Far too often do people feel like they must go purchase a completely new outfit for different occasions. Although this can be fun and often times used an excuse to go shopping, it can get very expensive. There are a few simple steps that you can try out in order to avoid the unnecessary spending.
Ask what your friends, or whoever you’re going out with, are wearing. Most of the time that I have gone out to buy a new outfit is because I wasn’t sure what other people would be wearing.
I was afraid that my outfits would stand out too much from the group or for the occasion. In reality, half the time I would have been perfectly fine! If you are embarrassed to be asking, don’t be! More than most of the time they are probably going through the exact same situation as you.
Another tip is to borrow clothes from a friend! This is something that people are commonly afraid and embarrassed to do as well but it is the most efficient way to save money! If your piers are willing to loan you something, there is no harm in putting it to use!
In the image to the right, I am borrowing my friends dress that she used for prom. I needed a gown for the Miss Austin Texas Pageant and didn’t have one! Borrowing from a friend saved me hundreds of dollars. Pageant and prom gowns can be very expensive if brand new. Even used or discounted dresses can still put a dent in that credit card.
My third tip would be to go window shopping! Getting inspiration from stores and trying different things on can spark ideas for things you may have. It will be tempting to simply go ahead and purchase what you are trying on, and maybe you could buy one or two of the pieces that you tried on, but do your best to avoid it if you can!
In the image to the left I wanted to see if I could pair a dress with my Reebok white sneakers and tall white socks. The blue dress and grey cardigan from Aerie was exactly what I was looking for. I was able to use this inspiration to find similar dresses in my closet.
AshKies Designs 