5 tips on how to save money on clothes shopping

One thing that is definitely a style challenge is sticking to a budget.

Whether it be rising electricity costs, ongoing medical bills, presents for the festive season or our least favourite — unexpected car mechanic visits, there is always something to diminish those savings you had put aside for the next fun shopping trip.

Never fear — you don’t need to spend a lot of money to look stylish. Here are 5 things to keep in mind as you browse for ways to elevate your look this Christmas.

Don’t build a wardrobe of cheap, poor quality clothes

Not only will they perish, fade and lose their shape after multiple washes, fast fashion is also unethical and environmentally damaging — adding to landfill and exacerbating sweat shop scenarios across the globe.

Before you shop at your favourite outlet, give the brand a quick Google search to see if they’re guilty of this fashion crime and steer clear if they are. Otherwise, those $20 blouses can end up costing you over $100 if you have to keep buying replacements as they fall apart.

Make your core wardrobe as high quality as you can afford

High quality chain superstores like Country Road, Witchery and Sportscraft often run great sales, especially during the Christmas season.

If you’ve missed a sale or are waiting for the next one, it never hurts to be prepared: check their online catalogues, try out your shortlisted favourites in-store and then snatch up your size online when the sales come on. More often than not, you could be saving an average of 40% on each purchase!

Don’t be afraid to shop around online or at op shops

Vintage, preloved, thrifting, eBay… these are some buzz words that you should keep an ear out for when sourcing clothing on a budget.

When you do go shopping at places like these, remmeber to ignore synthetic fabrics. Instead, look for high quality natural fabrics (e.g. 100% cotton, wool, leather, silk, linen) — they will last longer, look more expensive and let your body breathe. Know your brands and choose your suburb.

And learn to love online shopping! Great bargains are to be had on opposite timezones from the US and UK stores. Places like Etsy, eBay, Amazon and more are great ways to source your favourite clothing styles without limit and at great discounts.

Do as the Europeans do

Work on a PPW (Price Per Wear) system for high-quality, classic items that will not go out of style if they are out of your monthly/seasonal/yearly wardrobe budget.

f you are on a budget ,don’t buy expensive, tricky or detailed pieces — look for simple, well-cut shapes and avoid detail, ruching or trendy zips. This will make the piece timeless.

If you are going for pattern, opt for classic patterns like leopard, polka dot, stripe, houndstooth and checkered.

Don’t shop without purpose

Firstly, review your wardrobe so that you know what pieces need to be found to make the perfect, versatile wardrobe for yourself. Every season, do a quick refresher so you know what key pieces you should be looking to add. This keeps you focussed so you don’t spend $100 on another pair of black trousers when you are really needing to add a tailored lightweight blazer, for example.