This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Payless for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.
I used to be horrible at accessorizing, partly because I didn’t have an eye for fashion, but mainly because I simply didn’t have the disposable income required to fill my dresser with all of the cool items my friends bought and wore with ease. So I used to rely on the items people gave me as gifts to dress up my outfits, and while this was an okay strategy when I was an awkward teenager, it became quite clear when I reached my 20s that I needed to take a crash course in accessorizing.
So I begged and pleaded with my fashionable friends, and over time I learned not only how to score fabulous deals on items I didn’t think I could afford, but I also learned the art of using them to transform my neutral and boring wardrobe into something a little more snazzy.
And since I know there are other gals out there who want to look trendy, but struggle to find the budget to do so, today I’m teaming up with the fabulous folks from Payless to share 5 of my best tips to teach YOU how to accessorize on a budget.
1. SCARVES
Scarves are by far one of my favorite accessories of all time as they offer an easy and inexpensive way to transform an otherwise bring outfit into something trendy and stylish. There are heaps of different ways to wear scarves to change up your look (I’ve collected some great tutorials HERE), and if you aren’t the sewing type and aren’t skilled enough to make your own, make sure to pay attention to the sales racks of your favorite fashion stores. I don’t think I’ve ever paid full price for a scarf, and I have quite an impressive collection!
2. STATEMENT JEWELRY
While simple jewelry is great for everyday wear, a pair of pendant earrings, a cool bangle, or a chunky necklace can really pull an outfit together. The trick is not to overdo it – you only need ONE statement piece – and to tailor your picks with your style and body type. Jewelry is one of the few items I allow myself to splurge on as a few items go a long way, but I’ve found lots of great and affordable pieces at thrift shops and boutiques over the years.
3. HAIR AND MAKEUP
I’ve always preferred subtle, neutral eyeshadow palettes, I’m a sucker for nude lip shades, and I rarely do anything exciting with my hair, but when I need to dress up an outfit and don’t have the right accessories on hand, smokey eye makeup, a pop of color on my nails, and a few beach waves go a long way. It’s such an inexpensive way to turn the ordinary into extraordinary, and the extra effort is worth the reward!
4. PURSES
Another fabulous way to make a statement without breaking the bank is to throw a funky purse into the mix. Avoid faux leather, knock-offs, and bags that are too busy, and try to take advantage of the ridiculous sale prices you see at the outlet stores for big brands as that’s where you’ll get the biggest bang for your buck. I always try to match my purse to my shoes for continuity, and try to mix things up as often as possible to give the illusion that I have more bags stashed in my closet than I really do!
5. SHOES
Footwear is perhaps one of the most important accessories you can invest in when trying to stay stylish and fashionable. Even the most put-together outfit will look mediocre if paired with unpolished shoes that have seen better days. And while some people will argue that finding the budget to buy new shoes each season can be downright impossible, I recently discovered that Payless provides quality options that are both up-to-date and affordable.
Have you shopped at Payless lately? I was a regular customer in my 20s, but apart from looking for deals on kids shoes since becoming a mom, I have neglected to check out their women’s collection for years. But when I went in to take a peak last week, I was absolutely STUNNED at how stylish and trendy their shoes are, and my husband was pleasantly surprised when I bought 5 items for less than what I’ve been know to spend on ONE pair of boots in higher-end stores!
These Ramona Booties in black are to die for. Don’t you agree? They are by far one of the most versatile pairs of booties I own as they go with skirts, dresses, jeans, and trousers, and the stilettos heel dresses up even the frumpiest of outfits.
I’ve been searching for a pair of red shoes for MONTHS, and simply could not resist these Red Patent Karmen Pumps. They add the perfect pop of color to an otherwise boring outfit, and go perfectly with my red blazer!
When I first saw these Brown Textured Snake Kathryn Platform Pumps, I knew I had to have them. They are the perfect compliment to skirts and dresses, and look absolutely amazing with a pair of skinny jeans. I’ve gotten so many compliments on these, and kind of regret not buying the Grey Felt ones as well!
While I love wearing dressy shoes, they have a tendency to make my feet hurt, so I decided to try these AIRWALK Ribbed Bootie Slippers and I really love them. I personally wear them around the house – who likes cold feet? – but plan on getting a second pair for cold morning runs to Starbucks!
If you’re looking for ways to accessorize on a budget this holiday season, make sure to check out your local Payless. You will be impressed with their selection and, more importantly, you will be able to stock up on trendy items for a fraction of the cost!
Don’t have time to shop in person? That’s okay. You can find HEAPS of fabulous finds on their website. Who doesn’t love online shopping during the holiday season?! And don’t forget to follow Payless on Pinterest!
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And if you’re looking for more tips to look trendy, please follow our Fashion board where we share all kinds of inspiration!
