The problem with keeping up with the latest fashions is that they literally change with the seasons, meaning that staying in vogue can become an expensive exercise. However, if you are a savvy shopper there are a number of ways of keeping the cost of an up to date wardrobe down – allowing you to dress to impress for less every season.

Money Saving Shopping Tip #1 – The Classic Capsule

One way of keeping the costs of being on trend down is to invest initially in a selection of quality items that can form a classic capsule wardrobe. These items should be timeless designs with classic lines that can then be accessorised or teamed with seasonal items in order to create an up to date look. When putting together a classic capsule wardrobe it is ok to spend a little more to get quality, because these are items that you will be wearing for years to come – making it an economical option in the longer term. Essential items include:

• Smart tailored trousers – in base colours such as grey and black.
• Timeless jeans – pick a pair with a fit that suits your shape, go for a pair that feel comfortable and make you look great, don’t be swayed by seasonal trends.
• Well cut T-shirts – a plain white tee can be the base of some stunning styles – invest in the best to last you for years.
• Classic cut dress – in a plain colour (usually black) that can be dressed up or down according to the occasion
• Plain tailored shirts that flatter your shape.

Money Saving Shopping Tip#2 – High Street Shopping for Each Season

It’s a well known fact that catwalk inspired pieces make it into some high street stores almost before the models reach the end of that runway. With a basic capsule wardrobe in place you can shop each season for accessories and items that will show you keep up with the current trends. Inexpensive fashion items are available from a range of high street stores such as H&M, Primark and Matalans and choosing a few key pieces that scream that season style will help to keep you looking up to date – even if you are wearing base pieces from two or three years ago. Looking for vouchers and discounts can help to keep the costs low, as well as choosing the least expensive expression of the latest fashions such as:

• Belts – a great way to update an outfit, check the season’s trend and buy belts that make a style statement.
• Scarves – these small pieces can be use to style any outfit and as favoured materials, prints and patterns change with the seasons, so your wardrobe can be easily updated. Use these as traditional neckwear, headwear or even tied at a wrist to signify your knowledge of current fashions.
• Tops – Choosing tops for day or evening wear is a great way to update a capsule outfit. Fashion tops are often inexpensive and can be changed with the seasons to stay on trend.