The Savvy Life

Keeping your budget intact doesn’t mean that you have to go around dressed like a plain Jane or one of Fagin’s orphans. Here are a few suggestions for dressing your best using what you already own and for making the right choice when it comes time to purchase something new.

1) Less Is More
The first step toward a closet that really works is trying on everything in it. Carefully weed out what doesn’t flatter you. This is necessary in order to bring your viable options into focus. Then, when you know that everything in your closet looks good on you, you can easily assemble attractive outfits.

2) Make Necessary Alterations
Sometimes a garment that you love just doesn’t look quite right anymore. Consider having it altered. Characteristics like quality fabric, great details, or vibrant color may make the item worth saving. Sometimes, all it takes is a little tweaking to make it a standout favorite once again. Raising or lowering a hemline, changing a sleeve length, or nipping in a waistline can totally change the look of a garment. Take the piece to a local tailor or even to your own sewing table. Making small adjustments will usually cost less than the price of a new garment.

3) Mix It Up
Consider a fresh take on how you wear something. Use a belt to rein in a flowing blouse or dress. Wear a contrasting jacket or cardigan. Experiment with silhouettes. Pair a tunic top with skinny bottoms, a fitted sweater over wide leg pants, or put a tailored vest over a romantic blouse.

4) Play with Color
Break out of the rut of wearing only darks and neutrals! Create interest in an otherwise boring outfit by adding a pop of color. Pair red shoes or a yellow bag with your classic black suit or pair a blue shirt with your brown pants instead of the usual white one. Wear a bold piece of colorful jewelry or add a patterned scarf at the neck or waist.

5) Borrow or Trade with a Friend
Sometimes all you need to make an outfit work is a great belt or handbag. If your friends or family members will let you, see if you can find something in their closet that you may borrow. They even may be willing to trade you for an item that you no longer want. Take this idea to the next level and host a clothing trade party. Invite a few friends over, asking them to bring three items to trade (make it a mix of clothing and accessories, so guests of different sizes can still swap). Add appetizers and drinks, and you have a fun “Girl's Night In.” Plus everyone goes home with something new!

Time To Go Shopping

When the time comes to add a piece to your wardrobe, consider the following:

1. Purchase classic styles that flatter your figure, rather than trendy pieces that will quickly go out of style.
2. Buy only what you love. What you wear should make you feel good! If you feel just so-so about something, be patient and wait until that right piece comes along. Those will be the pieces that reflect your personal style and stay in your closet for years to come.
3. Use inexpensive accessories like scarves and fashion jewelry to add an “of the moment” edge to an outfit.
4. Keep a running list of what you need to fill “holes” in your wardrobe. Perhaps you are in need of an updated pair of black pumps or know that a red scarf would add life to two blouses that you already own. Keep your eye out for a great deal on these items.
5. Look ahead to upcoming events. If you know that you will be attending two holiday parties this season, start planning what you will need to purchase well in advance. That way, you won’t be shopping at the last minute, stressed, and forced to pay more than you’d like for something that you don’t really love.

Dressing stylishly doesn’t mean having to purchase the latest fashion trend. Adding your own fresh twists to the clothing that you already own and making the occasional smart purchase will keep both you and your budget picture perfect.

Rachel Mari is a writer and copy editor who resides in the Garden State with her husband. Her current interests include organic gardening, the French language, and building the perfect chili cheese dog. Rachel Mari can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .