Since I began blogging, a good deal of the questions I get from readers are about fashion. The funny thing is, I can barely count the names of designers I’m familiar with on one hand!

While I may not exactly be a “fashionista,” I do have a personal sense of style that is constantly changing. Because of that, I’ve found that spending an arm and a leg on clothing just isn’t worth it to me. I also don’t care much when it comes to buying name brands, so I’ve kind of naturally evolved into a bargain-hunter. And, well, who doesn’t love a good bargain?

So here are my 10 ways to rock a fashionable wardrobe without breaking the bank.

10 Ways: Be a Bargainista

1. Begin at the hot spots.
99.9% of the time, the clothing you want can be found at the following stores: H&M, Forever 21, TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, Ross, and Target. START. THERE! Most of the time these stores are getting their cues directly from designers (especially H&M and Forever 21) so you literally could come away with the exact trend you’re looking for. If right now you’re thinking, “but I don’t want fake designer clothes,” well…then you’re listening to the wrong person 😛

2. Thrift it.
I love love LOVE me a good thrift store. These days it’s almost more fashionable to say that something is “vintage,” so why not roll with it?! Thrift stores are getting better and better these days too. Stores like Buffalo Exchange and Plato’s Closet are pretty strict when it comes to letting stylish clothes get on their hangers, so you’ll most likely get lucky there. Also, if you’re good with sewing/etc., you could always take clothes you buy at thrift stores and alter them into entirely new pieces.

3. Know when to “indulge.”
There are always going to be a few items that are worth shelling out the full price for. Some of them include: the perfect LBD, a timeless pair of jeans, comfortable stilettos, and business attire that you’ll wear for at least a few years. Depending on your lifestyle and “obsessions,” that list might include a leather handbag or Chanel sunglasses. I get it. But when it comes to trends or clothes that you can easily find elsewhere for half the price, err on the inexpensive side.

4. Put money aside.
If you put aside $20 or so each week strictly for buying clothes, you can get at least a couple of items at the end of the month. And if you decide you do want to indulge in something, go the old-fashioned route and just save up! (because, if you’re going to take the leap and buy an expensive piece, at least avoid going in debt in the process). By having money set aside designated for clothes, going shopping won’t always feel like you’re doing something you shouldn’t be.

5. Pick versatile pieces.
This is one of my favorite points. Look for clothes that be worn in many different ways. For example, get a sundress that can be worn during the day, but with the addition of a belt, wedges, and a sweater can be transformed into an outfit perfect for a night out on the town. Or – a blazer that can be worn with dress pants to work but then over a sequin dress for an evening event. Versatile pieces allow you to get more bang for your buck out of your wardrobe.

6. When in doubt, don’t buy it.
To me, it’s really that simple. I’ve found that when I have to try to talk myself into buying something, I don’t really want it all that much anyway, and I sure as heck don’t need it.

7. Shop off-season.
This can be a tough one because trends are always changing, but shopping off-season is the best way to get some of your must-haves for a much lower price. For example, shop for a new trench coat at the end of winter, and grab next summer’s swimsuit at the end of August. Stores are always trying to get rid of the seasonal items, so you’re almost guaranteed to get a deal.

8. Bring a friend.
If you’re anything like me, it’s much easier to talk yourself into buying something when you’re by yourself. Having a friend around, though, allows you to talk it out. Do I really need this top? Am I ever going to actually wear it? If you have someone that can act as your voice of reason, you’ll be less likely to shell out your entire paycheck on that designer scarf.

9. Share with friends.
We all have those days where we look in our closet and say, “OMG I have like, NO clothes.” Instead of using that as an excuse to give yourself a shopping spree, ask a (fashionable) friend if you can raid her closet. If you can lay out some ground rules that you both agree on, you’ve got yourself quite a great, double-the-wardrobe resource going on.

10. Be unique.
Remember in high school when everyone HAD to have a Coach or Dooney & Bourke handbag? Or when everyone and their mother (literally) was/is wearing Uggs? I understand that there are going to be trends (trust me, I love a good trend), but why shell out hundred of dollars to look just like everyone else? Instead of trying to be noticed for how expensive your clothes/accessories are, focus on standing out because you have a unique, sassy sense of style!

Which of these tips do you agree with/follow the most?
What bargainista tip would you add to this list?