We’d all love a wardrobe heaving with luxury garments, designer accessories and the latest runway stylings, but opulent taste doesn’t always match a modest budget. Few have the means of forking out on high-end pieces on a regular basis.
However, there are ways of attaining a high fashion look for a high street price. Whether you’re conscious of brand names or simply enjoy experimenting with aesthetics, here are some tips on how you can look expensive without splashing the cash.
Outlet Stores
High fashion outlet stores can be found all over the UK, offering end-of-line pieces for bargain prices. Outlet centres such as Cheshire Oaks stock designer brands at a discount of up to 60%. Perusing these outlets provides a fantastic opportunity for a day out with the girls as you search the rails for a luxury gem.
Some designers sell their pieces to sample sale websites. These items have often been used on the runway or for editorial photoshoots, meaning they are not always in mint condition. Nevertheless, if you don’t mind owning a garment with a little bit of history, you can enjoy up to a 90% discount.
Thrifting
If you prefer to reject the latest runway offerings in favour of timeless, retro fashion, thrifting is your best friend and an excellent way to discover unique treasures. Vintage markets, charity shops and even car boot sales are gold mines of preloved pieces, particularly if you enjoy a good rummage.
Thrifted clothes don’t always come with a long list of previous owners - some high street shops donate surplus stock to charity shops. Purchasing from charities has the added benefit of contributing to a good cause.
Online resources such as Depop and Vinted are popular as ever. With Ebay’s auction system, it’s entirely possible for you to grab something special for next to nothing. Be sure to investigate the seller’s feedback page, so you know everything is legitimate.
Shop Sustainably
Sustainable shopping means being mindful of the pieces you buy by considering the materials and durability. The fast fashion industry is having a detrimental impact on the environment by releasing 500 000 tons of microfibres into the ocean yearly and accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions.
By consuming fashion in a sustainable manner, you are being kind to the planet as well as your pocket. Choose pieces made from natural, robust fabrics such as cotton, cashmere and bamboo fibre; garments that you genuinely like and will repeatedly wear - this way, you get more for your money and reduce your carbon footprint.
Scour The Sales
It’s always a wise idea to head straight for the clearance rack. With any luck, the expensive piece you’ve been umming and ahhing about for the past few weeks will be waiting for you there at a fraction of the price. Luxurious and desirable materials that make you feel magnificent can be well within your budget - you may find an elegant silk slip dress or feather-soft cashmere cardigan in the sale.
Small Businesses
Suppose you’re not all that passionate about big names and high-end brands, but you nevertheless enjoy expressing yourself through fashion. Perhaps you shy away from the high street stores in favour of something a little more quirky. Browsing small clothing businesses - local or online - can be a way to discover high-quality, unique pieces.
Sourcing your clothing from a small business means you’re likely to find handmade, sustainable and ethically sourced pieces. You may be shelling out slightly more than you would in a high street chain, but you get what you pay for with high-quality, lovingly made garments whilst boosting the local economy. By commissioning something personal, you have an item that fits like a glove, which is the key to looking effortlessly chic.
Treat Yourself
Ultimately, if fashion is your passion, you need to know when to save and when to splurge. You may not be able to afford to spend large amounts flippantly, but the occasional treat is good for the soul. An exciting new item of clothing or accessory is a major mood-booster. By choosing carefully and conscientiously, you can build up your collection over time without breaking the bank.