It’s officially turtleneck season.
The summer dresses have most definitely been stashed away for another year, as we venture into the autumn and winter months.
When this time rolls around every year it’s only natural to want to update our wardrobes with cosy and stylish pieces for the chillier months ahead.
But, with the current cost of living crisis leaving most of the nation strapped for cash, splashing out on new winter garments isn’t an option for many this year.
If you want to reinvent your A/W wardrobe on a budget, a stylist has shared a few simple tricks for giving it a new lease of life, without breaking the bank.
Megan Watkins, the head stylist at SilkFred, has shared how to keep costs low this A/W when it comes to your clothes.
Repurpose your summer clothes
‘Although it may be tempting to separate your wardrobe into “summer” and “winter” sections, there are plenty of pieces that are transitional and timeless,’ explains Megan.
‘For example, a classic white shirt – perhaps used as a beach cover-up during summer – can be buttoned up and repurposed into a sleek everyday look’
Why not see if a summer dress or midi skirt works with tights and a jumper over the top?
Obviously, this won’t be the case for all of your summer wardrobe (we’re looking at you linen shorts) but see if you can get experimental with some of your existing pieces to create new looks.
Bag an end of season bargain
Bargain hunting often takes time, but it’s worth it for a brilliant deal – and end of season sales are often a treasure-trove of discounted goodies waiting to be uncovered.
It’s also a good opportunity to snap up investment pieces at lower prices.
‘It can be tedious going through pages of end of season sales so search for what will help you build a capsule autumn/winter wardrobe,’ says Megan.
‘I’d recommend a crisp white t-shirt, tailored trousers and a silk scarf you can tie as a chic neckerchief. Each item can work hard as separates.
‘There are some steals to be had in the end of season sales that are still doing the rounds. Therefore, if you are wanting to spend on some new items for the season, why not thank yourself later by investing in some cut price knitwear or a quilted jacket that will stand the test of time?’
Buy trend-led items second hand
If you want to indulge in some of the trends of the season, buying second-hand can be a great way to do this for less.
This way of shopping is better not only for your bank balance, but the environment, too.
Megan says: ‘Trend-led items don’t always stand the test of time so shopping somewhere like Vinted or eBay may be your best bet.
‘Another tip is heading to your local car boot sales. Often people may be getting rid of some unmissable items – often designer- such as trench coats, cable knit jumpers or bold vintage sweaters – meaning you can leave with a few bargains.’
Layer, layer, layer
Layering has been a popular trend for the past few years, but it’s also a great way to make summer items work all year round.
Megan adds: ‘Items like blazers and overshirts can work together to create an on-trend layered look, not to mention with this varying temperature you can simply remove an item if you’re too warm.
‘Everyone will have pieces that can achieve this trend in their wardrobe already, it’s just about trying multiple items to see what you like.
‘If you’re after the effortless Scandi look, reach for an oversized t-shirt or shirt and add one of your favourite jumpers on top ensuring you can see your layering item underneath.’
Choose your colour palette and stick to it
You’ve probably seen the ‘find your colours’ trend that’s doing the rounds on TikTok – a colour wheel technique that makes understanding which shades suit you a lot easier.
But this can be a good rule for making your wardrobe more cohesive, and ensuing that more things work well together.
Megan says: ‘It’s hard not to be swayed by the endless stream of new season goodness. Instead, it’s good to define a colour palette and stick to it. For instance if you already have a core item such as a navy coat, try to stick with browns and creams that will complement.
‘If you are wanting to inject a new colour, try opting for one statement shade that will complement your existing pieces, this could be something as simple as a lower priced item such as a scarf or cardigan to drape over your shoulders.’
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