We all love a bargain and with a less than thriving economy and a rapidly tightening belt, many of us are finding a bargain more essential. Now that Spring is here, our muted Winter wardrobes have to be packed away in preparation for the new season trends, but how on earth can you afford them all, or even a couple, when you are on a tight budget?
Well I’m here to say that you can be on trend on a budget, it just takes a little bit of research. By doing a little bit of shopping around, you can get some amazing in style outfits for under £100, including shoes and accessories. Swap impulse buying for savvy shopping…
Monochrome
It is the ultimate in evergreen fashion, the monochrome trend resurfaces every season, still managing to look fresh and contemporary. Black and white worn together is the ultimate in effortless chic, always looking stylish and classic. It is a look that you can adapt for the Winter season by adding some extra layering and a statement overcoat. Worth an investment, don’t you think?
Monochrome: 1) White Polka Dot Print Polo Shirt, River Island; 2) Biker Skirt, H&M; 3) Cotton Nylon Blend V-Neck Jumper, Matalan; 4) Black Monochrome Strappy Wedges, New Look; 5) Nail Paints, Barry M; 6) Mini Satchel, Primark.
Total: £79.76
Tartan and Checks
Tartan was a popular print over the Winter months, but I’m happy to say that it has plenty of longevity and is still set to be popular throughout the Spring/Summer 2014 season. Gingham and all things checked are also set to be popular, so go ahead and invest in some wearable and versatile pieces. Don’t be afraid to mix both tartans and checks in the same outfit, just make sure you keep the accessories simple.
Tartan and Checks: 1) Cream Check Duster Jacket, River Island; 2) Tartan Pencil Dress, Play,com; 3) Asymmetric Pointed Court Shoes, New Look; 4) Metallic Raffia Clutch, George @ Asda; 5) 10-Pack Rings, H&M.
Total: £99.96
Pastels
Pastels shades are definitely the colour palette of the season, with sugared almond tones being heavily represented on the catwalk and on the high street. As the colours don’t pop as much as saturated colours, make a bold statement by mixing several pastel shades together in a variety of different textures.
Pastels: 1) F&F Textured Boxy Shell Top, Tesco; 2) Pale Blue PU Skater Skirt, Glamorous; 3) PU Biker Jacket, Matalan; 4) Shoulder Bag, H&M; 5) Ballerinas, H&M; 6) Maybelline Color Show Nail Polishes, Superdrug.
Total: £99.96
Florals
Nothing says spring and summer like some fresh, stunning floral prints. Be bang on trend with a matching co-ordinate set and by mixing different floral prints together. You may think that might be a little loud, but that just means that your fashion statement will be heard. Keep your accessories simple and ladylike, to avoid a look that is too busy and over-the-top.
Florals: 1) Blue Floral Print Bralette Top, New Look; 2) Blue Floral Print Pencil Skirt, New Look; 3) Coral Jacquard Kimono, River Island; 4) Small Vintage Floral Handbag, Seasons Online; 5) Pheobe Nude Patent, Garage Shoes; 6) New Look 50’s Diamante Flower Stud Earrings, ASOS.
Total: £97.95
Sports Luxe
Luxe sportswear was a key trend of the summer season last year and it has resurfaced once again to be a hot trend for 2014. It can be a hard trend to master, so think of sporty materials such as neoprene and mesh panelling, or sportswear basics re-worked with luxe materials, like leather running shorts or sequin joggers. Neon accessories will mimic the reflective panelling of outdorr exercise gear, but with style. You definitely wont want to be exercising in these beauties.
Sports Luxe: 1) Top with Burnout Pattern, H&M; 2) Jane Norman Black Tailored PU Joggers, House of Fraser; 3) Sarah Metallic PU Sleeve Bomber, Boohoo; 4) Neon Colour Block Tote, Primark; 5) Stylish Neon Peep Toe Shoes, Milanoo.
Total: £98.89