Buying Tips for the Recessionista Fashionista

In the midst of a recession, retail sales can be constantly found in every nook and cranny-stretching from 30% off designer handbags to 70% markdowns on clothing. But with all these clearances, you shouldn't lose sight of what is fashionable and what is a part of the reject pile of last season's styles. The best way to go around bargain shopping for retail apparel/accessories is to pick essential classic items that will never go out of style and can remain in your closet for a lifetime! In fact, the top ten basics that every woman should have in their closet and make a mental note of purchasing (when bargain hunting) are:

1. The Little Black Dress (LBD)- As obvious as this may seem, many people don't realize how essential a LBD is to a woman! It is the perfect go-to article of clothing for a night out or any cocktail event! And the great thing about a LBD is that it can be paired with any colorful accessory (clutch, bag, jewelry, shoes, etc.) to play it up. But keep in mind, the classic and elegant LBD must give off a sort of Audrey Hepburn a la Breakfast at Tiffany's feel rather than a gaudy overly sequined and overly ruffled frock. The main point of an LBD is to keep it simple and timeless or else you'd end up looking sloppy...not exactly the image you want to depict.

2. Plain White T- I know you may be shocked, but you'd be surprised how many people actually own a simple plain white t-shirt nowadays. Including myself, I never realized how I overlooked such a necessity until the time came when I actually needed it! Now, to me, a plain white t-shirt (scoop-neck, V-neck, or basic crew-neck) is the perfect thing to wear on those days I'm feeling rather blah about myself or say not seeing eye-to-eye with my scale. The great thing about the plain white T is that you can tuck it into a nice full A-line skirt, wear layered, or with simple jeans. And I love piling on the gold necklaces or bangles (pick only one!) when I wear my shirt.

3. The Favorite Pair of Jeans- I know this is a tricky one because the "perfect fit" jeans are just so hard to find...I probably have better luck meeting Hugh Jackman than a rocking pair of jeans. But the trick to finding the perfect pair isn't always about paying ridiculously high prices at designer jeans stores. Many retail stores like Macys, American Eagle, etc. have inexpensive jeans that can always be compromised in order to get that perfect "glove-like" fit. But before buying jeans, you must ALWAYS try it on first and do the squat/sitting test! You're probably wondering what the squat/sit test is...well, when you wear a good pair of jeans that aren't too low or too loose on you, when you squat/sit down, the jeans should not fall down to reveal an undesired public view of your derriere. Instead, a good pair of jeans should cover up your bottom. And a pair of too-tight jeans are blatantly obvious because you would see an undesired belly bulge overlapping the top of your jeans (also known as the dreaded muffin-top). And in terms of length/size, rather than going for something too small and short, always get the next size up. Even if it is a little loose, you can always bring it to a tailor to be sized down/shortened. Take me for example, I am a fairly short 5"3 Asian American petite girl, so I always have trouble finding the right length for jeans. Sometimes the "short" is too short and the "regular" can be too long. So what I always do, is test out the fit of regular-length jeans and if it fits in every other aspect, I bring the pair of jeans to a tailor to have re-sized (generally inexpensive, costing around $20). It's a small expense for something that will definitely pay-off visually, in the long run!

4. A-Line Dress/Skirt- The A-line cut is a cut with a fitted top and a flared bottom that creates a shape which resembles a capital letter “A,” giving it its name. The A-line is a universally flattering dress/skirt shape for all women because it enhances curves, while hiding unwanted belly bulge. In fact, A-line dresses are perfect on everyone that many bridesmaid dresses/bridal gowns are designed with the A-line cut in mind. The best A-line dresses are light floaty fabrics that really give off the feminine playful flirty and youthful essence.

5. The Feminine Trench Coat- Going out at night and it's cold out? The best thing to wear over a pretty cocktail dress without compromising your style is a trench coat. These standard outerwear apparel are perfect to wear when it is a little chilly/sprinkling out. And you don't necessarily have to get a basic tan or black trench. You can always wear a colorful trench in purple, grey, red, yellow, white, etc. to brighten up a gloomy winter season. And the belt on the trench accentuates a woman's waist, so a girl can really have it all-warmth and style.

6. White Button-Up Shirt- Something you never see on a "Don't" fashion list is the tasteful white button-up. These crisp shirts remind me of the definition of clean and refined. And I love that I can always wear this to work without looking inappropriate. Even better, I can always layer it with a cardigan, vest, blazer, etc.

7. Chandelier Earrings- Are perfect for dressing up for a night out or just pairing with any casual outfit to bring attention to the face. These type of earrings are surprisingly so versatile and actually go with practically anything. Just remember to keep every other piece of jewelry to a minimal if you're going with chandelier earrings because these earrings already make their own bold statement.

8. Tailored Blazer- Are a great way to look polished and professional. It dresses up the most casual outfits to make it look classy. You can wear it under a plain white T, with jeans, a skirt, or for a more preppy look-with a crisp white button up.

9. Animal Print Accessory (Shoes, Bags, Clutches, Belts)- Adds a little pop to any outfit to give it that wow-factor! My favorite animal print closet item is my brown snakeskin strappy heels (shown in the image). When I pair those heels with my form fitting LBD, I always feel great!

10. Pencil Skirt- The epitome of femininity, the pencil skirt is a great way to dress professional at work without losing your feminine touch. Pencil skirts are sexy, yet sophisticated with curve hugging cover up. It definitely leaves a lot to the imagination.

Anyway, I hope these types helped you, the magnificent and smart budget-conscious fashionista that you are!