Modest Fashion on a Budget: How to Build a Stylish Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank
Shopping for Modest Fashion on a Budget
Looking to curate a modest wardrobe, but not sure how you will be able to afford it? Modest, quality clothing comes with a price, and it can definitely look overwhelming and intimidating. That's exactly why we've come up with a few ideas to help you create a closet you believe in, and that you can afford.
First of all;
Let’s talk about why sustainable, modest fashion costs what it does! Fashion is no different than any other spectrum in life; you pay for what you get!
When you choose quality clothing over fast fashion, especially when you support businesses that are fair trade, you pay more up front. However in the long run, choosing quality over quantity saves you so much money!
Now, let's dive into how you can create a modest wardrobe on a budget.
Slow down.
When we choose to intentionally think about what we are purchasing to add to our closets, and why, this helps us avoid spending unnecessary dollars on items we will not end up wearing! What could this process look like?
- Go through the clothes you already have! Sort through them and ask yourself questions like; "what are the items that I reach for over and over again?" "What items do I enjoy wearing?" "What are the pieces I never wear?"
- After you have organized, make a list of the items that you need / want! A good rule of thumb is to stick to classy, timeless pieces, and choose to supplement with just a few trendy styles that make you happy.
Identity your style.
Another key to narrowing down the items you purchase is to ask yourself; “What clothing designs support my lifestyle?” “What is practical?” “What do I feel beautiful wearing?” “What styles enable me to live out my convictions and beliefs?”
Most likely the pieces in your closet that are practical, and yet also make you feel beautiful will be what you reach for the most often.
Take a color analysis.
Something we have found helpful at MSE is to identify what season your skin tone is and what colors compliment you! This is definitely not a step you must take, however it can be very helpful to keep in mind when you are making fashion decisions, and can help keep you from purchasing items you may regret. We wrote a another blog post on this topic that you may find helpful!
Unlocking Your Natural Beauty: Color and Style Analysis
Model is wearing the 'Bronwyn' Tencel Button Front Belted Dress
Learn how to style your clothing.
Less is more! When you stick to timeless pieces, and learn how to style them well, you end up needing fewer pieces, and spending less!
Take away the pressure of needing to wear a different dress to every occasion! Instead, try adding a belt, a different pair of shoes, style your hair differently, or add a cardigan.
You can reference Creating a Modest Professional Wardrobe: Tips for Timeless Style, or identify how to add accessories to your outfits in this article: A Simple Guide to Accessorizing Your Modest Wardrobe.
Choose to shop re-loved items.
One simple way to cut down the cost of the items you are looking for on your list, is to shop second hand! Remember to keep your list with you! Sometimes when you notice a good deal, it's tempting to just grab it. However, it may end up being another item in your closet you never wear, and end up wasting money on! Nevertheless, sometimes you are able to find just what you are looking for, for half of the price! Definitely worth taking a chance on. And that pile of clothes from MSE you found in your closet that you never wear? The MSE re-loved program is the perfect place to recycle them and earn a little bit along the way! https://mainstreetexchangeapparel.com/pages/reloved
When you are shopping;
After you have made your list, here are a few things to consider when you are shopping.
- It sounds simple, but try to stick to your list! Especially when you are surrounded by a lot of cute clothes, remember to only purchase items that you love, that will work for your lifestyle, ( practical ), and that compliment you. It may sound obvious, but the best way to save when shopping for clothing, is to simply spend less!
- Check fabric content tags! This will help you determine the durability of the item, as well as if you are okay with the care the piece of clothing may require.
Fabric quality.
What are your pieces made out of? This is an important question to ask when you are looking to build a modest wardrobe on a budget! When you choose to purchase items that are built out of quality fabrics, you will not need to replace your clothes as often. At MSE both our Product Development Manager and our Boutique Buyer / Product Coordinator are intentional to pick quality pieces for each collection. Each item is also fitted on by our team! Feel free to reach out to us anytime with questions!
Care for your clothing.
Learning the correct methods of washing and caring for your clothing is another way to make sure that your clothing stays in optimal condition! Try to wash your clothing in cold water, hang it to dry, and use gentle detergents. Some fabrics ( like rayon ) are known to shrink! Be aware of the quality of your item and do not be afraid to ask a store stylist at MSE for advice or help! Follow the care instructions on the clothing care tags as much as possible! Some fabrics, like linens, require special attention. It may be worth it to educate yourself on how to take care of your clothing!
Are you excited to build a modest fashion wardrobe on a budget now? We hope so! It may be a take time and be a process, but hopefully keeping these tips in mind will support you in your journey!
With 🤍
- The Main Street Exchange Team
