How to Make Alternative Fashion Work on a Basic Budget

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Published on Sep 02, 2022
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A lot of people feel their best when wearing something that showcases their personality rather than just something that is on trend.

But what does that mean for you? For people on a budget, it can be difficult to find good pieces that really represent their personality. So here’s how we can help!

What is Alternative Fashion?

Alternative fashion is known as fashion that stands out or stands apart from the mainstream on-trend fashion. A lot of people are no longer interested in fitting in with everyone else and choose to be different. 

Alternative fashion originated in the late 80’s from punk style and emerged then from subcultures such as emo, goth & hip-hop. Band shirts and shirts showing your favourite game are becoming more and more popular. 

If you want to get started on your new look, take a look at how we can help.

How to Save Money on Your Alternative Garms

Shop Pre-Loved Items

Pre-loved clothes hardly ever disappoint. The majority of the time you find quality and more importantly affordable clothes at second-hand marketplaces such as eBay – which is exactly what we want when on a budget! 

Charity shops or online apps such as Vinted or Depop can be an absolute goldmine for finding something a little different and quirky. If there are any pre-loved stores around your area, go and grab yourself a bargain. 

Check Out Vintage Shops

Just like pre-loved stores, vintage shops are also a great discovery for alternative fashion. 

Vintage clothing from stores like Rock n Romance Vintage Clothing can age from a couple of years old to 10’s of years old and you are always bound to find something that you wouldn't in a regular high street shop.

Jazz Up Current Clothes (DIY)

Don’t just go for new items, take a look at what’s staring you in the face. You can make good use of your old clothes, whether they no longer fit or you don’t have a use for them – you do now! 

You can transform them into any outfit you want. Dig out your sewing box and grab your scissors or take a look at craft stores such as Crafters Companion for sewing and needle kits, cut rips into your jeans and tops, and stitch on badges or two items together. Be as creative as possible! 

Always Accessorize

Accessories are always the items that bring the outfit together, whether this is mainstream fashion or alternative fashion. 

This could be anything down to leather studded bags, chunky heeled shoes, dark lipstick, layered jewellery from Accessorize and crazy hats. And best of all, with accessories you can get that alternative feel to your look that your after without having to break the bank. 

Don’t Jump On Trends

Try and try as much as possible to stay out of the trends. Alternative fashion means you are passionate about being unique, but even with alternative fashion, you will find trends occurring. Stay true to yourself and don’t just follow the crowd check out vintage stores like Open For Vintage for some truly classic vintage pieces to spruce up your look. 

More often than not it will be more expensive to stay on trend than to do your own thing and stay alternative. Trends only seem to last for a short period and you will find yourself re-buying when something new comes out. Stay true to yourself!

Shop Online

If you are not down for the unorganised chaos that is vintage and pre-loved shops, then shopping online at stores such as Etsy where you will find unique clothing and items, is where you will be able to easily find what you are looking for!

A lot of online stores will show a reviews section, be sure to do your research and find out what other customers think. Don’t go head first into it and end up being disappointed with the items. Social media platforms are also a great way to inspire you for your next outfit!

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Charlotte Marshall

Lead Editor

Being a full-time content writer and part-time shopaholic, globe-trotter and avid lover of all things food (and wine)...I love researching the best money-saving hacks so that I can help fuel my own passions, and yours!

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