Book Review-- How to be a Budget Fashionista:The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less

A few days ago I posted my tips and tricks for budget shopping. I thought I'd do a little review on the book that taught me so much of what I know! Not only is this book a great resource for the majority of us--the ones who don't have money trees in the backyard or other seemingly endless sources of income--but for anyone who is simply interested in fashion and paying less for the same great pieces! Why pay more for something if you don't have to?! "No no! I know it's only $5, but here, take $50!". Hahaha yea right! When you can do that please let me know; i'd like to know your secret!


How to be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney is a quick read and a lasting guide. Only 240 pages long you could read it in one sitting and be done with it, but that's really not the point. Kathryn breaks the process down into 3 steps and then goes into detail on each.

1. Know your budget- Here you'll find tips on budgeting and funding a wardrobe without going broke or into debt. Nice right? There are also online budgeting resources at the end of the book to help you out! 
2. Know your style- This section has tips and tricks for every aspect of your wardrobe--from undergarments to beauty. You'll also find lists of essentials, fun quizzes and info on how to take a closet inventory and make your current wardrobe work for you!
3. Know your Bargains- Here we go! This section will let you in on the secrets of the budget fashionista. I could list what this section covers but where's the fun in that? All I'll say is that this section is very very interesting and will arm you with everything you need to make your next shopping adventure a success. Your wallet will thank you too!

In addition to all of the amazing tips and tricks I have mentioned above, you'll get a mini-guide to caring for clothes and links to online budget resources! This book is an overall great read and shopping companion! 

How to be a budget fashionista

Don't you wish being fabulously fashionable would just cost less? Lucky for us...it can! Here are a few tips and tricks that will get you on your way to becoming a true budget fashionista!

1. Discount Designer

There are a few ways to go about this:

• The recent recession influenced alot of designers to create cheaper lines for major department stores such as Macy's and Target. Though the quality won't match their more expensive lines, the pieces are fashion forward and affordable
• Of course, you can also check out your favourite designer's collections during a sale! Though the pieces are still expensive, they are less expensive than when they are regular price
• BEST BET: High end department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Holt Renfrew have last call stores. Here you can find high end designer labels for up to 80% off. It takes awhile to look around but this is a great choice for handbags, shoes, evening gowns...anything really! My personal victory involves a pair of Manolo Blahnik pumps: $750 for $170. It was a good day!

2. Clearance and Sales

When you hit to your favourite stores, head to the back; that's usually where the clearance and sale racks are

 3. Shop online to compare prices

I'm not suggesting buying online (though there are some great deals out there) because personally I like to try things on, but shopping online is a great way to compare prices and decide which stores you'd like to check out when you head to the mall.

 4. Consignment and vintage

Consignment and vintage stores are excellent resources! You can find designer pieces for alot less than regular price. Some pieces are called classics for a reason: They never go out of style!

5. Use your wardrobe to its full potential

Wanna know the best way to save money? Not spending it! Take a wardrobe inventory every now and then. Accessories like scarves can be worn many different ways. Dresses can hop seasons with the addition of leggings, tights or the right shoes. Look at every piece and think of all the ways you can use it! Check out the one item--three looks section for some ideas!

 6. Shop between seasons

Not only is this the perfect sale time, but you can snag some awesome transitional pieces. These pieces can work for multiple seasons