Someone should do a post on dressing in a way that looks ‘expensive’ but not breaking the bank
Wear black with gold/cream/silver detailing. Buy items that fit you well at the WIDEST POINT OF YOUR BODY and get them tailored to fit the rest. Stick to simple, clean lines and use accessories (detailing on a black/white purse for understated, a colorful purse for a bigger statement, , brightly coloured shoes if you go for fun shoes at all, funky jewellery) to add individuality and personality. Stick to neutral makeup in nude tones (+ false eyelashes), except for red/pink/maroon lipstick. Paint nails red for universal appeal, white or cream/beige for a bright neutral, black/grey/maroon for darker neutral. Keep them long enough that you can audibly tap them on objects, but not long enough that they interfere with mobility. Don’t touch your own cuticles unless you’re a wizard.
Don’t try go for red lips, red nails and red heels IMHO. Even if you rock Loubs, it just looks so extra- in a bad way. Never coordinate your purse, nails and your shoes around anyone in fashion- it looks good to regular folk but it comes across as slightly tacky, slightly lazy, and very unimaginative to anyone in fashion.
I’m still trying to figure out hair but…That basically covers it, I think.
You should know your skin’s undertone & what jewellery works for you. For example, I have a very golden undertone & silver looks really horrible on me.
Where to shop:
Zara: I find Zara has a knack for tailoring their clothes to fit your size very well. They’re very clean, & often minimalist in nature. Shoes are affordable & amazing, especially if you have wide feet. If you still can’t afford things here full price wait for their end of season sales.
ASOS: they are a one stop shop & you can easily compare prices between brands. The ASOS brand itself is pretty great. If you’re a student, make sure you sign up so you can have a 24/7/365 10% discount on purchases. Their sales are phenomenal & they have a great customer service & shipping policy.
H&M: I used to hate them but they’re upping their game. They’re very good for basics such as camis and long sleeve shirts.
Lord & Taylor: They have a good selection of quality fashion jewellery that looks very decent. I swear by their earrings.
Thrift stores: This is obvi hit or miss & takes a bit more time & a bit more knowledge about the kind of fabric youre looking for etc but one of my most complimented shift dresses was bought at Goodwill for $4 & I also have a lovely silk blouse I got for $3.
Saks Off Fifth: This is Saks Fifth Avenue’s version of Nordstrom Rack. If you’re looking to invest in quality designer pieces but want them at a bargain, this is a reliable source.
Poshmark: This is a site where people buy things from each other’s closets. I sell & buy from there. There was a beautiful asymmetric skirt that got sold out at H&M last year that I ended up finding here in my size. Basically thrifting online & everything is cheap.
The RealReal: Online consignment store for designer goods. If you want to splurge on a designer bag or shoes without paying full price, this is a great place to get pre-loved items.
How to take care of your closet:
It doesn’t mean anything to buy quality pieces if you don’t take care of them. Looking after the things you own will keep your closet looking expensive.
Find a cobbler: I swear by my cobbler. A good cobbler will take your raggedy ass worn out shoes & make them presentable again. I have a habit of wearing my shoes down to the ground but my cobbler fixes them right back up for cheap. Your cobbler will also more likely than not know how to take care of leather goods such as bags.
Find a tailor: This is more expensive than a cobbler but 100% worth it. My tailor has taken some pieces of mine & turned them into gold.
If it says dry clean, dry clean. Don’t ruin your clothes by cheaping out. You’ll thank yourself later.
New York
Amsterdan
Amsterdan
Cannes
Venice
Geneva
