budget fashion

Luv thy layer

A favourite trend of mine at the moment is layers which are a perfect in-between season outfit option.

My tip – to avoid looking stumpy try and choose a ‘base layer’ (the white in my case) that is quite fitted, avoiding A-lines and team with ankle boots or heels.

Also think about colours, fabric and length when choosing your layers. If you are tall you can afford to go for longer layers, if you are short try and stick to layers that sit above the knee. Avoid anything too thick as this will only add bulk to your frame.

Sticking to simple black, grey and white and accessorising with colour creates a chic yet bold statement look. Teaming with a belt defines and highlights the waist creating a more tailored look instantly.

This is a really simple outfit that cost only $60.

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Bringing plaid back

Plaid is a big hit with celebrities and is a great winter print that is so versatile

My tip – experiment with plaid – if you’re not brave enough to try skirts, shirts and dresses, why not accessorise a simple outfit with a plaid scarf or headband.

Try out different colours too. Reds and blues look great on brunettes, and greens and yellows on blondes.

I love to team a plaid shirt with a camisole and some distressed jeans for a simple casual look that doesn’t cost the earth.

Total cost of this outfit $90.

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DIY – the tube skirt

I am a big fan of DIY, particularly when it is a fashion trend that you may only wear for one season.

My tip – do it yourself. This way you can have the latest in fashion, without spending the hefty price tag.

This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to get a look that is ‘on trend’. Tube skirts are hot and so easy to make.

Simply take a plain shoestring singlet, any colour you like– I picked this one up for $5, chop off the straps and as easy as that you have your own tube skirt that even Herve Leger would be proud of.

Alternatively if you are handy with a sewing machine, tube skirts can be just as easily put together – experiment with different pattern fabrics to create a truly unique look.
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Oversize me


This is one of the easiest, most comfortable and inexpensive outfits that anyone can throw together.

Simply grab an oversized shirt – I picked this one up for $10, you could also borrow one from a boyfriend, brother, dad. Add a plain cotton cardigan, team with leggings, cinch at the waist with a belt and heypresto you have a simple, stylish and affordable outfit for no more than $50.

My tip when opting for an oversized look like this is to always define the waist with a belt. This transforms a sloppy look into a polished outfit.

If you stick with a simple cardigan, why not experiment with different shirt colours and patterns. You could also swap the leggings for tights or skinny leg jeans and team with boots or ballet flats for a different look.

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Thinking outside the square

This is an easy summer outfit that certainly doesn’t break the budget. Simple accessories like a scarf and belt transform denim cut-offs and a plain singlet into a statement outfit that anyone can put together.

My tip is to think outside the square when styling outfits.

The shorts are an old pair of jeans that I’ve cropped, I picked up the scarf from an op shop and for the belt I’ve used a detachable handbag strap. Other belt ideas could be to use your favourite scarf or a long chain necklace.

Teaming this outfit with a simple cropped jacket makes for a more tailored look – great for a catch-up with the girls!

The total cost of this outfit, including shoes is $47, leaving you with more than enough for that extra latte!

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