How To Look Street Chic On A Budget
I think it’s safe to say that if we could look chic and put together at all times, we would. At this point in the pandemic, sweatpants have become a staple piece in most of our wardrobes. What if I told you that you can still wear your sweatpants a look street chic? Welcome to 2020 where basic sweat suits are the new power suit. Looking chic isn’t always the most affordable, but when it comes to street chic there is a lot of room for interpretation and even more shopping destinations to get your look for less.
1. Quick! Call Pinterest!
Pinterest is the hub of pretty much everything and a great place to start when trying to get a grasp on the kind of look you’re going for. Street chic is effortless while still having a cool and hip element to it. If there is a certain piece you want to incorperate into your look, you can easily search it on Pinterest. Pinterest is also a great place to explore different styles and ideas. When creating these outfits you can easily shop your own closet as well.
2. Thrift First
Switching up your style or even just experimenting with a new outfit can be a daunting task. After scrolling through Pinterest and finding great inspo, don’t break your bank to buy that $300 All Saints jacket. Try Savers or Goodwill first. When you walk into a thrift store, it can be a bit overwhelming. Always go in with a game plan and be open to looking at different departments other than womens. You can never go wrong with mens jeans and graphic tees. Even sift through the lingerie section ! You never know what you might find. Thrifting is easy, affordable, and everyone has access to it. Plus, you can find some amazing gems from the thrift stores. Try local consignment stores for vintage or even designer pieces. Pro tip: If you have a difficult time in traditional thrift stores, consider looking at an online source such as Depop, Poshmark, Ebay and Thread Up.
3. Basics Basics Basics
A staple rule to looking chic is elevated basics. They aren’t the most exciting things to look for and spend money on, but basics are going to give you the most versatility with your outfits. Staple pieces like simple white tees, ribbed black turtles necks, and clean white sneakers will be the perfect base to build your outfits off of. When rebuilding your closet start off with your basics like white t’s and well-fitting jeans and trousers. There is something so underrated about a classic pair of levis, white shirt, and gold jewelry. Plus, places like H&M, Target and Forever 21 have a large selection of basics that are both size inclusive and affordable.
4. Did you say Monochromatic?
An easy way to look street chic is with a monochromatic look. Some may hate on the all black uniform, but have they ever tried camel? There is something so cool and eye catching about a monochrome look especially when it’s a fun color like baby blue, sage green or even a neon yellow. Creating a monochromatic look is easier than you think once you have your color selected. Pick your main piece that you want to build off of and go from there. Playing with texture and sometimes even a pattern will help add interest and dimension to the look. Remember that not all the pieces need to be the exact same shade. Having varying shades helps break up the outfit a bit more!
5. Clothing Swap
Consider having a clothing swap with a group of friends that have contrasting styles to yours. This way you can incorporate new pieces into your closest that you may not have considered trying. The biggest bonus is that it’s free. Incorporate new pieces into my wardrobe for free? Yes please! Plus its great for the environment, risk free, and an excuse to get together with your girlfriends. It may seem like a weird idea at first, but you may get some really interesting things to work from. Shopping your own closet or even someone else’s to recreate those Pinterest looks will give you a more unique and well rounded look.
6. Steam Queen
It’s never too early to become a domestic goddess and nothing is worse that wrinkly pants. Pro tip to looking chic is to have well fitting and wrinkle free outfits. Once you begin to steam or iron your clothing, it instantly elevates the pieces making you look more polished. Nothing says street chic like a streamlined sweatsuit and coat. Hop on amazon and find yourself a hand held steamer. I promise you that it will change your life for the better.
7. Accessories Experiment
Accessories are NECESSARY to put the finishing touches on any look. Styling can make or break any look like they say on Project Runway. There is something so underrated about a classic chain necklace and hoop earrings. Wearing simple classic jewelry is a great way to elevate your street chic look. Adding cool sun glasses or a funky thrifted bag is what takes your polished look from an 8 to a 10. Try and get experimental with hair pieces, textures and color to add more interest and dimension to the outfit.
Don’t be too overwhelmed when switching up your style. Fashion is for taking risks and adventuring outside of your comfort zone. You can still look chic while being comfortable and even save a couple of bucks while doing it. Don’t get too caught up on the matchy matchy of everything. Experimenting with fashion is what makes fashion so fun. Remember to work and build off of your basic pieces. They are going to get you a long way. Also, don’t forget about having fun with your accessories! Adding a cool pair of sunnies, a statement belt, or even a colorful bag will elevate your looks more than you think. Get creative and go for it!
