Cheap Ways to Update a Spring Wardrobe

I don’t need any more clothes. I will never need to purchase anymore clothing. I have enough clothing and shoes to choke a donkey (I’ve said that so many times it’s sort of my mantra). In case you don’t understand this, I have what would be considered the man’s closet and the woman’s closet filled up with clothing only for me. Plus two large dressers and the coats and whatever are in a hall closet.

Did I mention that I don’t need any more clothes? Part of Springtime, however is cleaning, organizing and refreshing. There’s nothing fresher than new clothing, but there are some simple ways to update a spring wardrobe for almost nothing.

The Backward Hanger Method

If for some reason you don’t know for sure if you need certain items any more, you can try the backward hanger method. Everything you’re uncertain of, turn the hanger backwards in the closet. If you do wear it, after cleaning put it back in the closet facing the normal direction. It has been suggested to wait a year and whatever is still backwards get rid of.

Anytime you’re getting rid of clothing, consider how  you may make a few dollars from it. Consignment shops, second hand stores and even garage sales make getting rid of old clothing worth it. Also don’t forget about charitable donations for your taxes. Use any extra money for versatile accessories as they are the cheapest.

Minor Repairs and Alterations

Some of the clothing I don’t wear is for simple reasons, like there is a button missing, or a small tear. Whenever you come across something that needs a minor repair, set it in a pile. Pick a day of the weekend to go through and make all of the repairs that are necessary. This includes shoes as well. Do they just need a little polish? Is that heel worth having repaired? Can the sole be hot glued? Yes, I have done all of these. I am also not against using a sharpie to fill in tiny bleach spots on black sweaters and duct tape for quick hems in pants. What can I say. It’s all about survival out there.

Additionally, cut off those dumb jeans that shrunk and are too short. You aren’t ever going to wear them again. Everyone has a few cool cutoff shorts for weekends around the house or on casual outdoor excursions.

Hold a Clothing Swap

This is not only a fun get together but a great time to exchange some of the pieces you may be tired of with pieces your friend, sister, mom is tired of as well. Invite everyone you know regardless of size and style and have a clothing swap party. It’s good to have a few ground rules, one being no one is allowed to just straight out bring crap. Provide snacks and drinks and in the end, you may have  not only a good time, but some new to you clothing.

Accessorize

I noticed recently that all of the blouses and dresses have belts now. Which is fine with me, because I have lots of belts and they work well when I need to add something to whatever I’m wearing. I have also added a belt to a tube top so trust me, if you don’t have a cheap, thin belt, get one.

I also suggest long chunky necklaces and scarves, yes even in the Spring. These pieces help update any regular old shirt or blouse and cost almost nothing.

Mix and Match

Mix and match things that you wouldn’t think you could normally wear. Tube tops are very popular items which you wouldn’t think can be worn to the office, but yes, if you wear a shrug or light jacket, you’re still within the dress code (exact quote from a friend and tested by myself).

Some of these tips help freshen up a wardrobe for any season, but will definitely give a boost to springtime attire. What are some tips you use to avoid buying more clothes?