If you're anything like me, then you love modest fashion but also want to make sure it's affordable and quality. Modest, quality clothing comes with a price, and initially it felt overwhelming and intimidating. Since becoming more cautious of the modest clothing I am purchasing, I have been able to create a closet that I love and also could afford, so I want to help you do the same.
MODEST FASHION COSTS
Why does modest fashion cost what it does? When you are purchasing from us at Thomas Smith Wear, we are intentional with choosing quality clothing over fast fashion, which in turn does affect cost. When you support businesses that are creating quality clothing with sustainable fabrics and ethical manufacturing, you will pay more up front. However, I have found that in the long run, choosing quality over quantity has become more affordable for me over time.
With this in mind, I had to be incredibly intentional with my modest wardrobe purchases while on a budget. I want to show you how you can build your closet with modest clothing on a budget as well.
SLOW DOWN
When I chose fast fashion, I was a lot less intentional about my purchases and found myself spending unnecessary dollars on items I never ended up wearing. What does it look like to slow down and intentional choose modest clothing for your wardrobe?
First, I recommend going through the clothes you already have! Each season, I will sort through my clothes and ask myself questions like: "What are the items that I reach for over and over again?" "What items do I enjoy wearing?" "What are the pieces I never wear?"
After I have my closet cleaned out and organized, I then make a list of the items that I either need or want. A good rule of thumb is to stick to classy, timeless pieces and then supplement with just a few trendy styles that bring you joy!
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IDENTIFY YOUR STYLE
This was a particular area that I struggled in! I didn't understand what my own personal style was, so I would purchase random items that I thought could somehow work together, but they never did.
Another key to narrowing down the items you purchase is to ask yourself: "What clothing designs support my lifestyle?" "What is practical?" "What do I feel beautiful wearing?"
Think about the pieces that you reach for most often – I've found that for me, these are typically pieces that feel the most practical and also make me feel beautiful.
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GET A COLOR ANALYSIS
I have found that discovering my color season has been a game-changer for my wardrobe! Color analysis is used to identify which colors compliment you, and helps with narrowing down your selection when purchasing modest clothing.
This is not a necessary step, but I found that it can be very helpful to keep in mind when I am making fashion decisions. Knowing my color season has kept me away from purchasing items that I may later regret.
Want to learn more about color analysis? We have written a separate blog on this particular topic that could give you guidance on what your color season is.
Unlocking Your Natural Beauty: Color and Style Analysis
LEARN HOW TO STYLE YOUR CLOTHING
Less is more! When I have focused on timeless pieces and learned how to style them well, I ended up needing fewer pieces and spending less on clothing.
Take away the pressure of needing to wear a different dress for every occasion! Instead, try adding a belt, a different pair of shoes, styling your hair differently, or add a cardigan. Accessories and layers can completely transform an outfit!
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CHOOSE TO SHOP RE-LOVED ITEMS
Today, there are so many options I have found where I can shop consignment and save a lot of money. This is one of those simple ways you can cut down the cost of the items you are looking for on your list – shopping second hand!
I still need to shop with my list in mind, as it can also be easy to see a good deal and just grab the item. However, if I am not intentional, that item can end up being another item in my closet that I would never wear.
We love the option of shopping second hand! So much so, that we have created a separate site where you can buy and sell exclusive pieces from Thomas Smith Wear for a fraction of the price called . Not only can you buy secondhand, but you can also sell those older pieces that were taking up room in your closet. The program is the perfect place to recycle clothing and earn a little bit along the way!
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Are you excited to build a modest fashion wardrobe on a budget? We hope so! It may be a take time and be a process, but hopefully keeping these tips in mind will support you in your journey.
