Fashion is fun, creative and at times,  expensive. Struggling to afford an up-to-date wardrobe can often take the excitement out of shopping. If you’re looking for ways to expand your closet without breaking the bank, here are six tips that will have you spending less, while looking great!

Buy The Basics

Buying classic pieces, such as a good pair of blue jeans and a crisp white t-shirt, will go a long way in your closet. Also, since these items are so generic, it isn’t really necessary to spend a lot on brand names. In fact, basic pieces are usually quite easy to find at local stores, like Walmart and Old Navy, for great prices! Additionally, you can wear these pieces in several ways to create many different outfits. For instance, pairing two basics together is a great idea if you’re looking to emulate the minimalistic look that’s trending right now. You can also pair your basics up with statement pieces to create a stylish outfit!

Thrift Shops

If you’re one who gets excited when finding an amazing item for an even better price, go thrift shopping! Thrift stores sell gently used clothing at a great discount and many carry brand names as well. Additionally, many thrift stores have ‘tag sales’ where they further reduce the prices of items designated by the colour of the price tags.

Shop Out Of Season

Although it’s exciting to buy the newest trends each season, shopping for what’s not happening at the moment will ensure that you will get more value out of your dollar. Retailers put out-of-season clothing on clearance to clear the stock from their stores each year.  Though it may feel odd to be buying a winter jacket when it’s almost 30 degrees outside, it’ll save you some cash in the long run. Also, buying clothes out-of-season means that you will always have something in your closet for when the weather changes!

Accessorize

This tip relates to buying basic clothing pieces as accessorizing allows you to jazz up an otherwise plain outfit without breaking the bank. If you own any necklaces, bracelets, hats, belts, scarves, etc., odds are they can be mixed and matched with a variety of outfits to create unique looks! Guys can also accessorize with different ties, cuff links and watches. With accessories, you’ll never have to worry about wearing the same outfit twice!

Sign Up for Reward Cards and Mailing Lists

Signing up to a store’s loyalty program is one of the easiest ways to stretch your dollar when shopping. Whether the program consists of the no-fee, non-credit card rewards, a mail/e-mail subscription membership, or the credit-card rewards system, loyalty deals are some of the most effective ways you can save money at your favourite stores. For instance, reward cards usually offer members exclusive deals, like getting an extra 10% off on a specific day. In addition, the SPC Card (Student Price Card) gives its members hundreds of exclusive deals not only at retail stores, but almost anywhere! Many stores also offer a few extras along with their programs, like free shipping, first dibs on sales and freebie services.

Shop Online

Online shopping is easy, quick and convenient and it is becoming the way more and more people do most of their shopping. This is likely because online retailers usually have a bigger selection than most stores and offer amazing clearance deals and discounts seasonally! Nearly all online stores also offer free shipping after you spend a certain amount which makes it even more worthwhile. to shop online! You also almost never have to worry about your size being out of stock and it is easy to return your item(s) if you decide you don’t want them anymore!