I recently scored an authentic Prada suede handbag at a vintage store for less than the price of a trip to Starbucks. It was the find of the year!
The original receipt of sale and authentication documents were tucked in a small inside zipper pocket. And, when I spied the original cost, it gave me pause.
Naturally, I love impeccable craftsmanship, attention to detail, and high quality materials. And, this bag had all three in spades.
But, who can afford a whole closet full of designer pieces? Certainly not me. So, most of the time, I just fake it.
No – I do not mean the cheap knockoffs you can find on any street corner in the city. I simply find a style I adore on the runway or in a magazine and then find a reasonably similar piece – at a fraction of the cost.
It’s an incredibly effective strategy, although it does take a bit of time to research each piece. But, it’s well worth the effort!
For example, the other day I received several compliments on my outfit. And, I chuckled to myself, knowing that from top to bottom, the entire ensemble cost less than a dinner out.
This season, however, I will have to work even harder, because my must-have list is longer than usual. Heading back into the office, rather than telecommuting, has quickly made me realize how woefully inadequate my wardrobe really is. So, I have been scoping out the sales, working the coupons, and slowly adding one budget friendly fashion piece at a time.
And, I’ve shared some of my favorites, above. Of course, each “splurge” would be a lovely treat. But, why buy only one piece when you can bring home multiple “steals?”
My Prada bag aside, I have had a few other lucky finds such as an authenticated Hermès silk scarf for $1 and a gold plated “muff chain” from the 1870s for a mere 50 cents.
Have you had any incredibly budget friendly fashion finds, either vintage or simply massive store markdowns? I would love to hear about them!
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DISCLAIMER: No financial compensation was received in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers. And, budget friendly fashion is at the top of that list!
BUDGET FRIENDLY FASHION PHOTO: Used with permission. Collage created using Polyvore.
Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.com, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion, handbags, jewelry and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and gardening tips, stunning interior design, plus the latest products and ideas for chic parties, weddings and events of all kinds, you’ll find it here. Editor Susan Conforte McNeill is an author and entrepreneur, as well as the co-founder of the Delaware based literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!