Fall is upon us and its time for fashionistas to prepare for new trends. This means cashmere sweaters, tweed trousers and fantastic boots. Thinking of all the new fall fashions, and the necessary budget probably has you wondering whats the smartest way to get what you want. Fear not stylistas, with three simple tips you'll be ready to shop smarter and look fab when the brisk fall air finds it's way to your fair city.

Tip #1: Get in your closet! Pick a Saturday and clean it out, but only throw away the truly trash-worthy. Keep the basics that you know will transition nicely to cooler weather. Cotton tees, lace camis, light cardigans and fitted denim are all essential basics that will get plenty of use come fall and winter. Spring and summer dresses can take up temporary residence in the back of the closet - time to retire anything with pastel colors and bright flowers. Fall is going to bring deep gem tones and the ever famous black/white combo is making a fierce comeback. Make some space, you'll need it! While you're at it, get rid of any flats and/or sandals that have had their fair share of walking...its the season of the bootie and over-the-knee boots. But, make sure to keep a couple pair of flats, they are the perfect alternative when you aren't in the mood for heels. Finally, make some room for scarves. They made a cameo late last season and they are back for round two. Black, gray and cream are must have colors, but keep your eyes peeled for dark purples and reds...they look amazing with hounds tooth! Once you finish the grand closet cleanse, evaluate the inventory. Know what you have and make a list of what you need. Remember, the goal is to shop smart so only list the essential items that you'll need for fall...and a couple items that you are totally lusting over. Whats a shopping trip without a splurge item or two?
Tip #2: Set aside a seperate budget for all things fashion. Before you hit the store to buy the $270 McQ sweater, make sure you can pay the bill! Nothing is worse that buyer's remorse and with all the great new trends about to hit shopping with caution will be difficult. Have an honest look at your funds and set aside a special budget for clothes, shoes and all other fashion musts. Contribute a little cash every paycheck and you'll have some extra spending money for your fashion wish list. Once you have a decent "nest egg", try to make it last until after Christmas. That's when the sales are at their best! In the meantime, you shouldn't need too many new things since you can ask Santa for some help. Plus, the trends will likely take a shift in early February and you'll want to make sure your cards are armed and chargable when you start eying your faves.
Tip #3: Before you buy uber trendy at full price, consider the alternatives. Yes, of course its ideal to tell everyone that you're wearing Louboutin's, but are a super trendy pair of bondage booties really worth the $1200 price tag? If you want to have a full fall wardrobe, the answer is no! There is nothing wrong with buying the high-fashion items, just make sure you can wear them more than three times...in your life! Booties, liquid leggings and fringe are great examples of trends with a limited life span. They are totally hot for a while but then they fade and get tagged "vintage". Before you spend your entire budget on exclusive items like these, shop around! You are going to find more budget-friendly alternatives and get back some room to spend. Save your spluring for items that have staying power like a leather jacket, black patent pumps and the perfect little black dress. These items will be staples to your wardrobe and worth the investment if they fit properly. Nothing is better than a jacket that makes you feel fierce and a pair of pumps that really work the booty.
So there you have it, three simple tips that will get you ready to shift gears into fall. Stay tuned for upcoming fall fashion reports with key pieces for a fabulous wardrobe, all the amazing sales and the top 5 picks for the week.
Now, treat the street like your runway and work it!
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