$150 Challenge: Cozy Fall (Plus, How To Cut Costs)
Earlier this fall, Jael Paris made a Fall Inspiration post with several autumn-ready outfits. Because Jael creates these with style in mind rather than cost, I've been creating affordable versions of her looks to show how to translation inspiration into a budget friendly look no matter how where than inspiration comes from be it our blog, other websites or the major fashion magazines.
Jael's original set (above) cost nearly $1,400. My look (below) costs just 37 cents over $140. I was able to make it cost 90% less with a few simple tricks.
Jael's original set (above) cost nearly $1,400. My look (below) costs just 37 cents over $140. I was able to make it cost 90% less with a few simple tricks.
- Forgo the high end fabrics: The merino wool sweater became a cotton, wool, angora, synthetic blend sweater from Target. On the upside, it's machine washable. (You can also shop sales as seasons end to get high end fabrics much cheaper.)
- Focus on Function: An affordable sweater skirt could not be found, but I kept the comfy feel with an orange corduroy skirt.
- Use Accessories Wisely: I added some cozy over the knee socks to keep that oatmeal color and sweater feel of Jael's skir. The corduroy skirt came with a belt and brought orange to the look so I swapped Jael's orange scarf for a plaid one, which gave us the print effect that the belt had offered above. Inexpensive sunglasses replaced the costly eyeglass frames.
- Shop Sales: I got lucky with the brown booties and colorblock clutch, which were both on sale and from more affordable stores.
- Costume Jewelry is your Friend: I couldn't find ring similar to Jael's but I thought this simple chain ring kept with the laid back vibe--plus it cost a whopping $1.50.
- Use Shopping Search Engines: I find a lot of things by plugging key words into ShopStyle, Polyvore's Product Search, and Google Shopping. Just limit the top price to the most you'd be willing to pay so they only show you items in your price range. I also use the search function on my favorite stores' sites to find specific items.
Pictured: Cable Knit Sweater, Target, $27.99 / Plaid Houndstooth Scarf, Amazon, $4.99 / Belted Aline Skirt, Target, $22.99 / Scrunch Socks, Urban Outfitters, $14 / Colorblock Clutch, ASOS, $43.10 / Cable Chain Ring, Forever 21, $1.50 / Leopard Print Sunglasses, Forever 21, $5.80 / Buckle Booties, jcpenny, $20What are your tricks for keeping costs low while still getting the look you want?
Comments