AKOstyle Featured in Clutch Magazine Fashion Blog

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HOW TO BE FLY WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANKHow many times have you been caught admiring your next potential purchase; imagining how stunning you ll look wearing it, only to have your fashion daydream crushed by a price tag displaying 3 to 4 digits that rival your rent? Let s face it, being fabulous and broke, or economically challenged is no easy feat. Especially in a world where materialism is rampant and the mentality of buy now, pay later reigns supreme. For those of us whose checking account balance falls short of being able to support our wildest fashion fantasies, there is hope. With a little common sense and shopping savvy you can look great without having to spend a fortune. Take Inventory Before you venture off on your next shopping trip take stock of what s already in the closet. This way you can evaluate what s missing in your wardrobe, get rid of clothing that is no longer working to make room for new ones, and avoid buying things in duplicate. Honestly, do you really need 15 black t-shirts? Your goal is to figure out what is needed in order to have a more focused shopping experience (thus avoiding impulse purchases) and to discover the gems you already have. Shop Smart Unless you re headed for the clearance rack, the mall might not be the best place to find a deal. Sample or warehouse sales are ideal places to pick up designer goods for fractions of the original price. Outlet malls, consignment and vintage shops in larger cities tend to have chic finds at great prices. If you don t have access to these options or if you prefer mall shopping, it might pay off to make friends with the sales staff at your favorite spots. They can alert you to sales and new merchandise shipments. Buying off-season items while their prices are drastically reduced is another way to save yourself a nice chunk of change. Get the look for less Achieving great style on a budget is easier than ever before thanks to designers producing diffusion (read cheaper) lines and collections with mass merchants including Target and Payless. Great interpretations of the latest trends can often be found at H&M, TJMaxx, Forever 21, and Old Navy to name a few. Don t forget about the internet also known as the frugal fashionistas dream! This is especially true if you re unable to take advantage of the alternative shopping options mentioned in the previous point. Try www.anyknockoff.com, www.fashionflairs.com, www.the15dollarstore.com, www.girlprops.com, www.ebay.com, and www.endless.com for great deals and fab finds. Save vs. Splurge Knowing when to invest in a purchase that might cost a little more and when to save money by hunting for a bargain is an essential part of getting more bang for your buck. Invest in anything you absolutely love - clothing that has great fit, classic items like suits and pencil skirts that never go out of style, and accessories that add polish and a touch of distinction to any outfit. Save on trendy items that you ll care less about next year and basics like t-shirts that you can purchase anywhere. Also consider care and maintenance, i.e. dry cleaning, when deciding whether your next purchase is a steal . If you skimp on accessories, then consider spending a bit more money on clothing or visa versa. It s ideal to have a balance of both, so that your look doesn t scream cheap. Click here to view the article online!

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