We’d all love to have a new Versace suit or Louis Vuitton dress to wear every week, but unfortunately for many of us, financial constraints mean that that’s not an option. But even if we can’t indulge in high fashion, there are plenty of ways to dress-to-impress on a budget, without emptying your bank account.

Here’s what to do.

Wear More Black

Research shows that people associate the color black with style, sophistication and wealth. People are more likely to perceive you as an intelligent, professional person if you wear a black dress, boots, blouse or blazer.

Some of the biggest brands in the world, like Coco Chanel, use black to enhance the appeal of their products, and you can do the same too. Go with solid black where possible and avoid patterns.

Carry A Structured Bag

Go to any posh department store, and you’ll find dozens of designer bags on show with designer price tags to match. But, in reality, there’s no need to buy an expensive label: you can get that “structured bag” look for a fraction of the price from a generic or “own-brand.” Structured bags completes your look, making you appear highly fashionable and well-to-do, giving you a finished look.

Don’t Buy Flawless Jewelry

As this guide to VSS diamonds points out, not all precious stones are the same. Although a small proportion of gems are considered “flawless,” the vast majority have what are known as micro-inclusions, or little imperfections in the stone.

Yes, flawed diamonds are less expensive than flawless, but the funny thing is that you can’t really tell the difference between the two with the naked eye. To see most flaws, you need a microscope, and so this isn’t the sort of thing that people will notice when you’re out and about. They will, however, compliment you on the beauty of your diamond ring.

Wear Sunglasses

Celebs love to wear sunglasses. It helps them keep their anonymity while in public, preventing screaming fans from mobbing them in the grocery store. But because celebrities wear sunglasses so often, they’ve become a symbol of wealth and success in themselves. Now people have noticed, and have begun wearing them as a matter of course.

If possible, try to find discount designer sunglasses at charity shops or discount stores.

Keep Yourself Presentable

If you have limited resources but want to dress-to-impress, then doing the simple things can make a big difference.

• Try wearing lip color to emphasize your natural beauty
• Keep your nails trimmed and tidy at all times, using paint if you need
• Moisturize and exfoliate your skin and develop a skin care routine
• Keep your hair tidy and in a beautiful style that complements your face shape

Coordinate Accessories

Finally, it’s worth making sure that all your accessories are coordinated. Bag and shoes, sunglasses and hat, belt and necklace: they should all work seamlessly together. Accessories that don’t match can look at little slapdash, ruining the overall appearance of your outfit.

So what do you think? Will you use any of these ideas to dress-to-impress on a budget?

Remember... no matter what challenges you face,
Take it 1 Day At A Time.