Most women in fashion, myself included, have a case of having champagne taste but working on a beer budget. The good news is anyone can create a high-end look by buying pre-owned designer accessories to compliment any outfit. This article will provide you with tips on creating stylish looks to mix in with pre-owned designer accessories. So if you like the idea of looking like you just stepped out of Vogue, without having to live on Ramen noodles all month, please read on!
Tip #1: Choose Classics
Classic wardrobe pieces are categorized as timeless items that will never go out of style. Examples of classic clothing items are white collared shirts, black slacks, khakis or perhaps a cardigan. No matter what the seasonal trend, if paired with a pre-owned designer accessory (specifically one of my favorites, which happens to be a Louis Vuitton Musette Tango handbag), you’ll instantly look runway ready!
Tip #2: Embellishments
You don’t have to be an experienced crafter to get busy embellishing clothes! A trip to any craft store will provide you with all sorts of goodies (fabric paint, feather strips, sequined ribbons, and lace) you will need to spruce up existing apparel. Now once you have dolled up your favorite dress add a gently used designer accessory, and you’ll now have a luxe look for less. BTW, two of my preferred craft stores are: Jo-Ann’s Fabrics & Crafts, and Michaels Craft Store.
Tip #3: Trend Hunting
Not sure how to use what you’ve got in your closet, grab the latest issue of In Style Magazine and scout for the latest trends(I call this beloved skill trend hunting) Every season has at least one trend that you can borrow, and make your own. Spend some time looking online at fashion and celebrity news sites. Decide what you like, perhaps even steal a look(need additional inspiration, check out my post on Kate Middleton), and complete it with your best second-hand accessory yet!
Tip #4: The K.I.S.S. Principle
When it comes pairing inexpensive items with your pre-owned designer accessories, be sure to apply the K.I.S.S. principle. Keep It Simple Sister! You want to create a look that draws attention – not one that looks like it belongs on a Christmas tree! Less is usually more, so take it slow when embellishing any item, and when you reach the point of true awesomeness, stop!
Tip #5: Consider the Designer Goods You Own
Of course, there’s also the issue of the pre-owned designer clothes you own. You want to make sure that whatever “feel” they have, you’re enhancing them with your accessories. Try to carry at least one element of their design through – whether it’s the structure, color or anything else – into the items you’re creating to wear with it. Don’t get too matchy-matchy though – you want the items to complement each other – not to look like you’re wearing a uniform!
Tip #6: Have Fun!
The fashion industry is constantly recycling trends, and offering consumers more fashionable options. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t wear what you already have! Have fun creating outfits this can be done in 3 simple steps: First, take photos of your favorite pieces and pre-owned designer accessories. Second, mix up the photos and play around with creating an outfit. Lastly, try it on to get a better feel of what you would like to add or remove from your look. It’s not science, and it’s not something you need to lose sleep over. In fact, the more fun you have with your clothes and accessories, whether they’re cheap or not, the better you’ll look wearing them!
