Fashion Philosophy - Part II
Live the tips, here's how:
1. Never pay retail - except on undies and socks ;)
There is no reason to ever pay retail for most clothing items including shoes. Of course, if you want to splurge now and then, that's fine; however, don't feel you must pay full price (or even discount) on items that you can buy for even less! 2. Be selective and polite
For women, the ultimate selective shopper has to be Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Every item she wore was chosen with the utmost care and this is how everyone needs to shop (even on a budget.) For men, I think the ulimate role model is Javier Bardem where even casual is effortless but thoughtful. For queen bee status, don't miss RuPaul or Andre because she or he teaches people everywhere how to have great style but these looks may be a bit harder to achieve on a budget. To save the drama, add one twist unique to you (maybe it's a shoe or accessory) but don't overdo it because this actually lessens the effect in most social settings. Some day Lady Gaga may be the fashion norm but we're not there, yet, sweets! Instead, find one item in your wardrobe that compliments the classic. For inspiration, everyone must watch What Not to Wear! Yes, this show is mostly about women but the lessons they share apply to all! Who is your fashion role model? There must be someone whose style you'd like to emulate. Doesn't mean you're going to *be* this person. It just means you like how she looks in clothes (even if she isn't your size.) I promise it does not matter. By selective, I mean shop as your role model! This means classic clothes, suits, and outfits from the 40s, 50s and early 60s. Let's face it, style never deviates too far from these eras but finds new twists on the classic in Vogue July 2012 with Emma Stone Also, Grace Kelly would never have settled for out-of-date, torn, worn, or otherwise lousy items that don't fit. You need to shop for your own body and the way it looks now (not past or future you.) Oh, and don't worry if you don't or will never look like Grace (me neither.) It's OK.
By polite, I mean treat the people and merchandise with respect. Don't think because it's used that it's less than the best because humans won't know the difference or care that you paid $15 for the same dress that would be $80 new. Enjoy the experience and treasure your finds! 3. Search everywhere - online or in person This may better *suit* you if you hate shopping or find it difficult to stand around. Almost all areas have estate or garage sales (if you have the time and patience) and most have thrift, resale, or consignment shops. If yours does not, please consider Ebay or RustyZipper for vintage items. Later, I'll have a separate post on how to shop at these locations but want to start by encouraging you to look here first; and, trust me, it's worth the money you'll save! 4. Ask questions - You never know when a friend, coworker, or stranger may know about some fabulous finds! Whether at the store or admiring an outfit, there is knowledge!
1. Never pay retail - except on undies and socks ;)
There is no reason to ever pay retail for most clothing items including shoes. Of course, if you want to splurge now and then, that's fine; however, don't feel you must pay full price (or even discount) on items that you can buy for even less! 2. Be selective and polite
For women, the ultimate selective shopper has to be Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Every item she wore was chosen with the utmost care and this is how everyone needs to shop (even on a budget.) For men, I think the ulimate role model is Javier Bardem where even casual is effortless but thoughtful. For queen bee status, don't miss RuPaul or Andre because she or he teaches people everywhere how to have great style but these looks may be a bit harder to achieve on a budget. To save the drama, add one twist unique to you (maybe it's a shoe or accessory) but don't overdo it because this actually lessens the effect in most social settings. Some day Lady Gaga may be the fashion norm but we're not there, yet, sweets! Instead, find one item in your wardrobe that compliments the classic. For inspiration, everyone must watch What Not to Wear! Yes, this show is mostly about women but the lessons they share apply to all! Who is your fashion role model? There must be someone whose style you'd like to emulate. Doesn't mean you're going to *be* this person. It just means you like how she looks in clothes (even if she isn't your size.) I promise it does not matter. By selective, I mean shop as your role model! This means classic clothes, suits, and outfits from the 40s, 50s and early 60s. Let's face it, style never deviates too far from these eras but finds new twists on the classic in Vogue July 2012 with Emma Stone Also, Grace Kelly would never have settled for out-of-date, torn, worn, or otherwise lousy items that don't fit. You need to shop for your own body and the way it looks now (not past or future you.) Oh, and don't worry if you don't or will never look like Grace (me neither.) It's OK.
By polite, I mean treat the people and merchandise with respect. Don't think because it's used that it's less than the best because humans won't know the difference or care that you paid $15 for the same dress that would be $80 new. Enjoy the experience and treasure your finds! 3. Search everywhere - online or in person This may better *suit* you if you hate shopping or find it difficult to stand around. Almost all areas have estate or garage sales (if you have the time and patience) and most have thrift, resale, or consignment shops. If yours does not, please consider Ebay or RustyZipper for vintage items. Later, I'll have a separate post on how to shop at these locations but want to start by encouraging you to look here first; and, trust me, it's worth the money you'll save! 4. Ask questions - You never know when a friend, coworker, or stranger may know about some fabulous finds! Whether at the store or admiring an outfit, there is knowledge!
