Wardrobe Recycling Tips for a Tough Economy
In harsh economic times, fashion is a luxury often sacrificed to save money. Even with many boutiques and department stores advertising sales, it is difficult to justify spending money on clothing when the cost of food and living is rising steeply.
This is why now, more than ever, is the time to get creative and make do with what we already have in our closets. With inexpensive additions and easy adjustments to items currently in your wardrobe, you can refresh your clothing without emptying your wallet.
Jennifer Shaw, senior design director for the Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. brand offers these simple solutions for spicing up your wardrobe on a budget:
Closet Dive
Pull out old tops, sweaters and blazers you haven’t worn in a while and work them back into your wardrobe rotation. Fashion is cyclical, and you never know when something will come back in style again.
Add Accessories
Inexpensive costume jewelry adds sparkle to a basic black top. Try colorful statement necklaces — the bigger the better — in bright colors or naturals like cork or wood. Funky vintage brooches and bauble rings also steal the show.
Belt it Out
Clothes too big and baggy? Change the shape of a frumpy old sweater by adding a thin belt around your waist. This will liven up the sweater while complimenting your figure.
Layer it On
Extend the life of a summery blouse or sundress throughout the year by layering a cardigan sweater on top and opaque tights or skinny jeans underneath. Pairing with leather boots and a patterned scarf will also help change the season of your summer clothes while still keeping you warm.
My Boyfriend’s Back
Borrow clothes from the man in your life for a fresh look that is comfortably slouchy and undeniably sexy. Pair a men’s v-neck undershirt with cuffed jeans and a chunky necklace for an ultra-feminine accent.
Head-to-Toe Chic
Forget your flats, wearing a cute pair of shoes with a small or medium height heel will instantly lengthen the leg, flatter your figure and add style and glamour to any outfit.
“The key to lasting style is to start with a fitted, basic pair of jeans in a clean, dark wash,” Shaw says. “Jeans with a boot-cut leg opening look great on all different body types and the cut is classic and timeless. Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. jeans are fashionable, comfortable and best of all — affordable.”
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. jeans are available at Walmart and Kmart stores and online for women, men and kids. All styles retail for under $25. Visit www.signaturebylevistrauss.com for more information.