The credit crunch is still making an impact on our world. People are taking public transport, eating in, rather than out, and generally cutting back on the small treats that as a nation we had become accustomed to. So here at POSED we have decided that enough is enough. If we can’t afford go on holiday, or drink mineral water, then we can at least look fabulous while we run for the bus!
Here are our top five tips for looking chic while keeping it cheap.
5. Pick and mix. It’s the classic solution. Take out your best outfits and lay them side by side on the bed. Have your belts, cardies, handbags, jackets, jewels, scarves, shoes, shrugs, skirts and trousers nearby. Now start to mix and match in combinations you’ve never tried before. If you’re really organised, then photograph all the new versions you think will work.
4. Get Crafty. You can’t afford to go out so much, so use your new found time to make ‘dress décor’ that is uniquely yours. When you are dumping any old sad rags in the textile recycle bin, harvest all the reusable, baubles, belts, buttons and bows. Buy brooch backs and bars, bead wire, clasps, ends, hooks, fittings and sewing kits from your local haberdashery store. Now let your creativity and fingers flow.
3. Hide and seek. Second hand stores can be a hit or a miss. Some days you’ll uncover a gem. Others times it’s like raking through your grandad’s wardrobe. Look for stores that specialise. This can save a lot of effort if you are on a hunt for something specific, even bridal wear! Source an Oxfam in the City’s WAG district and you will be sure to find plenty of last season’s barely worn designer garb. With a few tweaks, and creative customising, no one will ever know. Trawling can be a lot of fun. You just don’t know what will be there the next time!
2. Swap Shop. Have your very own Swap Party! Just because you have grown weary of your outfits, it shouldn’t mean banishment to the darkest corners of your wardrobe! The increasingly popular swap party is a simple and fun way to rejuvenate your look and help your friends to do the same. Choose which items will be swapped, and label each with value brackets so that everyone gets a fair deal. Every partygoer gets a swap token for the selection they bring. If one item is too popular, draw tickets from a hat. Getting a new wardrobe has never been so guilt free.
1. Retro rocks! Our number one tip for busting the Credit Crunch is to hire some quality vintage! If you are stressed about looking perfect for your best friend’s wedding, and only have that tired old dress from last year, then hiring is for you. It’s cheaper than buying a brand new outfit for your special occasion, and you can select a spectacular one-off that no one else will be wearing. Treasure troves like Saratoga Trunk stock thousands of beautifullypreserved ball gowns, cocktail dresses and so much more. Make an appointment to browse to your heart ‘s content, while getting expert advice on shapes and styles. You can hire an outfit all week for just £35, and for £45, can select accessories to go. Best of all, when the wine has been savoured, and the photos snapped, you won’t need to use up precious wardrobe space. Just return the whole outfit!
words: Lauren Lamarr
photograph: Dave McAleavy
styling: Pamela Reynolds - clothing from Saratoga Trunk.
model: Sophie @ Superior Model management
makeup: Sian Lidgate - www.siananigans.com
