OK, we all know that these days it doesn't take a lot of money to look runway chic, but there are a few pieces in your wardrobe that are worth spending a little extra money on. Take a look at this quick guide to investment dressing and budget wardrobe finds.
A Classic Coat: Outerwear is something you put on all week long, over every outfit, so it makes sense to invest in something well-crafted. What makes a luxurious coat stand out on the street? Look for a tailored fit (one that hugs your shoulders and doesn’t overwhelm your frame), top-quality fabrics (such as wool and cashmere) and distinctive details (well-placed pockets, buttons and lining). The pea coat, camel and duster coat are all classic styles that get reimagined every season and always look chic.
Simple & chic Boots:If there is one style of footwear that is equally elegant and functional, it’s the tall boot. An unadorned pair in a dark neutral color and with a slightly rounded toe are ridiculously wearable. You can match them with dress pants, dresses, skirts, jeans and leggings and they’ll always look smart — neither too casual nor overly dressy. Be wary of mid-calf heights: they’ll cut off the line of your legs and make you look shorter. A style that hits just under your kneecaps will elongate. And if you’re wearing tall boots with skirts or dresses and hosiery, match the color of your tights to the color of your boots to make legs look longest
Timeless Tote:Being tossed around, swung over shoulders and exposed to the elements, our handbags can take a beating. Budget bags can lose their luster quickly — and you can’t look polished if your tote has rips, loose threads or missing hardware. Higher-priced materials, quality clasps or closures and superior craftsmanship tend to age better than cheaper alternatives. Zero in on one that has a ladylike shape and simple metal add-ons. And don’t be afraid of color. A dark shade of navy, green, plum or red can work like a neutral and be worn day in and day out.
A Printed Top:Season to season, a different print, color and designer detail is hailed as a must-have. Budget-friendly tops are a brilliant way to incorporate hits of specific trends into your existing wardrobe without spending a lot of money. For example, with a $30 animal-print top, you can update your look instantly without feeling remorse when you stop wearing it. And a new top can make an old pair of jeans feel — and look — like new.
Statement Jewelry:When chosen carefully, inexpensive jewelery can fool even the most fashion-savvy crowd. Hit the mall and you’ll find no shortage of impressive accessories — inspired by runway styles, with eye-catching details — at a fraction of boutique prices. With statement jewelery, even a simple jeans and T-shirt outfit can be transformed several ways with the addition of an oversize necklace, glittering earrings or a stack of bangles. Study the latest designer collections to get a sense of what’s hot now.
Everyday Denim:Long gone are the days of hundred-dollar designer denim. Today, booty-flattering fits, premium fabrics and modern-looking finishes are widely available — minus the jaw-dropping prices. And since most of us live in our jeans 24/7, you need more than one pair. Three pairs is a good starting point: one to wear with flats or sneakers, one that’s work-appropriate or hemmed to wear with heels and one non-blue shade (think black, gray or white).
~XOXO FashionHustler
