How To Look Stylish On A Budget | Cold Weather Edition

Okay so (mostly) everyone has a budget when it comes to fashion, and however much the budget can vary, there are still some essentials we all keep in mind - and that's where the magic lies.  Those few, classic pieces that renew and spruce up a wardrobe. Allocate your budget wisely and shop in the right places, and you can look as though you've got your sh*t together on a daily basis.  Oh, a girl can dream!  With these colder months in mind, there are a few must-haves for your wardrobe and must-dos for your beauty regime to ensure you look as stylish as possible, regardless of your budget...

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I F   T H E   S H O E   F I T S . . . 

First and foremost, footwear.  Speaking as a girl who loves period dramas set long ago in the past, I've lost count of how many times I've heard mentioned the importance of footwear.  Supposedly, they're an indication of how well you take care of yourself.  So, if you're aiming for 'chic' and 'stylish', this is definitely the first place to turn your attention.  One option is sprucing up your current footwear collection with a little TLC.  Another option is looking around for irresistible  reductions, such as the Steve Madden boots I'm wearing in this shoot; found with 70% off their original price via TKMaxx!  Can you believe both this dress and boots were purchased from there and for less than £50 in total?!  

D I A M O N D S   A R E   A   G I R L ' S   B E S T   F R I E N D

Along with every other pretty piece of jewellery on the planet; and it doesn't need to cost the Earth.  I'll admit it, I'm a magpie.  I'm attracted to all things shiny and so it can be difficult limiting myself when it comes to purchasing new jewellery.  There are all kinds of sums and ratios that apply to buying engagement rings, but what about regular ole' jewellery?  My advice would be to weigh up what style you wear most often (necklace vs. bracelet vs. ring), with what's trending this season.  Spend only what you feel comfortable with and pick a classic style and metal option that you're likely to reach for every single day.  The cost-per-wear will drop down rapidly!

H A I R   I S   A N   I D E A . . .

Time for a trim.  Or maybe a dye.  Or maybe just a blow dry.  Whatever you opt for, it can only bump up your style points for the season.  It's only been within the past few years that I've realised the importance of snipping away those split ends.  Eek!

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L A Y E R   U P !

Oof, I could talk about coats all day long.  Seriously.  Considering our cold weather outfits are covered by coats 99% of the time, it's truly worth investing in a classic design that you're unlikely to tire of before the warmer weather returns.  If you're wondering where to allocate most of your budget this season, look no further...

F E E L I N G   N E U T R A L

As you may have noticed, lately I've been adding plenty of neutrals to my wardrobe (including snakeskin dresses, patterned midi skirts and leopard print dresses), and why?  Because they look crazy chic!  They're also the quickest way to looking put together on a daily basis, without a lot of hassle, or a booming budget.     

Psst!  Take a peek at my Currently Coveting section right now; it's filled with neutral beauties!    

B E A U T Y   A N D   T H E   B E A S T

Anyone else get unnecessarily excited as soon as beauty is mentioned?  Personally, I'm all about those nuuuuudes.  Whether you're painting your own nails or heading out for manicures, nude shades will last longer thanks to their ability to hide chips.  When it comes to makeup, you're in luck if you're all about that glow, because it seems as though it's never been easier to look chic these days thanks to a swish of nude lipstick, flick of mascara and warm, neutral tones across the face.  Heaven.   

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Dress - Innocence c/o TKMaxx

(take a peek at their other dresses this season - there are tons of gems!)

Boots - Steve Madden c/o TKMaxx

Necklaces - Chlobo Zodiac Pendants

Bag - Ralph Lauren

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Looking for ways to look stylish on a budget is one of the most exciting aspects of fashion; it encourages you to get creative.  Speaking of which, I still can't get over how this look (featuring both dress and ankle boots) were picked up via TKMaxx for less than £50... in total! I'd love to hear your tips for looking stylish on a budget?  Let me know in the comments below!

Liked this post?  You might also enjoy >> 10 Ways To Wear Leopard Print This Autumn

With love,

Gabrielle x

Thanks to TKMaxx for working with me on this post!