LOOKING FABULOUS ON A LOW BUDGET

let’s face it not everyone can afford a pair of Christian louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, hermes, CoCo Channel, Jimmy Choos, and so many amazing designers… but they want to look a million bucks. is that possible? absolutely yes! Many people fall into different categories and situations based on their finances but they still want to look stylish. they need to pay their rent, tuition, car payments, insurance, food, saving for a new venture and other necessities but that should not be a show stopper or make you frustrated. i will provide some recommendations on how you can get away with it. the goal is working with what you have in your wardrobe and then just finetuning it with just a few other things while working with a low budget.

IS IT TRENDY?

Focusing on what’s in style should not be your priority because that is ever evolving. One thing that has worked for me is using my own personal style that speaks me, knowing my body type, mixing up a few trendy items with some timeless pieces to accomplish my look. Regardless of what approach you choose to use, make sure you wear what is flattering to your body type. If you are unsure of what your body type is, refer to my article on “What’s your body type?”

ACCESSORIES ARE A BIG DEAL

If you wear a pair of jeans, basic top and simply accessorize, you will be amazed about how it takes the look to a different level. For a more laid back look you can wear flats or sandals depending on where you are going, but to give it a different look wearing a pair of heels upgrades the look. You can start with statement jewelry pieces that are inexpensive. As you have more room to splurge you can get more jewelry. The great thing about cosmetic jewelry is you can get various ones at different prices. Let’s not forget scarves, they are great accessory pieces too.

BASIC WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

Depending on where you are in your life, these essential basic wardrobe pieces may differ slightly. A college student, a new graduate joining the workforce, a new mom going back to the corporate environment need for essential will all be different. Nevertheless, most of this should apply to most categories; a pair of dark denim jeans, t-shirt, blazer, flats, sandals, nude and black basic pump heels, black pants, pencil skirt, a cardigan with a natural shade goes with anything, black dress, white dress shirt, printed blouse and a pantsuit. These are simply recommendations and you can build them as your budget permits. The way your clothes fit also adds to the way you look. For instance if a gentleman wears a well-tailored suit not “tight” he looks smart compared to a gentleman that walks in with a baggy suit. Wearing tight clothes doesn’t make you look classy, set aside some money to have your clothes adjusted because it makes a world of difference when they fit properly, whether they are inexpensive or designer clothes. Technology has improved that you no longer need to store up piles of clothes in your closet if you are not using them, consider selling, trading or sampling donating them; several sites or places offer these types of services.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT BUT YOUR BEAUTY REGIME IS KEY?

Your beauty regime has a lot to do with your looks too. Your hair and skin care are extremely important. Look for ways to perfect your hair and beauty regime. You are the canvas and your accessories, clothes, shoes and bags help to relay the message. What type of message are you speaking when you dress up? Adopt an effortless and well groomed approach to achieve that glamorous chic look even if you are working on a budget. One great tip that works for everyone is to drink lots of water and exfoliate regularly. Show your skin some love; exfoliating can improve the results of your skin care routine and help rejuvenate your skin. Whether you have dry, normal, oily or sensitive skin, exfoliation can bring new life to your complexion. Beauty Regimen also extends to personal hygiene and

The way you look and carry yourself speaks volumes as well. just because you are working with a tight budget doesn’t mean you have to look halfdressed or trashy. There is something to be said about a woman that speaks class and through the way she looks, although social media these days seem to highlight otherwise. Since the focus is on looking good on a budget I won’t focus too much on that but know that your self-image is just as important as your basic wardrobe essential. Take pride in the way you look because it speaks volumes and always remember your style and glam is what makes you exceptional.

If you have any feedback, got questions on this article or need other fashion tips, you can ask me on Instagram at Aramides-Closet. I would love to hear from you.