When talking dollars and clothing, you get what you pay for. I think that good quality clothing and accessories are worth their cost, and I also think there is a place for fast-fashion and inexpensive clothing and accessories as well.
I am currently reading Style Clinic by Paula Reed, a book I feel is worth purchasing in paper format versus electronic as referencing is so much easier that way, and amongst its' pages she discusses how to shop during a sale. She asks her reader to question a potential 'on sale' purchase by having them decide whether they would buy the sale item for full price or not. If the answer is yes then the find is the epitome of sale shopping good luck; if the answer is no, then put that item back and keep looking because it is not something you truly love, want, or need. Buying something because it is only $20 or because it's designer for only $200 are not reasons to purchase anything. A reason to purchase something is because you have consciously decided it's an item your closet needs, and the two reasons previously listed are a bonus. Realizing the differences here is a big deal, at least it is for me. I am so guilty of buying things because of the label inside and the fact that is was on sale, instead of actually needing it and then proceeding to hunt it down and finding a sale price. Many of my decisions to not purchase something I've found and loved have been made because of a high price tag, and every time I decided not to purchase I've regretted it. Case-in-point: a pair of patent leather bright pink pumps by Alexander McQueen I found at Neiman Marcus Last Call (my favourite store on EARTH). Say they were half off the original price for the sake of the story, i didn't purchase them, I thought $300 was too much. Mr. McQueen passed away the very next day and, aside from missing out on owning a flawless pair of colourful pumps, I missed out on owning something created by him while he was alive. Moral of the story, don't let something you love pass you by when you see it. Buy it. If you're on a budget for your shopping that day, put something else back to afford the item that you love (more useful advice from Paula).
I got to thinking about how much I would spend on something and I realized I'm cheap. There are several types of clothing that I just can't rationalize spending a lot of money on, such as underwear, socks, t-shirts, exercise clothing, the majority of fun accessories, the bulk of casual wear like leggings, day dresses, and tunics, and even jeans. I think the ability to spend a lot of money on clothing comes from a desire to have a particular label on a garment, whether you admit it to yourself or not. This post is pretty much my opinion on amounts to spend on things, and is very loosely tied to my series on classics, as I see those items as things worth spending more on. However, there's nothing I love more than a good bargain, so that $700 wool coat better be on sale dammit.
Here we go.
Underneath
I don't see the point of expensive underwear. Underwear get dirty, so, this may be a place to save. Also, I include lingerie in this category as well because that stuff doesn't stay on long so I don't get the point of spending a lot of money. The only exception is a properly fitting bra, especially for those with a large chest. Socks are a dicey one because sometimes a sock is meant to do something specific, like absorb sweat when you're running 5K, and the ones that do this well are AWESOME. Monday to Friday trouser socks and sweat socks on a Sunday can be shamelessly inexpensive. Same goes for nylons, the less the better. Pyjamas also equal save.
The Upper Half
I think t-shirts should cost $20 or less, and any more than $50 and you're crazy. Ever hear that Macklemore song? "…you're getting tricked by business…" Same thing for tank tops. Polos no more than $80. If they are vibrantly coloured you want them to stay that way so buy the brand name. Blouses, $100 or less, depending on the fabric. Sweaters, $150 for the same reason. And yes you can find cashmere for $150. Shop the sales.
Jackets are not investment pieces. They are worn in milder weather than winter coats and often can be used when layering so don't bother spending more than $40-$80 on a jacket. The only exception here is when one is made out of leather. Leather or suede will set you back, but no more than $250 max. Wait for a sale.
Coats are another item that will set you back a bit of money. Spending over $1000 on a good quality coat is not necessary and this sum will cover wool dress coats for winter, trenches, and casual puffer coats, all of excellent quality with cash to spare, unless you're purchasing designer items.
The Bottom Half
Jeans. If you find a pair that make your derrière look like it can bounce quarters buy them whatever the price. DO NOT buy them because of the label first and fit second because then you're wasting your own money. Jeans are a heartbreaker for women, they can let us feel very bad about ourselves. All brands fit differently. Don't look at the size as being a skinny or fat indicator, the only thing it's there for is to guide you to what fits you best from brand to brand. Just because you're a 4 in one pair and an 8 in another doesn't mean you ballooned up 4 sizes. Jeans can be their own post altogether, but bottom line is if you find what makes you feel good lookin', buy it.
Trousers. Finding an incredible pair of dress trousers for $200 or less is completely possible and should be done. Alternatively, when looking for a perfect fitting pair of trousers, do not opt for the $60 pair; they won't fit you like a $200 pair because the cut and craftsmanship won't be as meticulous, and the fabric won't be as good of quality. Also, with a more expensive pair of trousers you'll probably find that they are lined which adds to the durability and look of the pant. Trousers, especially black ones, are a staple and quality counts, so spend some jake. Business casual pants, a.k.a. khakis, should never cost more than $50. These pants are hideous anyways, don't spend a lot money.
Skirts. This item cost depends on the function. If it is a black pencil skirt then $150 on this item is worth it as it will get miles of wear, and that is a ton of money for a skirt. A flowy peasant maxi skirt for Saturdays at the market, then $40 max. Generally speaking, I would not spend a lot of money on skirts as you get less wear out of them than you do pants.
