Are you craving some summer style but dreading sticking to your strict budget?
As the weather heats up, it can be tempting to splurge on the latest trends. This season, step out in style for less with our guide to summer shopping on ashoestring.
Smart purchases only
The golden rule is to always consider every purchase before you make it. Ask yourself whether you really need this item. If the answer is yes, the next question should always be: can I wear this item in more than one way?
If you’re on a budget, purchases need to be restricted to items that are flexibleenough to wear on a number of occasions. You need to make sure you get the mostvalue out of every pound you spend. That might mean investing in good quality basics that can easily be dressed up with affordably priced accessories.
Another great way to ensure maximum value from your purchases is to look for items thatcan be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. A great example of this is wedge sandals. This classic staple of fashion can be paired with a bikini andheadscarf for a smart summer beach look, while higher wedges are perfect with amaxi dress for a BBQ or drinks with friends. Classic items like wedge sandals are great investment buys that will provide excellent value for money.
Keep an eye on the sales
Sales are the Holy Grail for savvy budget shoppers, so be sure to keep an eye out atthe turn of every season. You might be craving that latest bikini style, but come next winter you’ll be glad you invested in a fabulous coat at a quarter ofthe usual price.
Further discounted sale items are always found in second hand or thrift stores. You can pick up some vintage or retro items at a fraction of their original price.
Look online
Online shopping really is the best way to monitor what trends you like and to compare the prices of similar items at a variety of different stores.
You might love a particular brand or company, or be desperate to locate a particular celebrity’s jeans, but if a similar style is offered elsewhere at a discounted rate, it definitely pays to make the saving.
***Guest post