Frugal Fashion: Spicing Up Your Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

I've seen many personal finance bloggers advise against having a credit card because people, tend to swipe their way into a very deep hole. Specifically through shopping. Sometimes it's for books, games, alcohol, but usually it's for fashion and beauty.

How can a penny-pincher be a frugal fashionista?

Discover Off-Price Department Stores

Have you ever been to TJ Maxx or Marshalls? If your first reaction was a grimace, have you been to one recently? These department stores are being remodelled all over America to offer current season, designer clothing at a lower price. I confess-- 95% of my wardrobe is from Marshalls including my shoes and handbags.

Reinvent with Accessories

Instead of buying a whole new outfit, why not spruce it up with new accessories? Take a look from day to night. Or add some conservative jewelry and a cardigan to make an outfit work appropriate. If you wear glasses, try getting some funky frames. Great stores to accessorize at include Forever21 or an independent seller on Etsy.

Shop Second Hand

This one is self explanatory but there are plenty of great finds at Goodwill or The Salvation Army. You can also check out stores such as Buffalo Exchange, which also excepts second hand clothes for cash. If you are in the LA area, check out It's A Wrap. This is like the Goodwill for film and television. All the dresses those sorority girl extras wore once on Greek? You can find them here.

Need proof there are great finds? I have definitely given away dresses I've worn once to Goodwill. Which brings me to the next point...

Become Sale Savvy
With websites like Retail Me Not, it's hard not to justify buying the whole store because it's at a discount.

Resist. I know it's very hard when you are in J Crew.

First of all, think about if you'll actually wear that shirt dress you are holding. If you try it on and you feel uncomfortable in it--don't buy it. Secondly, is it really a good sale? If the item is a low quality blouse that's only discounted five dollars, is it really worth your money? Probably not.

There are many blogs who can provide more sales tips in advice. One of my favorites is The Budget Fashionista, who also has a great section called Etsy Finds. Also loving a new find: The Poor Couture