Bossin’ on a Budget – What This Means and How To Do It
Featured image obtained from Fashion Nova
“I love shopping on a budget. I believe that more fashion mistakes are made by people with deep pockets than by those who shop on a budget.”
Tim Gunn, obtained from picturequotes,com
Shopping on a budget can be a hard task. Fashion can be expensive – and cheap clothing is too often associated with cheap quality. However, style does not equal expensive. You don’t need to drop thousands – or even hundreds – on an outfit in order to be stylish. And while inexpensive clothing can lead to poor quality, this is certainly not always the case. It is possible to dress fashionably without breaking your bank account. You just have to know where to look.
I believe that style is a personal expression. Fashion is a unique avenue of excitement and opportunity. People should not have to be wealthy in order to be heard in the fashion world. Anyone can acquire excellent style within a range of prices. The media, particularly surrounding celebrities, has made many people feel otherwise. Celebrities are often photographed wearing thousands of dollars of clothing, whether walking down the street or attending a glitzy award show. The glamorous nature of award shows appeals to fashion lovers. However, the styles displayed at these exhibits are not realistic, meaning that they do not in any way speak to everyday fashion. Most celebrities borrow their looks from designers rather than purchasing the outfits themselves. And in regards to celebrities walking down the block sporting thousands of dollars worth of clothes – well, that’s just because they have enough money in their bank accounts to pay off my student loans, as well as the loans of my fellow 67,000 classmates at Rutgers University.
Fashion is fun, and breaking your bank account certainly is not. I have three main objectives when navigating the fashion world and explaining what I know to others. My first goal is to compare celebrity clothes to similar outfits with a much smaller price tag. My second goal is to provide helpful tips on acquiring cheap clothing while leaving the cheap quality behind. My third main objective is to show that even celebrities don’t always wear super expensive, unattainable clothing. Overall, my hope is to cultivate a stronger sense of fashion confidence in the average person – even if this means I help just one person feel better about style and affordability.
Yours Truly, Mary Connelly (Broke college student and lover of fashion).
Model Claudia Salinas and actor Al-Teron Williams during New York Fashion Week in February 2020. Photo by Donell Woodson/Getty Images
“I think people are going to miss getting dressed and going out to do things.”
Savannah Yarborough, founder of Nashville-based clothing brand Savas.
Savannah Yarborough speaks the truth.
After lounging around in nothing but leggings and Rutgers University t-shirts for nearly two months, I can attest to this statement.
The days where people could walk around the city within six feet of each other seems like a sweet, distant memory. I can’t help but be incredibly envious of model Claudia Salinas and actor Al-Teron Williams in the above photo (and not simply because their clothes are worth more than my car).
Indeed, the eagerness Yarborough speaks of is real. There is no doubt that many people feel this way.
Hopefully, this will encourage people to purchase new clothes, aiding the fashion industry, which has been struggling in multiple ways since the start of the pandemic.
The Struggling Shops
Photo courtesy of Yelp.com
Unfortunately, the economic struggle caused by the pandemic has caused many clothing stores to have to consider the strong possibility of permanently closing.
It is sad to think that this may become a trend, with the future of COVID-19 remaining so uncertain.
As of May 2020, the J. Crew Group — the clothing company that includes the brands J.Crew and Madewell — has become the first retailer in the United States to file for bankruptcy protection since the COVID-19 crisis caused major closures, according to Fashion United.
While J. Crew may be the first retailer to reach this unfortunate point, many lesser-known clothing stores have faced a similar fate.
A post-pandemic world may indeed see fewer large retailers — at least for a while — and definitely fewer small shops.
Diving into Digital
The future of fashion may be largely digital.
According to Fashion United, J.Crew will “continue to focus on its e-commerce business for both brands.” This e-commerce business now accounts for 50 percentof the company’s total revenues.
Other companies are predicting the move to digital.
“For us at SupplyCompass, we’re seeing that this crisis is a catalyst for change. Fashion brands need to digitalize to survive and this is pushing brands to do it. So VCs are looking for companies who can help other businesses and consumers in this time of crisis.”
Gus Bartholomew, co-founder of SupplyCompass.
For quite some time, clothing companies have had reasons to make the switch digital.
According to Brooke Roberts-Islam from Forbes, “End-to-end digitalization drives production efficiencies, reduces waste and human error and facilitates transparency.”
Roberts-Islam thinks COVID-19 will increase future digitalization.
“With simpler, leaner supply chains winning out during this crisis, COVID-19 appears to be a trigger for brands not yet digitally-focused to begin exploring, if not yet adopting, these solutions.”
Brooke Roberts-Islam, for Forbes.
Personally, I see the positives for the increased shift to digital. However, I would hate to see all shopping taking place online. That would just be strange.
The Giorgio Armani Fall 2020 Fashion Show, live-streamed from Milan. Photo obtained from wwd.com
The pandemic has caused some fashions shows to go digital, including Giorgio Armani’s Fall 2020 Milan Fashion Week show.
Armani decided to live-stream his show from a vacant room in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
However, this type of display (or no display at all) may not be so unfamiliar in the future, with some designers potentially deciding that shows are unnecessary.
The sustainability movement has already been pushing this mentality, and the pandemic could make it a reality.
New (And Not So New) Trends
Left: Photo courtesy of Petermanningnyc.com ; Right: Photo courtesy of Memorandom.com
In a post-COVID world, trends are bound to blossom and re-blossom.
Like Savannah Yarborough, designer Vivienne Tam would like to see more formal attire in a post COVID-19 world.
There is a strong possibility that more people will ditch the sweats for a dress or blazer.
