As much as I would love to float around wearing designer clothes from top-to-bottom, in this economy it’s an impossible feat.
Although I do recognise that I’m the problem, because if there’s one thing I am it’s self-aware.
I, unfortunately, have expensive taste, which means if my willpower one day decided to give way, I’d most likely end up in credit card debt.
Sure I would look fabulous, but behind-the-scenes it would be a totally different story.
Image: Instagram @nbonython.
Thankfully, on this week’s episode of Nothing To Wear, Leigh Campbell and stylist Nicole Bonython-Hines taught listeners how to make affordable pieces look luxe.
Listen to How To Make Cheap Clothes Look Expensive.
Nicole is no stranger to Nothing To Wear — in fact, this is her third time on the podcast. The stylist is credited for taking Kylie Minogue from soap star to pop star and has previously worked with Naomi Campbell, Toni Collette and Naomi Watts.
Leigh and Nicole. Image: Supplied.
Having worked on Elle Magazine, CLEO and Madison Magazine, Nicole is a style encyclopedia, and has so much wisdom to share.
Here’s everything she had to say.
Know when to spend money.
“There are some things worth spending money on, like a really nice blazer because it’s the type of clothing that you can keep forever and wear for many years. But also, pairing affordable pieces from places like Zara with a nicer pant or skirt can make an outfit look more expensive than it actually is. It’s just about tweaking certain parts of your look.”
If you’re going to impulse shop, then have a plan in place.
“I always suggest to people that if they’re going to go sale shopping then they should have a plan in place to help fill holes in their wardrobe, rather than just randomly buying things they don’t need.”
Try out trends, just don’t invest in them.
“You should buy really hardcore trends at a cheaper price point, because they’re not going to last. But if you buy an expensive classic piece then you can wear it for 10, 20 years. And there are so many dupes out there, for example, the mesh shoes have been copied by everyone, and you cannot tell the difference.”
Be smart about your accessories.
“You can get away with duping jewellery. For example, there are the Bottega Teardrop Earrings that have been replicated and are being sold at a much cheaper price point. But also, instead of buying a $4000 handbag, look into mid-range bags instead. They still look expensive, and while they aren’t completely affordable, they won’t cost you thousands.”
Keep an eye out for certain fabrics.
“There are few things I keep in mind when shopping for clothing. So denim wears the same no matter the price point and, look for 100 per cent cotton and wool fabrics. While synthetic fabrics can look cheap, it does depend on the item. For example, a polyester blazer can last for a long time.”
Look for colours that scream luxe.
“If you’re on a budget then it’s easier and cheaper to stick to two colours that work well together, like black and white or navy and tan, because colour does make things more expensive. The more experimental you get the more colours you need to have to create outfits.”
Bougie & Budget.
On Nothing to Wear, Leigh and Nicole shared their favourite bougie and budget items that will go with *literally* everything in your wardrobe.
Bougie.
Fendi Feel Fabric Slides, $1,650.
M.N.G Double Breasted Cotton Trench Coat, $329.95.
Budget.
IDS Mabel Maxi Skirt, $79.95.
Showpo Avah Trench Coat, $139.95.
UNIQLO 100% SUPIMA Cotton Crew Neck T-Shirt, $19.90.
Want more help with your wardrobe? We got you! Have a read of the latest fashion tips here.
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