Budget for Cool Weather Essentials

Ballin’ on a budget: Get your fall and winter wardrobe essentials without breaking the bank

As the sun sets on the hottest season, both literally and figuratively, it’s time to get ourselves ready for the cool weather! Blanket scarves, tweed coats, heeled booties… Fall is a trendsetter’s dream with all the styling options available. And while sometimes it might seem like getting your cool weather essentials has to break the bank, a savvy fashionista knows that a budget is the perfect shopping tool to help you decide when to save and when to splurge. If you haven’t quite put together your budget yet, no worries! Keep reading for a few handy tips to keep you looking hot, even when the temperature starts to drop.

1. Determine Your Must-Haves

Your Fall essentials might vary a little depending on taste and style but for most of us, a decent coat and jacket, a pair of neutral, go-to boots, comfy leggings and a couple cardigans will make up the basis of our cold weather wardrobe. At least 50% of your budget should be spent on your must-haves and they should be good quality so they not only keep you warm, but they last multiple seasons, too!

2. Revisit your current wardrobe

Increase your budget by determining which items that you already own can be carried into this season, and increase your closet space by throwing out or donating items you’ve never worn!

3. Figure out your “splurging capacity”
   You probably have some set expenses every month already, so use those numbers to determine how much “extra” you have to make some “non-essential” purchases, as well (After all, fashion is no fun with just basics!) Your splurges should be those items that you come across that give you that instant “heart-eyes-just-gotta-have-it” feeling.
4. Online shopping is your friend

Often you can get some killer deals online (better than in store!) so that helps you save a few of your coins. And even if you are the “have-to-try-on-in-store” type, then use online stores as a resource to compare prices to make sure you get the best deal!