Dress well and spend little: 10 tips

HOW TO DRESS WELL ON A LITTLE MONEY

Being elegant is a matter of style and not spending power. Sure, money helps, but with second-hand purchases online and swap party With friends, you can redo your wardrobe without spending a fortune: the secret is knowing what you can't do without and how to take care of it.

ALSO READ: Ecoalf, the Spanish company (photo) that transforms Mediterranean waste into clothes

Remember that the first commandment for dressing well and elegantly while spending little is to start off on the right foot: from your closet. Taking a good look at what you have, what you need and what you can reuse, perhaps with just a few small adjustments. dressmaking craft.

• POSH TONE

If you find un coat or a blazer If you're using a material that doesn't wrinkle easily, you can give it a posh touch by replacing the plastic buttons with metal or fabric ones, which will instantly lend it a more sophisticated touch. You can find them online at a good price or at your local haberdashery.

• SIMPLE BAG

When you are dealing with a bagStick to simple styles and uncomplicated construction, like a simple clutch or a black satchel (a multifunctional satchel-like bag), which are timeless and make a statement at a low cost. Opt for faux suede, which is much better than fake faux leather or, worse, patent leather.

• USE THE STEAM IRON

Il iron steam powered It will be your best ally. Get into the habit of giving your clothes a quick wipe before going out: they'll look fresher and newer. Creases can make even an Armani suit look cheap.

• ATTENDING A SWAP PARTY

Learn to attend swap parties, shops and vintage markets (Not the ones where they rip you off), shops offering fair promotions and discounts, and reliable websites. As for materials, fabric selection, for example, is crucial. Tweed, cotton, and linen often appear more expensive than they actually are. Outlets can also be helpful: perhaps there's a designer dress from an old collection that's nicer than the new one. Don't neglect vintage shops and flea markets, either: they're also very enjoyable to browse, and you might find a good deal. Elegance at a low cost. When it comes to online shopping, you're spoiled for choice: the important thing is to choose reliable sites. 

• EYE ON THE WARDROBE

Take care of yours wardrobeTo remove unsightly golf balls and woolen clothing, run an electric razor or razor blade over them, taking care not to damage the garment.

• SHOPPING IN THE CLOSETS

Go shopping in your closetsIf you find dresses with beautiful prints and quality fabric, take them to a tailor and have them re-fitted to your shape: a dress that fits perfectly will seem more chic than it actually is. If you look carefully, you'll surely discover some unworn pieces that could be useful with a simple tailoring touch-up. A vintage dress, in short. The important thing is not to follow trends, but to have your own style.

• THE CLASSIC BLACK

Classic black foreverIf you're hesitating between a color and black, always opt for midnight hues. Black slims things down and makes everything look more tailored and expensive.

• ACCESSORIES TO RE-EVALUATE

When you buy a dress that includes a belt or scarfTry suggesting that the retailer leave them there and offer you a discount: matching sets are generally made with low-quality materials to reduce the overall price. It's much more elegant to replace them with an accessory from your own wardrobe, which breaks up the look and adds a touch of sophistication.

• TAKE CARE OF YOUR SHOES

Pay close attention to shoesThere's no need to buy tons of pairs, but it's important to take good care of the ones you already have. A thorough brushing at home, a shoe repair, and a proper shoe rack: if your shoes are ruined, the whole outfit becomes less appealing.

• ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Attention to detail and sobrietyDon't try to cover up a cheap dress with plastic accessories: opt for a single piece of beautiful, quality jewelry (necklace or earrings).

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date. Click here!

IDEAS FOR A FREE REFRESHMENT OF YOUR LOOK:

• Old carpets become eco-chic bags. A project by two young graduates (photo)
• DIY headband: all you need is an old tie or a pair of jeans you no longer use (photo)
• Recycled pieces of fabric and cloth become DIY earrings and cushions (photo)