Tips and Tricks for a Recession Proof Wardrobe

How does one stay fashionable and fabulous in the middle of a recession? It’s a mixture of reevaluating our wardrobes, shopping frugally and shopping locally. It’s time to put the effort into getting more creative with what we already own and trying new looks. Start layering, buying second hand clothing and hunting for sales. The word on the street (and the job market) is that the economy is getting better. Well, if the financial state of the country is looking up, then the trickledown effect must be taking a long while to trickle down to the rest of us. Work toward spending less money and getting more creative with your shopping habits. There are tons of discount websites if you’re into designer labels, that will alert you when something is about to go on sale. Try the following sites for discount designer items:
• www.giltgroup.com
• www.ruelala.com
• www.365hangers.com
Don’t forget about www.ebay.com, www.etsy.com and www.chicstar.com. It’s a great way to shop around and get ideas and inspiration about trying new styles and clothing. Each site is geared toward the original, creative customer that wants to purchase unique items. These sites are known for featuring established, new, emerging local designers.
If sample sales are more your style, then sign up for these daily sample sale alerts:
• www.thrillist.com
• www.dailycandy.com
• www.timeoutny.com
If shopping online is more than you can deal with, try shopping in your own neighborhood. There are plenty of discount and thrift stores for your frugal fashion pleasure. Most stores at this time need to get rid of all summer merchandise to make room for fall. Stroll past these stores and see what great bargains you can score:
• Peachfrog: 136 N. 10th Street (between Bedford & Berry)
• Beacon’s Closet: 88 N. 11th Street
• Buffalo Exchange: 504 Driggs Avenue
Discovering how to spend less is prime knowledge, but what about trading instead of spending? The latest fashion craze to hit the web and beyond are ‘clothing swaps’. These are groups of people that meet a few times a year and have clothing ‘swap’ parties. The results are beyond a true fashionitsa’s dreams. Bring gently used clothing and accessories to put into the pot. The leader will ring the bell and then it’s every fashionista for themselves. Take what you like, leave what you don’t and the only money you spend is for the entrance fee. A great deal for people with no flex room for wardrobe splurging. Try www.meetup.com and find a clothing swap near you.
For more bargaining tips, fashion education and style inspiration, log onto www.thedressrecycler.com. “Your bargain fashion superhero!”