got your staple articles down, it’s time to start thinking about accessories. Purchase a few pieces that can be worn with many different outfits, like a Rolex watch or a few simple chains, and then find ways to work them into your everyday wardrobe.

About the author;

This article was written by guest author Ron King.