Shoes. I don't believe in cheap shoes, and by cheap I mean $100 or less, unless it's a shoe that has a sale price below $100. For the record, I don't mean $100 flip flops either, I'm talking pumps, evening sandals, wedges, etc. Shoes take a beating and, unless you're into throwing away money, buying quality in this category is really worth it. You'll get real leather or suede, quality craftsmanship, good stitching, quality soles that won't fall or peel off. Boots are even more expensive when you're buying quality and I would say go no less than $250 for the same reasons as shoes. If you have lots of money to spend on designer shoes then there is no ceiling to your spending, but a good pump should cost no more than $400, and boots no more than $500. Sneakers, which are completely different from running shoes, should be no more than $80. Running shoes can range and, because they have a function to perform, will cost you at least $150-$200. Spend the money; your knees will thank you. Flats may be my only exception to the rule here. Unless you live in flats or use them for urban commuting, then don't spend a lot. A black or nude leather pair, fine $150. Anything else that is colourful, embellished, or fun, $40. (I learned this lesson the hard way on $100 metallic silver embellished flats that shredded my heels. I no longer own them.)
Full Body
Suits are expensive. Well, well designed ones are at least. Suits are one thing that should require spending some decent money on, as a cheap suit just looks cheap. The fabric is terrible, the cut is terrible, and therefore the appearance and fit are terrible. When purchasing a suit, look for natural fabrics such as wool, linen, or cotton and/or blends. Spend $500-$1000, especially for men. Women have other attire options on occasions when men wear suits, so for a woman $500 is plenty. No more than $1000 is necessary and a fine suit you'll get for that price; that amount is quite the investment.
Dresses are also a garment that have to be considered for their use when spending money on them. A wrap style dress or A-line shift that flatters the figure and is in a neutral colour will serve you well and $150 is a fair price for this item. Save if it is a casual piece or is something that is trendy. Cheap evening gowns stick out like only cheap evening gowns can, as shiny obnoxious spectacles of cheap satin or spandex, with or without sequins. Ugh. When shopping for evening or formal wear, buy quality fabric in a shape that fits well, a colour that flatters, and tailor if you must. When dressing in this manner, elegance is your goal so spending at least $300-$400 is completely acceptable.
Exercise clothing. I have to mention this category for two reasons. 1: over-priced athletic gear and 2: it is not casual wear. If you exercise in any way, you know that you need clothing that performs specific functions like supporting your chest or wicking away sweat or moving with your body without moving out of position. This type of clothing requires spending enough to find what you're looking for and anything above that is a waste of money. $100 on a hoodie is a waste of money. $50 for a sports bra is definitely adequate. Refer to above on how much to spend on a t-shirt. If you're purchasing clothing made for exercising so you can run errands comfortably you're just either confused, being lazy, or deliberately inappropriate. Put on jeans and sneakers, not yoga pants and running shoes. You wouldn't go to the opposite end of the spectrum and wear your evening gown to buy groceries would you? If your answer is "No, that would look ridiculous!", well then consider that the opposite may also be true. That little silver circle on the back of your leg is not meant for the dry cleaners and the drug store, and your face of makeup tells me you didn't just do 60 minutes of spinning and change after.
Exercise clothing. I have to mention this category for two reasons. 1: over-priced athletic gear and 2: it is not casual wear. If you exercise in any way, you know that you need clothing that performs specific functions like supporting your chest or wicking away sweat or moving with your body without moving out of position. This type of clothing requires spending enough to find what you're looking for and anything above that is a waste of money. $100 on a hoodie is a waste of money. $50 for a sports bra is definitely adequate. Refer to above on how much to spend on a t-shirt. If you're purchasing clothing made for exercising so you can run errands comfortably you're just either confused, being lazy, or deliberately inappropriate. Put on jeans and sneakers, not yoga pants and running shoes. You wouldn't go to the opposite end of the spectrum and wear your evening gown to buy groceries would you? If your answer is "No, that would look ridiculous!", well then consider that the opposite may also be true. That little silver circle on the back of your leg is not meant for the dry cleaners and the drug store, and your face of makeup tells me you didn't just do 60 minutes of spinning and change after.
Casual wear. Meaning jogging pants and sweatshirts. These should be inexpensive. Sometimes these clothes are meant to leave the house whilst being worn. An acceptable occasion is running to the store for milk. Baby formula. Tylenol. You ran out of flour and are baking 100 cupcakes. So, little life emergencies when the last thing on your mind is your Bella Figura.
Etc.
Trends. Do not spend a lot on trends; this applies to clothing as well as accessories. Go to Forever 21 or H&M or Asos. Fast fashion stores continue to exist because they carry the latest trends so shop there when this is what you're looking to buy. Trends are meant to come and go and if you're trying something out to see how it looks on you, do not spend a lot of money. Remember, at some point you will probably be getting rid of what ever it is that you're buying, so you have to decide for yourself how much you're willing to basically throw away.
Accessories
Hats, scarves, gloves, statement necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and clutches. All of these items can be had at very low prices and this is definitely where you can save; $40 or less for costume jewelry and clutches. If you're buying costume jewelry to finish off one specific outfit spend the least amount possible. If you're buying a fedora to try out the style, save. Scarves and gloves are a save; you can find each for $50 or less. The only thing I can see spending a lot of money on is purchasing real jewelry or if you're buying a good quality cocktail ring. Clearly real jewelry is expensive and I can't put a price on that for anyone, but a good quality costume cocktail ring can be had for $150.
So, maybe these figures make me cheap. Frugal. Whatever. I think it's just common sense. Who doesn't love a good sale and who doesn't love NOT wasting money? Hopefully this proves that you don't have to spend a million to look like one, 'cause you don't ya' know.
Toodles,
Jess
Jess
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