I’m having a huge issue—I change my style way too often. I might be a total emo kid one day, then within a couple months, I become a full-on prep. And as you can imagine, with each phase, I buy different clothes to fit my new look. So right now, I have a closet filled to the max with stuff that I don’t really wear.
I like good changes, but my constant changes are causing me to waste my money and be unhappy with the clothes I have. How can I settle on a style that works and spend my clothing allowance wisely?
Hey fashionista!
As every trendsetter knows, growing up means trying different looks. Your look is going to change throughout your life. But don’t feel bad about it. Your style is one way to reflect the inner Y-O-U, and everyone goes through these little makeovers. Just two years ago, my sister made a complete switch from goth to urban chic. That left her with a big pile of clothes, too. Luckily, we found lotsa ways to give her a li’l closet room.
The biggest thing my fam did was donate some of the items she just wasn’t going to wear again (spike bracelets, much?). My mother has always been big about giving to those in need, so she set aside a couple bags and called a local charity. Places like the National Children’s Center or Salvation Army are always looking for clothing donations, and their trucks will pick up your bags at no charge. Talk about some door-to-door service! All it takes is a phone call and before you know it, those old goth frocks you have no interest in will be helping another fellow fashionista in need.
Another thing we did was pack up some of my sister’s more wearable pieces and gave them to my neighbor. Sharing is caring in the world of couture, and my neighbor loved the cool band tees! Take your old faves and offer them to your friend or neighbor. You may start a trend and get some chic hand-me-downs yourself. One person’s trash is another person’s fash treasure, no?
If you’re looking to get a little cash back on your big spending, you could also save your clothes and sell them at your next yard sale. Sure, you won’t get the full retail value back, but every shopper loves a good bargain. Get your parents to help price your items or if you can’t wait for the next sale, make your own on eBay. A little money in the bank for old fashion that tanks is a way good investment.
As for determining that perf style at a perf cost? Try combining styles. You’ve tried all the looks: now take the best of each one and make a unique look that’s all your own. Spend your allowance on little accessories that will bring your look together with the clothes you already have. That red plaid skirt you swore was so punk? Pair it with a white blouse and pearls to make it preppy. Pieces are versatile—just like you. So get creative and mix and match. Every good stylist knows how! You’ll find you’ll be setting the trends as the star of your own runway. Go for it!
Infinite xoxo’s,
Alyssa B.
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