Do you love nothing more than grabbing your purse and hitting your local shopping mall or high street? If so, you're not alone!
Shopping can mean different things to different people. It may be a bit of retail therapy for you and help you feel good. It may be boredom. Or maybe you simply have a passion for fashion and love to keep up to date with all of the latest trends and seasonal clothing!
However, fashion is not always affordable, especially when you are wanting to buy new things all the time. Luckily, there are a lot of ways to help you save money whilst fulfilling your passion for clothes. Here’s a starting block to help you out.
Give Yourself a Monthly Budget
Budgeting your money is going to be your lifesaver and one of the best ways you can keep up your shopping habits.
In the current climate with all of the utility bills and cost of living increasing in price, you cannot afford to be spending all of your monthly allowances on clothes. Budgeting will keep you from overspending and keep you on track each month - whilst still allowing you your little bit of luxury and clothing shopping from Miss Empire, for example.
Be Aware of What You Already Have
Another way to fuel your passion for shopping is by keeping an eye on what you already have in the wardrobe. You will be at risk of completely wasting money by buying the same thing, so utilise what you already have and avoid buying duplicates.
You need to check every now and again and think about what you need rather than what you want and what items will match best with what you already have. Invest in versatile pieces of clothing from stores like ASOS and when thinking of buying an item, be sure that you already have a few items in your wardrobe that your new item will look good with.
Avoid Impulsive Splurges
Think in advance when you are shopping with your friends and DO NOT take your credit card with you! (I mean, your bf's card is fine, but not your own).
If you don’t have it, you don’t spend it. Take the amount of cash that you have budgeted and only spend the money you have. Keep the question ‘why?’ in your mind when you're thinking of buying something as this can be the easiest strategy to stop you from spending more than you should on clothes from stores like Missguided…..because it’s so easy to do! Set yourself a challenge and smash it!
Shop Second-Hand Items
One of the most well-known and obvious benefits of buying second-hand is the cost saving. Preloved and second-hand clothing marketplaces like eBay are on the rise and for very god reason! You can usually find what you are looking for, for a fraction of the price.
Shopping in charity shops can benefit you and also them. You find huge bargains along with giving back to the charity. Who knows, you may even find designer clothing. You can’t buy a lot of items second-hand, but clothing and accessories are an easy option that has a lot of benefits.
Buy Versatile Pieces
Avoid buying seasonal items or extravagant clothing. Versatile items are a better route to fueling your passion for shopping on a budget.
Neutral toned classic items such as plain tees, jeans and blazers from Boohoo for example, that can be mix and matched are your best buys. These can be dressed up with the right accessories or dressed down when paired with trainers for a more casual look - so you can get more outfits for your money. If you are stuck on where to start, look at influencers on social media on how to start a capsule wardrobe.
Always Hit the Sales
Shopping in the sales is always the best way to update your wardrobe. But beware that you don't get too carried away, set yourself a budget and keep a list when you are hitting the sale to avoid over-buying and over-spending. Stores like Dorothy Perkins regularly have seasonal and other sales throughout the year so it’s worth checking them out too.
Make a list of the items you want in advance so that you know you are actually saving money and how much you will be saving to see if it is worth it. You may find that some shops put the price up just before the sales and then discount the price for the sale. You should also sign up for sale notifications as sometimes you get early access and can bag the best bargains.
Create A Short-Term Savings Account
Saving on everyday items is important, but what about when you are wanting to buy that costly new pair of leather boots, or a new designer bag or trench coat? Can you really afford to be paying out for it all in one go? Just like before, think about a budget.
Plan in advance and put money aside in a short-term savings account. Set up a standing order and the money will build up without you even noticing!
Look Out for Discount Codes
As with anything, when buying new clothes and saving money, look out for discounts and grab as many as you can! Signing up to newsletters or subscribing to emails usually results in discount offers being sent to you. Be sure to add your details as you often get an extra discount on your birthdays too. Memberships, rewards and loyalty schemes will also offer discounts each time you spend.
And don't forget, always check out our live discount codes page for any exclusive deals, too!
