If your bank account took a real hit this December and your fingers are almost strained from inputting your pin code in again and again, get ready to commit these money-saving tips to memory. It’s often assumed that money is the ticket to great style, but in reality, you can look just as fashionable and way more unique when working with a reduced budget.

There are some simple ways you can cut back your spending, so you can add to your wardrobe without struggling in the week before payday. Who What Wear UK’s editors often shop in charity shops, as you can find many of the key trends of the moment like mock croc accessories and heritage check blazers in your local charity shop. Then there are things you can do within your own wardrobe, from selling the pieces you never wear to styling pieces in totally new ways.

Keep scrolling to see our essential tips for the girl on a shoestring budget.

1. Look for Specific Things on Resale Sites

Go straight to resale sites like eBay and Depop, and be really specific with your searches. If you’ve seen something you love on Zara, for example, it’s worth checking if it’s available for cheaper secondhand. You can also set alerts on sites like eBay and Vestiaire Collective for all the items you wish you could afford full price.

2. Alter Items You Buy in Sale to Fit

The problem with final markdowns in sales is pieces are rarely left in your size, but it can pay to be imaginative here and buy dresses you or your dry cleaners can alter to fit.

3. Buy a Slip

Cheap fabrics tend to cling or look see-through as they aren’t lined, so it’s worth investing in a slip dress or skirt you can wear underneath all your high-street dresses. It instantly makes them look much more expensive and more flattering, and you can buy a pack of two for £16 at Marks and Spencer.

4. Save on Your Layering Pieces

Layering is an easy way to add personality and a point of difference to your look, and Alyss Bowen, Byrdie’s social media editor, explains that she saves on items that aren’t the focal point of the outfit, buying her black roll-necks at Primark.

5. Look at Online Outlet Sites

You’ve heard of The Outnet, but did you know that Mango and ASOS also have online outlet stores?

6. Set Up Clothes Swap Evenings

If you can’t handle the stress of trying to sell clothes online, set up a clothes swap evening with your friends. I have a friend who is the same size as me and has similar taste, and so every six months or so, we swap over pieces to borrow.

7. Sell the Pieces You Never Wear

If you’re prepared to put in the time to sell your old clothes, you might have more money than you think sitting in the back of your wardrobe. See our comprehensive guide to selling clothes online for how to make it a pain-free process.

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