The Wardrobe.

How to look fashionable without putting your wallet at risk!

By Amana Iflal.

With everything that’s going on around us, clothes are the last things on our minds. Clothes are getting more and more expensive with the rising inflation and we need to find alternative methods of looking chic and well put together at all times. I’ve compiled a list of ways one can still be on trend while also minimizing the risk of overspending at clothing stores.

P.S.- these tips are from personal experience! 🙂

Thrifting 

Second hand thrifted clothes are just as good as new items. Don’t be afraid to take a look around your community for hidden gems that could make great additions to your wardrobe without breaking the bank! Remember: quality over quantity is key when it comes to getting dressed in the morning since looking stylish can cost very little money if you know where and how to shop. There are numerous thrift shops – online and otherwise, around Sri Lanka that offer a massive selection of clothes to wear. Who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece worth wearing! There is no harm in trying out something new as long as it reflects your sense of style regardless of what others may think since this could help us stay on trend even if our budget is limited. Remember that one man’s trash is another man’s gold. 

Invest In Quality Pieces
Look for pieces of clothing that are durable for long periods of time and items that will withstand the weather. While this may cost a little more money up-front, it will save you from having to replace items frequently due to poor craftsmanship and low-quality materials. Investing in fewer but high-quality pieces also allows for better accessorizing opportunities! You can still find quality pieces on a budget if you do some digging. In addition to investing in higher-quality items from the start, you’ll also want to invest your time into learning how clothes should fit on your body type. If you know what you’re looking for, you’ll spend less time looking for things that suit you. 

Buy items such as denim dungarees or denim skirts that you can style with a different kind of top every time you wear it.

Mix and Match what you already own

Have a few pieces that you can mix and match. A white shirt, a pair of good jeans, find clothes that go well together and don’t be afraid to try new combinations. Get creative with your footwear as well because a casual outfit can be elevated to a formal outfit just by changing the footwear and accessories. Restyle existing looks that you have by changing accessories. If the weather permits, layer your clothes so that you can have dual looks just by choosing to add or not add a layer of clothing.

Look out for sales

Avurudu, Christmas and Ramadan are my favorite times of the year because of all the sales that go on! This is the best time for a money savvy individual to stock up on some quality pieces of clothing. You’ll be surprised by how much money you could save simply by shopping around during different times of the year. So remember: take advantage of all those holiday sales. If something you like is on sale, GET YOUR HANDS ON IT!

Invest in accessories

Accessories have the ability of taking an outfit from 0-10. Invest in some signature pieces that you can wear with lots of outfits. Look for accessories when you’re thrifting or at second hand stores. Try and interweave ethnic jewelry into your everyday clothing just to add an extra dimension to your outfit.

Refresh your wardrobe

Donate pieces that you don’t need anymore to second hand stores. Keep refreshing your wardrobe every 3 months so that it doesn’t become stagnant and filled with pieces that you don’t wear anymore.

Amana Iflal is ChoKoLAATes very own Editor and Executive Projects and Events.She’s currently studying for her Bachelor of Law (LLB) at the University of London and hopes to become the sassiest lawyer! When she’s free she likes to read, paint or binge watch her comfort shows (Derry Girls and Bridgerton). She also considers herself an ‘anxiety driven perfectionist’.  Follow her on Instagram (@amanawiflal) and Twitter (@AmanaIflal) if you don’t mind random content on your feed/TL.