You can enjoy dressing up for spring and summer without necessarily breaking the bank or bankrupting yourself. Before hitting the shops, why not get a little creative by taking a look inside your cupboard and using what you already have instead of heading for the mall, armed with your credit card?
If your wardrobe needs a bit of a pick-me-up you can easily pick up quality items at a second hand stores or charity shops. They don’t just offer hand-me-down clothes, but also gently used and timeless pieces like a vintage dresses and hats.
According to Charl Nel, Strategic Communications at Capitec Bank, financial institutions have been urging consumers to save, save and save! And although it makes sense, many fashionistas often choose to ignore this advice because they “just have to buy the latest winter boots,” postpone starting to save until the next season or until the next pay increase.
The ‘anti-bling’ pop culture that encourages trendsetters to re-use, instead of buying new, is fast catching on among savvy young South Africans. “Clothes swapping parties, up cycling t-shirts or sneakers and fixing things are fun ways to save money, and keep you looking trendy”, says Nel.
Chic “swop parties” are becoming increasingly popular among fashion-conscious women who also want to be financially conscious.
“Get a trusted friend to help you re-work some looks from the clothes you are keeping. Often a fresh eye and different combinations creates a whole new look. Gather all your girlfriends who did the same process to a chic “swop party”. All agree to take 10 or more items and see what you can use to add to your wardrobe”, says clutter expert Kate Emmerson.
Also use this time to clear out your wardrobe so that you can find the clothes you actually wear. Emmerson recommends you grab five of your funkiest, most fashionable friend to keep you on track; take everything out of your wardrobe, clean the space and ask the following questions:
• Do I love it?
• Does it add value?
• Do I use it?
• Have I worn it in the last six months?
• Can I re-fashion it to update it; hem, sleeves, darts etc.
If you cannot say “yes” to any of these questions then put it on the charity pile.
So, get started on your brand new wardrobe with these top tips from Indianna Harris, founder of second hand boutique NiceFinds, and an avid fashion up-cyclist.
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