Photo by When you think of the word chic, you probably think of designer brands and sophistication. You think of black and white photos of Hollywood glamour goddesses. You think of pouty lips covered in glossy color, and you think of slick-styled hair and Bently automobiles. You could go on because chic has been around for a while. Even though being chic does require a certain level of creative sophistication, it does not necessitate blowing your budget on designer labels. Here are 5 tips for looking chic, even when your budget is tight.
1. Chic With a Wrap
What is chic? Chic is relaxing outdoors during the fall with a beautiful woven wrap with a simple design hugging your shoulders and keeping you warm as you sip your latte and enjoy the sun setting over the water. The moment is chic, and at that moment you look fabulous. To recreate the look you could buy the ever popular fleece fabric. Fleece fabric comes in a variety of styles at affordable prices to recreate those romantic moments, but on a budget. The point is, appearance is everything–even when it’s faux.
2. Skip Out On Trendy
Styles change with the seasons. Not many people can actually afford to keep up with all the latest trends. Besides, trendy is fleeting, while chic is classy. Classy doesn’t come and go with the seasons. It’s here to stay. What you need to do is choose your wardrobe wisely. Sure, invest in pricier pieces, but build up your wardrobe slowly with pieces that will stand the test of time. Think of Meghan Markle. Her outfits look good on her today, but in ten years, those same pieces will still look stunning. And all she has to do is twist her hair in a knot and she’s good to go.
3. Be Monochrome
Nothing states sophistication like simple black and white or understated neutrals. When your wardrobe is monochrome, it’s also easier to mix and match, and when you mix and match, your wardrobe appears much larger to friends, coworkers, and onlookers than it actually is.
As an example, a simple white button-up can be worn under different jackets, it can be worn as a jacket over a tank, or it can dress up a pair of jeans. Your significant other’s white button-up makes for sexy lingerie. Chic is simple sophistication.
4. Shop Second Hand
Look for those time-tested styles at second-hand stores, such as thrift stores, your local Goodwill, and even upscale consignment outlets. The best brands are made from quality stitching, and they were made to last. No one will ever know you purchased it unless you tell them because that’s how chic you really are. After all, thrift-store chic is nothing to scoff at.
5. Don’t Overdo Anything
From your hair to your nails, each piece of your chic look should be simple, classy, and elegant. Chic is about effortlessly playing up your best assets. Because everyone is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to your individual approach. If you have pretty, slender fingers, play them up with a dash of red. If your hair is straight and jet black, make it stand out with an off-white beret. What chic is not is overdone. Don’t overdo your makeup, don’t overdo your hair, don’t overdo your color choices, and don’t try to fit into clothing that is 2 sizes too small. Chic is comfortable in the space you create.
Conclusion
Chic stands the test of time, and while many of the suggestions here are timeless, there are a host of other fashion tricks at your disposal for developing a look that is chic and classic. Take what you can use and create a recipe. Take some time to develop that recipe, because on a budget it won’t happen in a day, but maybe next year, if your recipe works, you will be the definition of chic to all your family, friends, and acquaintances.