STyle on a Teeny Budget

I have a strict & small budget that doesn't allot for much clothing purchases.

Right before I had gotten sick (we are talking three weeks before), I had purchased a long black Northface coat, Hunter boots & a TON of ski gear. And I thank God I was able to do that because my Northface coat & boots have lasted since 2010! My Hunters are slit up the sides though now - Has that happened to any of your Hunters? Please share!

I literally - rarely - buy clothes because 1). My dollars go toward medical expenses in Chicago & primarily organic food (and of course bills). This leaves little leeway to zero dollars for fashion.

I have had to get so creative about every purchase I make. I wrote about budgeting here for MindBodyGreen. And I find living with less quite freeing in many ways actually. I try to find joy in what I have vs. what I do not have.

In the winter, I basically wear one of two skirts every single day w/ exchanging one of four sweaters, three pair of tights, Hunters, TOMS ankle boots & above the knee boots I have had for 7 years. I wear a lot of pajamas too as I am in bed a lot. And that's the bulk of my wardrobe.

As I said, I have had to get creative.

Let me share three classic style ideas for those of you that have a small budget as well. The scarf in the photo above is 12.00 at Nordstrom w/ free shipping. Grab it! It's classic & versatile and goes with basically everything. You can wear it Winter/Spring/Fall. And I think it easily changes up any outfit. As shown in the photog, it dresses up even a crisp white shirt.

 
I really love layering & this marled grey tee at Nordstrom above is 13.00. What a steal. Add the scarf above (choose striped scarf in navy) to this tee w/ skinny dark jeans or a skirt and you have a classic outfit. I also love wearing this tee under black/navy sweaters for a bit of dimension to a monochromatic look.

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If you are going to splurge on one year-round versatile item, this top is a great choice. Being that it's Navy & White, it will go with pretty much everything in your closets. It's again - classic - with a bit of preppy infusion which I personally love. You can wear this year round......yes, even in the summer on breezy nights.

It's casual but, can be dressed up with heels or even dressed down with sneakers.

LOVE!

I first saw this top by the way on kellyinthecity.com. And I don't have the top but, hope to one day.

Guys, you can pull off a classic style at any budget at all. You just have to shop smart and get creative w/ what you already have. And if you can buy nothing at all? Dress up your style w/ a red lip or even change the part in your hair. Yes, changing the part in your hair changes your entire look! 

Lastly, if you are really into fashion & have the budget, my favorite fashion blogs are kellyinthecity.com and my absolute GO TO is thegoldengirlblog.com.