By Fashion Apothecary Design Co.
If you’re reading this, you most likely love style and fashion, but we don’t always have the fat wallets to pull it off. Here are some tips on how to look like a million bucks, without spending it.
Shop High End.
I know this first tip may sound contradictory, but just read on. If you avoid high-end department stores or designer shops because of their expensive reputation, think again! Most high-end stores either have outlet centers like Off 5th Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet or offer seasonal clearance sales like Barneys New York Warehouse Sale at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar. If you are used to shopping in bargain stores, step it up a notch and try a higher end store. Don’t be afraid to walk straight to the sales rack. If that purse you’ve been eyeing is marked down half price, you’ll be thankful you did! And when you’re done with your brand name duds, re-sell them to Crossroads, Buffalo Exchange or Wasteland – you’ll save even more!

Goodwill and Good Deals. This is one way to shop and help! Goodwill is North America’s leading nonprofit provider of education, training, and career services for people with disadvantages, such as welfare dependency, homelessness, and lack of education or work experience, as well as those with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. You don’t have to be a second hand frequent shopper to appreciate the good finds. Even if the store’s moth ball smell isn’t your thing, spending a few minutes in a resale shop can uncover a gold mine. Sometimes the most complimented item in my closet is a 3 dollar find from a resale shop, and look at the good your money will do!
Think Custom…and Save.
No, we’re not talking Saville Row, but having a good sense of who you are, what looks good on you and what you can and cannot wear allows you to customize your wardrobe by mixing up old and new pieces in a creative way. Think of your limited budget as a challenge to bring out your creative side! Both the budget conscious and the fashion lover in you can have a ball piecing together outfits. People spend a fortune trying to look unique, but here are some ways to do it on a shoestring budget - companies like Nike, Levi’s, and Timbuk2 allow you to custom design shoes, jeans and even messenger bags at the same price you would buy them in retail stores. And, they’ll be your own unique flavor!

But Please…Go for Your Look, Not Someone Else’s Label.
We know you have good taste, but you’re not paid to be a walking billboard! Advertising a name brand emblazoned across your chest isn’t cool and definitely doesn’t scream high class. Real fashion connoisseurs know a good article of clothing by its cut, the material and how it fits your body. Avoid buying an item just because it has the name across the front and definitely don’t buy it just because it’s on sale. The $50 you save on a so-so pair of sale jeans can go towards a pair that look fabulous, but cost twice as much.

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