The Daily Vanguard

Tips to Dressing Like the Stars on a Shoestring Budget

Ever catch a glimpse of style icons like Kerry Washington, Victoria Beckham, Justin Timberlake or Ryan Reynolds and wish you could have as much style and swag as they do? From flashy red carpet fashions to rugged, everyday wear, it seems that most of your famous idols never have a bad day. As much as you’d like to mimic their style, your income pales in comparison to theirs, leaving you with limited choices.

Well, that may be what you believe. However, the truth is, that a lot of the fashions that your favorite celebs wear can actually be achieved on a dime. Here are some secrets to dressing like the stars on a shoestring budget.

Always Look for Deals

See something you like on an A-lister and want to grab it for yourself? Don’t just head to the retailer and pay top dollar for it. Do some investigating to find a good deal on it. Love the designer shades Jamie Foxx was wearing at his latest movie premiere? You can purchase affordable designer glasses for men online for a fraction of what you’d pay at a mall or nearby retailer. The web tends to have tons of deals like discounts, free shipping, promo codes, and more so, don’t be afraid to look for them.

Choose Different Brands

So, you can’t afford to purchase a Hermes bag or Christian Louboutin shoes on the money you make; that doesn’t mean you can’t look great. Instead of chasing designer labels, try to find comparable items in a different brand. Often times when the designer’s line starts to trend, other brands will make their own versions to get in on the market. You may be able to find a nice pair of black pumps and an oversized bag from a less famous designer that looks the same but cost less.

Invest in Staple Pieces

Okay, so you can’t afford to have a closet full of high-end designer clothes and accessories, that doesn’t mean you can’t splurge on some. If you’re going to spend some serious cash, make sure it is on pieces that are more timeless and versatile that you can wear more frequently. Perhaps you spend a little more on a black or beige Birkin bag or Tom Ford shoes, but then you spend less on things like your shirts, pants, and accessories.

Rent Instead of Buy

If there is a piece you feel like you absolutely can’t live without, but would bankrupt you if you purchased it outright, then see if you can rent it for the day. Best kept for special occasions, there are places you can go and rent expensive jewelry, clothing, and shoes. This way, you can feel like a star for your event, but not go into debt trying to do it.

Check Consignment Shops

Though you probably won’t find Gucci, Fendi, or Prada at your local second-hand shop, you may be able to find such labels at consignment shops in really rich neighborhoods. When people get tired of certain things, they want to get rid of it and make a little cash in the process. They will bring some of their best items to consignment shops with the hopes of selling it for a decent percentage. There, you might be able to find slightly worn designer pieces to add to your wardrobe.

Who doesn’t love to look good and feel good when they step out the door each day? If you’ve got tastes and style that matches celebrities like Kim Kardashian, David Beckham, George Clooney, or Beyonce, but a budget that isn’t even a small percentage of theirs, it’s time to get creative. You can find the look for less if you just have a little faith and do a little digging. These tips will help you purchase and keep up with upcoming fashion trends for less while filling in the rest of your wardrobe with trendy but affordable pieces that bring the look altogether.