Did the pandemic take its toll on your wardrobe? After a year of working at home, many are looking to upgrade their wardrobes. But how can we do it on a budget? Check out these 10 quick & easy ways to upgrade your wardrobe while remaining eco-friendly….and on a budget!
1. Look for Timeless, Quality Pieces
If you’ve read my blog before you know that I a big fan of things like classic cashmere sweaters and silk blouses. I typically go for a classic cut that I know will stand the test of time. Like with this black silk blouse that I thrifted for $2. And because it is secondhand its a great way to upgrade your wardrobe while being eco-friendly.
2. Consider Renting
Now this is not something that I have tried yet but renting your wardrobe is a great way to get pieces you might not otherwise be able to afford. It’s eco friendly and it also gives you a chance to add new pieces that you can mix in with your existing wardrobe.
3. Add a Structured Blazer
In addition to silk blouses and cashmere sweaters, I am also a big sucker for a structured blazer. I have A LOT of them. They can be dressed up or down, layered in many ways, and can be worn almost year-round. This is one of my favorite methods to upgrade your wardrobe.
4. Learn to Layer
Layering pieces in unexpected ways is a great way to upgrade your look. For example, throwing a long sleeve t-shirt under a dress is an unexpected layering combination that will make you look really put together.
5. Care for Your Clothes
Since I started reselling a couple of years ago I’ve learned a few tricks about how to repair and revive damaged or worn clothing. Honestly, this is one of the most eco-friendly things you can do to upgrade your wardrobe. Here a few things that you can do to give your favorite items new life.
- Invest in a sweater shaver – This thing is a lifesaver. I can’t tell you how many cashmere sweaters I’ve saved with this thing.
- Get a good stain remover – A woman at my church told me about this stain remover. It’s almost like magic. It gets out almost everything.
- Wash your clothes less – This one won’t’ cost a thing and will actually save you money. The only items you really need to wash after one wear are anything that directly touches your feet, crotch, or armpits. Sorry to be gross but it’s true. Things like jeans and skirts can usually be worn many times before needing a wash. This will help your favorite items last longer AND look NEWER LONGER.
6. Black Flats
I am a firm believer that every woman should have a pair of nice black flats. Preferably pointy toed if you can wear such a thing. Trust me, as someone with foot issues who can’t wear heels anymore, I understand if a pointy shoe isn’t for you. But invest in a cute classic pair of black flats and you’ll be able to wear them with soooo much and look super put together.
7. Follow the “Rule of 3”
Does your outfit feel boring? Add a 3rd item. It could be a jacket, scarf, statement necklace or even a bold colored shoe. Adding this third piece makes it look like you took extra care to put yourself together….because…well…you did!
8. Neutral/Nude Flats or Sandals
Because I have foot problems I have had to get creative with my footwear choices. I am so grateful that sneakers are now acceptable footwear for almost everything. But, on those occasions when I need something a little nicer, I tend to wear either nude pointy toe flats or my nude open-toe sandals. Because they are nude they really go with anything.
9. Upgrade Your Outerwear
Have you ever admired a really nice looking winter coat that you saw someone wearing out on the street? I had this experience when I visited London. Everywhere I turned people had fabulous stylish outerwear! You see, I live in Southern California where outerwear is not something we need a whole lot of. After that experience, I started to pay a bit more attention to my outerwear choices. I sold my old outerwear that I wasn’t crazy about and invested in a couple of new pieces that I purchased secondhand.
10. For Every New Item You Add, Purge 1-2
BIG CAVEAT HERE – You have to do this responsibly. Don’t just throw your old stuff in the trash. That’s a big no-no. Buy by doing this you’ll automatically be upgrading your wardrobe on a regular basis. After a while, your closet will be filled mostly with things that you love to wear! Also, before donating, consider swapping or selling. There are sites like Swap Society and Poshmark that make this really easy. If this isn’t for you, go ahead and donate to a reputable charity. If you’re looking for some methods of closet purging, check out my blog post about The Best Time To Clean Out Your Closet.
For more detailed tips on styling and creating a sustainable wardrobe on a budget, check out these resources: