Great Outfits Don’t Have To Be Expensive

There is a pervasive idea that great looking outfits must be expensive. Fashionable brands that are so often held in high regard generally sit at the higher end of the pricing spectrum since you are not only paying for their creative designs but also the association of quality that their reputation alludes to. And, while it is true that certain brands build such a reputation through consistent quality, this does not mean that all quality clothing must be expensive. In fact, we can easily learn to create our own great quality clothing, and with much lower costs too.

It is important to point out that fast fashion has caused significant issues with pricing perception. As the high street is flooded with all-too competitively priced clothing, that is typically abhorrent in quality and manufactured in faraway countries, we become misled, perceiving these low-cost alternatives to be the standard. This is, in fact, not true. The average price has been skewered and for reasonable quality and environmentally sustainable production, we should be expected to pay, on average, more than fast fashion might lead us to believe.

That aside, however, there are many ways our wardrobes can become more affordable without compromising quality, sustainability, or creative flair. The main method of accomplishing this dream wardrobe is DIY clothing.

Matters In Your Own Hands

Creating your own clothing is a remarkably rewarding pursuit, one that allows you to create the outfits you truly want to wear, without compromise and at a much lower cost. Raw materials can be sourced at a low cost and the equipment required to get started, such as a sewing machine, are only an initial investment that eventually brings a significant return.

To save even more money on basic materials, second-hand clothing can be used. Upcycling old clothes brings your starting costs right down, especially since you can often source damaged clothing for free, items that are nonetheless useful to practice with. They also have the additional benefit of preventing clothing waste (a pertinent and ongoing problem associated with fast fashion) helping every item of clothing you create to have the feel-good association of being truly environmentally friendly.

Building Your Skill

The major hurdle that prevents people from creating their own clothing is developing the skill to do so. As you start out, you might be deterred from continuing, especially when your attempt at a Gucci style outfit falls short. And, while you must push through and embrace this learning curve, you should also be sure to take small steps, practising with accessories and smaller, simpler clothing items first.

Another major hurdle is time. As with many scenarios in life, the trade is either to spend time or money. While creating your own clothing saves a vast amount of money, it will take more time. This, however, is a cost often outweighed by the satisfaction that comes with developing a new skill and creating something with your own hands. Plus, you’ll altogether forget any hours put into an outfit you’ve made when it receives a compliment from someone else!

So, before you decide to spend money on your ideal outfit, be sure to consider the alternatives. Once you give DIY clothing a trial, you might find yourself happier with your wardrobe than ever before.