Make the Most of Your Wardrobe

Article written by: Angela L. Serrette
Posted on: October 12, 2009

Layoffs, inflation, high tuition costs, utility bills, sky rocketing insurance rates etc.. With all these issues to concern yourself, how in the world can you even think about your wardrobe?

I’m here to tell you no matter what state the economy is in, you still need to look great and feel good. With the following tips, you don’t have to look like the economy is taking a bite out of your wallet! Unemployed professionals in the job market, take note.

We’ve all been hit hard by the recession. We all feel the extra “pinch” in our wallets but we still need to be part of the productive work force and social network and look exciting. There is no need to look depressed. How can we do this on a not so great salary, in a not so great economy? Here’s how we can beat the economic blues and look great everyday by starting with the basics:

Outlets, Outlets, Outlets Galore
Look great for less. Look for your favorite designer outlets such as Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Saks Annex, Fresh Fly Focused, DKNY, Coach, Coogi etc. Look for your favorite online shops and promotional sales from Rocawear, Dereon, True Religion, Sean John, Bloomingdales, Macy’s etc.

Don’t be dissuaded by the word outlet. Outlets will have some of your favorite looks at bargain prices. The idea is to look great for less whether you’re on the job or job hunting. Tip: sign up with your favorite outlet shops to receive invitations to promotional sales and receive discounts. Many times unadvertised specials are only for loyal customers on a retailers mailing list or e-list. Sign up and save.

Sweaters, Sweaters Everywhere
A classic sweater or sweater set will add versatility to your wardrobe. Select styles and colors that will work separately or under suit jackets or with skirts and pearls or chic jeans. If possible purchase sweaters with a hint of lambswool or cashmere for a touch of elegance on a budget.

The Basic Black Skirt and Dress
An essential, need we say more?

Sample Sales
Sample sales are the place to be. 7th Ave Garment District in New York is a haven for sample sales and flyers are given out on the streets almost daily. Check out online e-commerce sites such as members only Gilt.com : they have private sales on luxury brands that are so popular, they often sell out within minutes.

Tip: if you have friends or family working for apparel manufacturers, ask them if the company offers a Friends and Family Sales or employee-only sample sales. Donna Karan offers such an event where employees and a guest may attend the company’s sample sales.

Comparative Price Research: Catalogue Sales vs. Online Sales
Ever look through your favorite catalogue and see great sales. Tip: use the promotional code on the catalogue, but compare the prices between the catalogue and their online shop to make sure you’re getting the best bargain. In some cases you will see the same item with two different prices from the manufacturer. Pick the cheaper price and get additional discounts with the promotional code, if possible.

The Eternal Overcoat/ Raincoat
Let’s face it, a good overcoat or raincoat will make you look great any time. However if it has a detachable liner you can get longer wear for both fall and spring. A basic black, navy or khaki color will go well with any outfit and look professional and last a few seasons.

Tip:I have a Bill Blass raincoat that I wear in spring and fall for several years because it has a zip out liner which adds to the product life cycle.

Pump Up Those Heels
Nothing says sloppiness like stiletto heels that click and scrape the tile floors of an office or pavement due to lack of repair. Make sure your shoes are repaired and in good condition. If you’re a shoe fiend like me, be reasonable and select the basic pumps you wear on interviews and make sure these get priority for repair. I usually request rubber tips on the soles and on the heels to improve longevity between shoe repair stops.

Hand Bag Chic
Being stylish is great. Being practical is better when you’re on a budget. If you’re short on cash, select a handbag that will work well for professional attire from 9-5 and work well for business dinners. Black and taupe colors are a must and preferably without all the bells, chains and glitter. In some cases less is more. Where size is concerned of course purchase a bag size that suits your needs, but try not to look like you are packed for a vacation to Rome.

Dry Cleaners: Sales
Have you ever wondered what your dry cleaner does with all those left over clothes that were cleaned but never claimed? The next time you visit your dry cleaners inquire if they sell items left over 60 days. You may be pleasantly surprised.

 

 

The Eternal White Blouse

Basic white blouses are always in style and work with everything in your closet. Buy a few, some plain, some with more styling details. You can’t go wrong. When you’re indecisive on what to wear, a white blouse is always a quick classic remedy.

Product Life Cycle
When shopping think of how long you can use the item. How many seasons can I wear this item? Try buying colors and fabric weights that will work for more than one season and coordinate with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Tip: Shop during Resort/ Holiday season for items that should last from January to spring and early summer.
Shop early in the spring for the previous fall season Sales
Catch Early Bird Specials in the summer for the new fall items

Play with Skirt Lengths
If you purchase a skirt and it’s too long shorten it but leave enough hem in case longer length trends are in the next season. Think: 2 skirts in 1 when shopping.

Accessorize and Mesmerize
Don’t throw away that blazer- add a new jeweled pin to the label. Keep the scarf, wrap it around your waist over black pants for an instant chic matador look. Buy a set of jewelry in gold, silver and black and grey- with these basic colors you can jazz up your appearance continually- and keep the skinny belt to wear on a suit jacket.  

 

 

Many quality items can be found in secondhand shops that offer designer items at bargain prices. Everything from designer shoes to Chanel suits and household items can be found in these shops. With the current economic state these shops have become popular and the inventory turnover is much higher recently.

The economy is tough right now, but YOU are tougher and smarter.