As frustrating as it can be, some die-hard fashion lovers can’t afford to buy new threads whenever the wardrobe needs cheering up. But with a little imagination, you may be surprised how simple it is to bulk up your supply without adding a single new piece or spending a cent.

Turn your wardrobe into a Swiss Army wardrobe by following these tips and purchasing basic wardrobe staples, being creative with the items you already own and repurposing unwanted or old garments into something new and wearable.

Basics

Singlet tops are essential in my books for many reasons:

• Layering under and over things for warmth as well as multiple styling options.
• As an easy, cheap way to get multiple outfits out of the same bottoms.
• Add colour.
• Make a refreshing change from tees.
 
They are cheap, so stock up on at least three different colours. If you’re conscience about your stomach area, watch out for clinginess as cheap ones can be prone to shrinkage, best to go up a size. Snip the tag off when you get home if you don’t like the idea of being a 14 instead of a 12, but it’s better to buy something in a bigger size that you’ll actually wear than something tiny that you’re not comfortable in. Where to buy: Glassons have loads of different styles, sizes and colours. The Warehouse and Kookai have a great selection too.
 

A slip in either black or neutral/peach is a lifesaver. Sheer clothing is still very much on-trend in the fashion world so these will come in handy. If you’re game, plenty of cheap vintage slips can be found at op shops. Shoes and underwear are two things I simply cannot bring myself to buy second-hand however and sadly slips fall in to that category, I’m weird though so go for it. Static can be an issue as many slips are made of synthetic fibres, combat this with a small amount of fabric softener in the water next time it’s washed. Some slightly different looks using slips:

Jeans might not be every girl’s staple, but a decent pair of skinnies or flares will set you up for a multitude of outfits. Remember that heels are your friend (when they aren’t hurting like mad) and that both skinnies and flares (especially) will benefit from a pair.

How to wear flares:

• The slightly baggy, boyfriend look is fabulous with a great pair of heels and a feminine top.
• With a tucked blouse or crochet top
• Try a longer, tunic style with long sleeves, but be sure to pair it with heels as without them it can give the illusion of shorter legs.

Black ankle boots, with or without a heel, can be paired with just about anything. Dresses, tunics, jeans and minis all look fantastic. Depending on the style, they can often be worn all year round too. My pair of black Elizabeth and James booties is my fall-back when deciding on the right footwear (though I love them just as much as a first choice). Where to buy:  Number Ones Shoes, Mi Piaci

Neutral cardigans can be paired with just about anything. Wearing black with whites, creams and browns can be a harsh look: soften it up with a beige or grey cardi instead. The colour blocking trend works in well here, as a neutral cardi or blazer can help break up some coloured pants or a bright skirt. Some style suggestions with neutral cardigans and blazers:

Lace-up shoes, such as oxfords or a pair of low rise Converse make a fashionable change from ballet flats when heels aren’t on the menu. Mini dresses, jeans and even maxi dresses all look great with low, classy lace-ups. Team with a pair of ankle socks for a chic on-trend look. Watch out for: white, cream or other light colours, you’ll end up washing them more than you wear them! Brights, these shoes are going to be wardrobe staples remember, so try to minimise restrictions on the ability to wear them. Studs, sequins and other things that are likely to fall off. Flatforms, they may look cool and give you some height, but they are a trend and one that isn’t likely to be around for much more than a season.

- Sarah Smith
www.therationaldresser.com