It’s no secret that my #1 goal in my 35^th year is to reduce my spending and to look great for less. Easier said than done for a shopaholic with fickle tastes! One day I want to be classic, the next trendy, the next relaxed, the next dressed up. It’s exhausting and expensive.

But my goal of saving money is stronger than my desire to try all the new things. Instead, I’ve turned my shopping energy towards classic pieces that will remain in style from season to season. And when I do dabble in a trend, I do it cheaply.

Most people would say to invest in better quality classics, but I simply don’t have that kind of cash to spend – and if you’re reading this, you probably don’t either. I also sweat a lot, and my weight fluctuates quite a bit throughout the month and the year. Spending a lot on wardrobe staples is not worth it for me because they don’t fit consistently or are pitted out in two shakes

BUY CLASSICS FOR LESS

Guess what? There are smart ways to look great for less!

Exhibit A: I checked out the A New Day collection from Target, and I was pretty impressed with the prices and the quality. I tried on several of the pieces and walked away with a few items that will work together and will weave into my existing wardrobe – for a total of $76.

The boyfriend blazer is the MVP. It has a longer hem than most blazers but is slim fit, lined and in a classic plaid. If I take good care of it, it will last for years and will go with black, tan, navy, gray and wine (my new neutral). Cost: $35.99
I chose this short-sleeve turtleneck because it’ll look cute under this blazer or tucked into a flared skirt with a statement necklace. If I sweat it out in 4 wears, I won’t lose too much money. Cost: $14.99
The cropped pants are nicely structured and come in a couple jewel tones, as well as black. I chose the wine/berry color because they add a fun pop of color, and will also look great with a white button-up oxford shirt or a black sweater for work. Size down because they have stretch. Cost: $24.99

Other places I recommend for a great deal on classics are discount stores like Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross where you can often snag a really great brand for very little.

CHOOSE TRENDS WISELY

When you’re on a budget, you don’t have to abandon trends completely, either. You can sprinkle in the latest faux fur accessory or crazy-it-color without over-committing to a style that will be gone next season.

Exhibit B: Furry puff balls on shoes. I just LOVE this trend, but I couldn’t bring myself to spend any dough on it because it most certainly will not last. Instead, I snagged these clip-on puff balls at H&M for $5.99. I can wear them on any of my pumps or flats! When the trend is over, I won’t bat an eyelash when I toss them in the trash can.

TREAT CLOTHES WELL SO THEY LAST LONGER

Finally, the key to making pieces last longer is to treat them as well as you can – from the most expensive to the cheapest. Here are my tips:

Hang your clothes up or fold them and put them away when you get home.
Wash them on delicate and hang dry as much as you can.
Where armpit protectors under tops and inside jackets to contain smells and stains.