Fast fashion: a guide to shopping wisely when you're on a budget
I know how high quality clothes can be expensive nowadays.
Oftentimes it looks like that we don’t have so many options in a mid-price range, unless we look for sales or promotions, or we can't find stylish options at low-cost stores.
That’s why so many women end up opting for fast fashion.
I get you and, believe me, I have clients on a really tight budget! But I honestly think that we can spot what I call "good finds" at fast fashion or inexpensive stores.
So my advice is to always take some time to check all the details.
Here are some tips for you to use when you go shopping at fast fashion shops:
ATTENTION TO FABRIC
Natural fibers are always better. I am talking about cotton and linen in the Spring/Summer, or wool in the Fall/Winter. You will probably find a wool blend with a percentage of merino, cashmere, etc. that makes it softer and warmer. I'm not saying that fabrics like polyester are terrible, but depending on the quality, they can look too shiny and cheap.
TAILOR MADE?
Fitting is very important. Even if it doesn't cost much, consider taking the piece to the tailor to make it fit you well. It's a game changer!
CHECK THE SEAMS
On good clothes the seams are almost invisible, unless they are part of the style. They need to be well made. Sometimes chain stores overlook this detail and the seams might be undone or come off easily.
ANALYZE THE BUTTONS
One more thing to pay attention: buttons! Are they too shiny or made of plastic? No need to worry. The best part is that you can always replace them. I believe you can really upgrade some clothes by just changing their buttons.
BEAUTY IS ON THE INSIDE, TOO!
If you're buying a blazer or a coat, make sure to always check the lining. Is it nicely sewn? Remember that once you take them off, people can actually see their interior. When linings are poorly sewn, it's more likely that they could tear up. This usually happens because these economical brands tend to save on fabric.
A FRIENDLY REMINDER: SAY NO TO PRINTS
Solid colors are easier than prints. Why? Well, that's because prints should match up where they meet at the seams. When this doesn’t happen, it won't look nice. Sadly, this is quite common at fast fashion collections.
BEYOND BLACK
Some people say that uncostly clothes are always better in black. Yes, it's true that black can hide some problems. However, I feel that if you choose a color that is good to your complexion, it will look like it was better made. My suggestion is to avoid colors that are too bright for you.
ALL ABOUT CARE
Even though fast fashion clothes might be cheap, you should also take care of them like any other items you have in your wardrobe. The more they last, the better it is for you and our planet.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST: A STYLING HACK!
If possible, go for the old "high and low" outfit. For example, wear a low-priced dress with a great leather jacket. It elevates your look and makes it much more interesting.
By the way, don’t think that all my clients wear luxurious clothes. This isn't true. They have real and different budgets, and I am happy to be able to help them all.
Still have any other misconceptions about hiring a personal stylist? Read this post here.
If you would like to learn more about how I work, send me an email at hello@marciacrivorot.com so we can have a nice chat!
Disclosure: Keep in mind that I link products and companies based on their quality, my personal opinion, my experience and professional expertise. Some of the links in my posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a small commission. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.