Americans spend an average of $1,700 per year on clothing and accessories, some people spend more, some less. To me, this seems like a lot of money that could be spent on travel. Which brings up one of the ways I am able to afford to travel. I limit my spending on clothing by scouring for discounts, and just having less clothing in general. I have been wearing some of the same clothing for years, it’s not essential for me to have a new outfit each week like television, online and magazine ads would try to convince me of. I don’t feel the need to buy new clothes all the time when I’m satisfied with the clothes I still have. Not to mention consuming less is much better for the environment. Forget fast fashion-to keep my style unique, I choose instead to mix and match my clothes, wear different makeup and accessorize.
One of my all time favorite purchases was when I found four lightweight polyester dresses. This was back in 2007 when I was in NYC, they were only $5 and because it was too good of a deal to pass up, I bought them in four different colors! Now, I bring a different color dress on each of my travels! They dry fast, are fun, comfortable and surprisingly durable. I like to accessorize them with scarves, and not once has someone complained to me about reusing an old outfit. (Note: Below you will see a photo of me and one of my scarves that I’ve had for nine years!)
When I do venture out to shop, I like to hit up thrift stores for unique bargains. If I decide instead to get newer clothes they are often, off season from discount stores like Ross or TJ Maxx and almost always on clearance. I’m also Ebay savvy. It’s taken some trial and error but over the years I have learned not to buy something just because it’s on sale though. It’s not always a good idea to buy clothing just because it’s less than a tank of gas. Because I’m careful with what I’m purchasing I am able to splurge items I really want and those are the ones I usually wear very often for years. Also if I’m able to, I try to fix my clothing when it’s on its last legs, rather than just throwing it away and replacing it with something new.
Below you can view a variety of my clothing that has stuck by me (quite literally) as I’ve worn it through the years on my travels.
Do you have any tips for saving money on clothing? Share in the comments below!