This post is sponsored by Simon for compensation and/or other consideration. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Packing my closet is one of my favorite things to do when I move. I love to donate pieces that no longer fit my style and do a “wardrobe refresh” for the new place. My recent move was a little different, however…it wasn’t enjoyable! I had a sinking realization that I disliked almost everything in my closet. I INSTANTLY knew that it was time for a good wardrobe upgrade.
How Do You Upgrade Your Wardrobe on a Budget?
Luckily, there are lots of ways to upgrade our wardrobes on a budget. On the list of affordable places that I love to shop, outlet malls are my top choice. Since moving to Texas, I’ve been going to one in particular, Allen Premium Outlets, over and over again. I’m always shopping for business casual staples that can also be everyday wear and I never leave this outlet disappointed. The prices cannot be beat and you’ll easily spend an entire day roaming the store selections.
What to Know About Allen Premium Outlets
In case you’ve never heard of Allen Premium Outlets, let me give you a little background information! The outlet is located in Allen, Texas as Dallas Fort-Worth’s premier outlet shopping destination. It is HUGE and full of gems like Tory Burch, The North Face, Cole Haan, and more all at outlet prices so be sure to wear your walking shoes.
There’s also a very nice food area as well as restaurants near the outlet so your whole day is set without going far. For more details including center hours and hotels near the shopping center, it is all listed here on the Allen Premium Outlets website. Now let’s get into 4 easy ways that you can upgrade your wardrobe on a budget and how I was able to do this at the outlet.
Upgrade Your Basics
Whether on a budget or not, the best place to start is to upgrade your go-to basics that can be mixed and matched with everything. Think solid-color pants, t-shirts, sweaters, even shoes. I love to shop my affordable basics from places like H&M.
During my outlet shopping day, I was able to find this entire outfit for under $100; the pants and vest can be mixed and matched all year long! I also found solid black pumps from Cole Haan for under $100 that will not only wow my coworkers, but will match any outfit that I choose to wear that day. Score!
Find Styles that Flatter Your Body Type
Knowing the styles that fit your body type is a huge game changer! This is a huge reason why I love Allen Premium Outlets so much. The variety of casual and workwear allows you to try any type of piece that you need to find that perfect fit. I have longer legs and a more narrow waistline so a wide leg pant with a cinched waist usually flatters my figure and really elevates my look.
These pants from H&M were just what I needed. I also found some straight leg pants from White House Black Market for under $50 (the entire store was 40% off at the outlet)! I personally try to stay away from work pants with a bootleg cut or flare fit. Find what works for you and you’ll never have to spend endless hours not knowing what to buy again!
Choose Pieces that Will Last
If you know the materials and fabrics to look for, you’ll be able to find affordable pieces that will last for years! My favorite fabrics are cotton, linen, or silk. It’s also a good idea to avoid pants that have more than a minimal amount of stretch. Go for a pair that fits you well naturally to avoid excessive stretching with wear. The outlet has tons of stores like Polo Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch and more featuring premium options that will live in your closet for a very long time.
Try to Stay Away from Trends
Trends are super fun and easy to shop for, but every piece counts when you’re on a budget. There was a time when almost everything in my closet was a trend. I never had anything to wear because once it was “out of style”, I never reached for it anymore. So I decided to shop smarter and started reaching for more neutral-toned pieces or colors that didn’t relate to a specific season so that I could wear my clothing at any time of the year.
I saw so plenty of these options during my shopping at Allen Premium Outlets at unbelievable prices! Every single piece that I purchased was a staple, including the Tory Burch Willa Small Shoulder Bag. This handbag retails for $478, can you believe that after the deals, my price was under $350?! This bag will last for a very long time and match with literally any outfit/occasion or season. You can’t beat that!
During the New Year, we always hear about wardrobe refreshes and upgrading or changing your style. I hope that this post gave you a few extra ideas on how to refresh your wardrobe and where to refresh it so that you don’t have to do it just once a year. What are some things that you shop for when updating your wardrobe?
I should probably upgrade my wardrobe. I tend to wear the same things for years! But I do love to save so I’ll keep your tips in mind.
Loving your post and your outfit! It’s time for me to update my wardrobe and I’m going to take a lot of your advice into consideration. I know for me it is very important to find clothing that accent my body shape
I have always struggled knowing what looks good on me. I think one thing but my friends think something else. Constant struggle.
I really enjoyed reading this post, thanks for sharing these tips.
Choosing what’s best for your body type and clothes that you are comfortable with is important. I also prefer buying that last even if they are a bit pricy
Finding pieces that flatter my body type is the most difficult part for me.
Those are great tips. I will definitely follow these things once I update my wardrobe. Thank you!
This sounds great. I do need an update and funds are limited at the moment. I don’t follow trends I wear what I want for myself.
These are some really nice pointers for upgrading your wardrobe. I really liked the suggestion of not going in for trends and shopping the smart way.
I am in serious need of an upgrade. Thanks for these tips, I am going to make this the year that I care about my fashion.
I do need to upgrade my wardrobe. I was just thinking of going through everything and getting some new pieces. My daughters and I just went through their clothing yesterday, so it’s probably time for me to do the same.
This is absolutely amazing I really love H&M most of my clothes is from it.
This is really great and thanks for these nice tips. There is a lot of other brands that can give good quality products with a friendly price.
It’s all about the right basics. I love finding staple pieces at hm.
These are some wonderful tips on upgrading your wardrobe on a budget, so helpful! I need to do this for sure very soon
I am loving this look of these outlets and makes me want to go shopping! I do love hitting the outlets as you can find great deals. Looks like you made out and you look fabulous too 😉