Saturday, September 17, 2011

Fall 2011 Trend-setters: Getting Started Guide

Okay, let's face it: Times are tough, and many of us don't have the extra cash to drop on high-fashion, designer labels, but that shouldn't stop you from looking fabulous this season. Being on a budget myself, I'm always on the lookout for the best deal. Because honestly, with all of the bills we're expected to pay? Why splurge on something that you might wear once or twice this season, when you could be buying trendy clothes at bargain prices?

Before you go on your next shopping spree, do a little online research. Visit your favorite clothing, shoe, makeup and accessory sites. It will seriously give you some great inspiration, which you can tailor to your own personal sense of style.

Comparison Shop. I can't stress this enough!

I'm what you'd call, " a comparison shopper," I look through fashion magazines, fashion designers' websites, and at celebrity trend-setters before I hit the mall, department store or online clothing store. Start on the web; online clearance stores are my favorite places visit after I've scoped out the season's hottest trends. I go through these sections, looking for trends like "Sheer Lace tops," I look through blouses, dresses, etc., and see if anything resembles what's in vogue this season. It's the best place to find less expensive alternatives to thousand-dollar price-tags (Check Bluefly.com regularly; they're constantly adding to their "New Arrivals" section).

Also, I recommend hitting up department stores' clearance racks (like Macy*s and Bloomingdales). Other great places to visit after you've gotten your trend-setter's checklist down are: H&M, Charlotte Russe, Marshalls, and my personal favorite, Filene's Basement. (Later on, I'll share some incredible thrift store finds).

So whether you've got a ton to invest on a new wardrobe or you're on a tight budget, there's something for everyone. Remember to do your research. Be a smart shopper, but more importantly, remember to have fun.

Why? Because think of how many times that have you bought a pair of shoes, a bag, a dress or a blouse, only to see it marked down somewhere else. It makes me so mad to think I paid full-price, when another store had the same exact coat marked down 60%! And, while bargain hunting takes a little time, and requires some patience; the savings are totally worth it! Think of how many more belts, bags, earrings and manicures and pedicures you'll be able to afford!  My advice: be smart, and do your research. Because honestly, who wouldn't want to look fashionable, and fabulous every season?

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