When it comes to personal style, we could all use a change sometimes. Even if you’re not keeping up with trends, you might find you no longer love your closet staples and want something new.
Changing your style can do wonders for your self-esteem. A new look might be just what you need to make changes in other parts of your life too.
But mixing up your wardrobe can be costly and unsustainable. Replacing your whole closet with good-quality clothes costs a mountain of cash. On the other hand, cutting corners by using fast fashion can also lead to acquiring low-quality clothing and supporting unethical business practices.
So how do you spice up your style ethically without hurting your wallet? Here are a few tips to try.
1. Go thrifting
This is a tried-and-true method for affordability and sustainability. As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another’s treasure. So check your local thrift stores for cute clothes that are cheaper than newer alternatives. You never know what you might find!
Just watch out for people reselling clothes from fast fashion companies like Romwe or Shein. Some thrift stores have banned fast fashion products, but others might not be able to recognize that’s where the clothes came from. These clothes are often of a weaker quality and are made in unethical ways.
2. Swap clothes with friends
Do you have a friend who has a similar style and size? Try swapping clothes with them! You can both go through your closets and pick out clothes you don’t want anymore. Then check each other’s unwanted piles and see what treasures you might find.
This is also a great motivation to clean out your closet and donate or sell whatever clothing neither of you wants.
3. Check clearance sections
Most clothing stores have a clearance section. It’s true that some of these clearances still won’t give you a good deal (like a $100 shirt being reduced to $70). But sometimes, these clearance sections are where dreams are made.
This is especially true for more affordable brands. Certain clearance sections can offer clothing pieces for under $10. So take a trip to the mall and walk straight to the back of each store to find some deals.
4. Shop your closet
I can guarantee you have bought something cute, then completely forgotten about it. Or you can style an existing piece in a different way. Shopping your closet is also a great way to get rid of items you know you’ll never wear.
So, comb through your closet, look for clothes you like but never wear, and put them closer to the front of your closet. If you go another few months without wearing them after that, it’s probably time to donate or sell them.
Refreshing your style doesn’t have to be expensive. Just choose clothes that will last long and ones you feel amazing in. What are some of your tips for making a style change without breaking the bank? Let us know in the comments!
Photo by Dane Wetton on Unsplash
