How to Dress Well For Less

Yesterday, I wrote a post on how some people need to buy expensive designer things to look and feel rich. While I must admit, I do like designer clothing, there's no way I'm going to break the bank to wear anything brand name, although occasionally I do splurge.

Here's an example of something I really like – it's a Prada jacket, basic black. I have to say, it's really nice and would look good on me! But, here's the problem – it's about $450 US. There's no way I'm going to spend that kind of money on an item of clothing. I don't have a job where I need to wear clothing like that, and I'd rather spend my money on something else – like my retirement fund, or travelling.

But I liked it so much, I kept searching until I found something similar to it at Banana Republic – I managed to find a basic black jacket with a similar style for $120! Now, that's what I call a saving.

Photo: shopstyle.com

I frequently walk around the really expensive designer stores, not because I'm going to buy something, but just to see what's new and current. They also display things really nicely which gives me lots of great ideas for my own wardrobe. The only downside to this strategy is dealing with the snooty staff, but if you can handle it, it will pay dividends. The stores are pretty, too.

Here are my dress-well-for-less tips:

1.) As I wrote, shop the expensive stores for ideas but find a reasonable facsimile at some of the cheaper, but not necessarily poor quality stores. Some of my favourite stores are Kenneth Cole, Banana Republic or Mexx.

2.) Shoes – do NOT cheap out on the shoes, I'm sad to say. An ugly pair of shoes can ruin any outfit. But, you don't need to pay more than $200. I recently bought a pair of nice Kenneth Cole dress shoes half price for $100. You can get away with cheap pants or a shirt, but it's hard to do that with shoes. I would like a nice pair of Ferragamo's though …

3.) Always buy between season – I tend to shop for summer clothing at the end of summer. It's then ready for the next year or if you live in a mild climate like Vancouver, you can wear it all year round. I've never understood this spring, fall, winter, summer season thing. I still wear black in the summer, just so you know.

4.) Consignment stores/thrift stores – if you have the time and patience you can find some nice stuff for a much cheaper price. We are in the age-of-frugality now, so it seems that many people are doing this. I don't do this too often, though, as I prefer to buy my clothing new and I rarely have the patience. But, check it out for yourself.

5.) Outlet Malls – Nothing like buying designer at half price off or more. I went to an amazing one in Jersey and got a pair of Timberland jeans for $19 – and no tax!

I swear, if I had my way, I'd wear a grubby t-shirt, shorts and running shoes everyday. Unfortunately, I have an office job, so I still have to present a professional image.

There's no reason to spend a fortune on looking good. Most of the time, though, people can't tell what label you're wearing so skip the boutiques and save yourself a ton of money.

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• Overspending – What to do About It

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