Why Classic Styles Offer the Best Clothing Value
by Diana
Pemberton-Sikes
zone3
“I want to look good without spending a lot of money. What's the best
way to use my clothing budget?”
This question - or variations there of - regularly hits my inbox from
readers all over the world. While we may not all speak the same language,
there are a few things up on which we can all agree that make us take leave
of our senses: rich chocolate, handsome men, and clothes that are too cute
to leave behind at the store.
So what's a gal to do, particularly when she's been saddled with
champagne tastes on a beer budget?
First, set down those glossy fashion magazines and backaway from them
slowly. They can be dangerous, particularly if you don't know how to use
them. $700 pants? $500shoes? Who can afford to buy these things? Not many!
Look at what's popular, swipe some styling ideas, then go replicate the
looks in prices that you can afford.
Secondly, start viewing any “must have” list with healthy skepticism.
These are the latest trends that the designers are showing that will be
dated by this time next year. Some will be cute, true, but others will
only be cute on the models that show them. Once you learn what looks good on
you and what doesn't, you'll be a lot less susceptible to buying what
others say you “must have” each season.
Finally, invest in classic pieces that work well on your body. It's the
single best way to get the most mile age out of your clothing budget,
because you can wear classic styles for several years without ever looking
dated. Top a classic base with a trendy accessory, and you'll look
“aucourant” without going in the red.
So what exactly ARE classic styles, and how do you know one when you see
it?
Classics are styles that have been popular for years because of their
clean lines and utilitarian features. While trends are instantly
recognizable by length, pattern, or decoration, classics transcend time
with their cut, style, and fabric. They can be worn alone, layered, dressed
up or dressed down, and can be made to look current by adding something
trendy.
Examples of classics include:
Jeans
Turtleneck
Cardigan
T-shirt
Sleeveless Sheath
Tailored Jacket
Crisp shirt
Trench Coat
Kelly bag
Penny loafer
There are some years when these styles are more popular and some years
when they're less, but they continue to sell well because they fit a
variety of body types and offer a simple, unfussy silhouette. Get them in
basic, solid colors, and you can wear them for years to come.
But won't you get bored with the “same old thing?”
Only if you have no imagination.
The neat thing about classics is that they not only look great all by
themselves, they serve as a wonderful back drop to flashier pieces. Add a
snazzy jacket, funky hosiery, or a great pair of shoes, and you'll be able
to brilliantly showcase the new piece using your classic staples as
a back drop.
Your friends, family, and coworkers will think you spend a fortune on
your clothes, when in reality you're merely adding a few “to die for”
pieces each year. It's a clever way to expand your wardrobe choices without
over spending your budget or over-cramming your closet.
So the next time you're in a quandary as to what to add to your
wardrobe, opt for classics. They're clean, versatile, easy-to-wear, and
make the most of your budget. Dressing well just doesn't get any easier
than this!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Have designer tastes but a discount budget? Diana Pemberton-Sikes has
helped thousands of women create a stunning style on limited funds with
her fun, fresh approach to fashion. Sign up for her popular weekly ezine.
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