Here Are Nine Ways I Made My Wardrobe Look A Lot More Expensive While On A Budget

Fashion doesn't always require a ton of funds, and these nine tips will help you have a whole new wardrobe...without the bill.

Hey y'all, Jamé here! At the start of the new year, we may be tempted to go out and get a whole new wardrobe to accompany our "new year, new me" mindset. But if you don't have the coins for a complete overhaul, here are nine simple ways to punch up your wardrobe as it is.

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1. First of all, consider ditching any clothes you haven't worn in years. No excuses, no hypotheticals, nada. Let's get rid of the old so you can welcome in the new!

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Girl, do you really need EVERYTHING in your closet? Probably not. Take a weekend and go through your closet and pull out whatever you haven't worn for a while. Shirt too small? Out. Pants out of style and you never even wore them in the first place? Bye!

Don't worry, you don't need to throw your clothes away (in fact, please don't). Instead, consider donating them or making some money by selling them. If you need tips on how to do that, check it out here.

2. Master the art of layering to maximize what you already own throughout the year.

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Layering is a skill that, once you master, will instantly expand your style options! Those shorts you only wear in the summer? Throw some tights on underneath for an extra layer of warmth for fall and winter! Or that outfit you love but it seems everyone's already seen it? Throw on a blazer or piece of outerwear that instantly makes it look brand new!

Pro tip: Experiment with various types of outerwear, sweaters, and cardigans, tapping into different texture, cuts, and colors.

Get a double-breasted blazer (like the one I've got on) from Forever 21 for $34.90.

3. Revamp your existing wardrobe: Have long skirts hemmed into midi skirts, apply floral appliqués onto old jackets, or just find a way to add a bit of glitz to your favorite pieces.

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If you're someone who loves a good DIY project, get crafty with what you've already got! Grab a pair of scissors and experiment with cuts and adjustments, or take a needle and thread and give it a quick tailor. Also, embellishments never hurt anyone.

Pro tip: Use pieces like a lint roller, steamer, and fabric shaver to spruce up what you already have and make it look like new again.

4. If you absolutely have to add a few items to your wardrobe, consider thrifting where you can find name brand clothes at discounted prices!

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I know that thrifting can feel daunting for first timers, especially when you're not used to searching through aisles to find style gems. Shake your nerves off and open up your mind when you walk in, looking at opportunities to workshop and DIY something! I've been thrifting for YEARS, and there's no better feeling than finding something you'd see at Zara, H&M, or ASOS for a fraction of the price. BTW, everything I have on in this photo is thrifted!

Pro tip: If you're absolutely overwhelmed, make it a date with your best friends. Sometimes all you need are a few good laughs to relax you and step out of your comfort zone.

5. Invest in a capsule collection: the items — usually neutrals — you can wear with a ton of things in your closet.

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A capsule collection allows you to mix and match all of your outfits, taking the stress out of fashion and your fashion choices. Still go for the trendy items every once in a while, but building a strong foundation of neutrals will help tremendously (and seriously cut down on your morning 'what will I wear?' thoughts.) To read about one of our editor's experiences with a capsule collection, check it out here.

6. Find opportunities to wear the same item different ways.

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Don't feel limited wearing something exactly as it comes in the packaging. Roll up the sleeves, tie the hemline, wear it backwards, whatever makes you happy! You'd be surprised by how much more you can get out of your wardrobe simply by thinking outside-of-the-box with how something can be worn.

7. Create Pinterest-worthy mood boards for constant style inspiration on new ways you can optimize things like a white tee, a statement skirt, or even those pants you can't get enough of.

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Pinterest is an amazing way to stay inspired, especially when it comes to clothes. You may see something on Pinterest that gives you a fresh way to coordinate that one top you have with those joggers you never wear.

Pro tip: If you're looking for ways to wear a specific item, search the item on Pinterest and add the word "outfit."

8. Swap items that you don't want or can't wear anymore with your friends! You never know how something as simple as that coveted necklace or those enviable leather pants can immediately make you feel more stylish.

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One man's trash is another man's treasure, and you can absolutely find gold hidden in the bottom of your bestie's closet. Consider doing a swap party, filled with music, food, and of course, amazing clothes.

9. And lastly, focus on shoes and accessories to instantly elevate even your simplest outfits.

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A white tee and a pair of black jeans may appear boring or bland, but with the right statement-making necklace or purse in a pop of color, you can instantly elevate your look to be chic and modern. Again, it's all about experimenting, pushing yourself out of your routine, and finding new ways to bring life into what you've got.

Do you guys have tips on how to revamp your wardrobe? Let us know in the comments below!