Left: Photo courtesy of Joeded.com ; Center: Photo courtesy of dstld.com ; Right: Photo courtesy of pixiemarket.com
Valerie Steele, a fashion historian and director of the museum at Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology, predicts that people will wear “things that act like armor, a second skin” in order to “project power.”
According to Joseph V. Amodio from Penta, this drive to project power is due to living in an era of such “powerlessness.”
He says wearing this armor-like clothing means “padded shoulders for women, leather jackets for men.”
Left: Photo courtesy of Powerdaysale.com ; Right: Photo courtesy of Champion.com
However, Steele also predicts current trends will continue to grow once the health crisis has ceased.
So, it may not be time to kiss your stained sweats and over-worn tees goodbye just yet.
“Yet moments of social upheaval often amplify style trends already in motion.”
Josheph V. Amodio, for Penta.
Steele thinks “athleisure and casualization,” which Amodio notes were strong trends before the pandemic and have been “reinforced” during the crisis, will increase as the world moves forward.
I certainly think and hope that people purchase large amounts of clothing following the pandemic. This will help struggling clothing businesses and the fashion world as a whole.
It also wouldn’t hurt the fashion world to see more people flaunting formal attire on an on and increased basis.
Once the world starts to return to normal, I’ll definitely be ditching the sweats.
Photos courtesy of the THEIA Fall 2020 Bridal Runway Show, obtained from bridal.theiacouture.com
Beautiful. Bold. Bridal.
Weddings are extraordinary events, often involving large locations, caterers, and guests.
Extraordinary events call for extravagant fashion.
While bridal gowns are quite exquisite, there are plenty of budget-friendly options.
Weddings are expensive enough — the gown doesn’t have to be so expensive as well.
The fashion world and the market as a whole have struggled recently due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the bridal industry will survive the hard times with resilience. Bridal will never disappear.
As many people all over the world are out of work, it is an especailly important time to show people that bridal can be affordable.
Here are examples of three designers who create gorgeous gowns without the super hefty price tag.
Katie May
Poipu with Sparkle Underlay
Photos obtained from katiemay.com
This gown is both elegant and sexy.
The the lace design delicately dances across the gown.
The scallop lace trim detail along the backline, neckline and under-bust brings even more elegance to this gown.
The tulle sequin underlay adds a sparkle that adds to the mesmerizing, majestic aura.
This gown regularly costs $2,450 but is on sale for $615.
Beaded Tulum
Photos obtained from katiemay.com
The elaborate and exaggerated appearance of this gown makes it surprising that it is priced at $695, on sale from $3,295.
The beaded bodice and the off-shoulder ruffle sleeve make this gown not just gorgeous, but glamorous as well.
The cut-out back adds a sexy touch, while the fitted bodice flows perfectly into the billowy chiffon skirt.
Cannes
Photos obtained from katiemay.com
It’s hard to believe that a wedding gown this stunning is priced at $495, on sale from $2,595.
Chantilly-lace and beautiful trim detailing bring a special elegance to this gown.
The V-neckline and lace-up open back creates a sexy aura.
Noel and Jean “The Lady”
Photos obtained from katiemay.com
The gorgeous embroidery seen throughout this gown is constant and pronounced without overdoing it.
The peaked cups and invisible tool straps bring a unique factor to this gown, while the low back works perfectly with the elaborate design.
This gown is normally $1,316 but is currently priced at $465.
THEIA Bridal
Farrah
Photos obtained from bridal.theiacouture.com
You can’t go wrong with chic or classy. This gown encompasses both.
The simple style that is free of pattern and the crisp bateau neckline is reminiscent of Meghan Markle’s magnificent wedding gown — but at approximately one ninetieth of the cost.
This gown costs between $1,500 and $1,999, depending on which retailer its purchased from.
Cassia
Photos obtained from bridal.theiacouture.com
The beautiful beading on the 3D flower hand embroidered bustier creates a radiating aura for this elegant gown, princess-esque gown.
The elegant bow ties everything together quite nicely.
Depending on the retailer, this gown is priced between $2,500 and $2,999.
Meghan
Photos obtained from bridal.theiacouture.com
A plunging neckline usually brings a nice touch to a minimally beaded, simplistic gown.
The body of this stretch crepe gown flows perfectly into a mermaid train.
This gown costs between $1,500 and $1,999, depending on where it’s purchased.
Freesia
Photos obtained from bridal.theiacouture.com
Beaded, patterned straps add a pop! to this simplistic, crepe gown.
The halter neck also suits the simple design well.
Depending on the retailer, this gown is priced between $1,500 and $1,999.
Kennedy Blue
Andi
Photos obtained from kennedyblue.com
Romance is in the air with this sparkling A-line gown.
The delicate lace appliqué of the tulle skirt adds to the fairy tale aura of this gown, which looks like it came straight from a photo shoot for Taylor Swift’s song, “Enchanted.”
It’s surprising that this gown isn’t in the five digits — in fact, it’s not even close. It’s priced at $1,299.
Anastasia
Photos obtained from kennedyblue.com
It’s rather shocking that this gown is priced at only $1,100.
The chapel length train and plunging neckline adds character to this lovely, simplistic gown.
The delicate lace trim is full of grace and beauty.
Adele
Photos obtained from kennedyblue.com
Strapless with a sweetheart neckline, this gown is the epitome of elegance.
The fit and flare silhouette extenuates the bride’s natural figure.
It’s hard to believe that this gown only costs $1,100.
Arianna
Photos obtained from kennedyblue.com
This A-line gown is reminiscent of a fairy tale.
The sparkle in the tulle underlay adds the perfect amount of shimmer to this gorgeous gown — which is priced at $1,150.
The beaded spaghetti straps and the chapel length train are wonderful details that make this gown all the more romantic.
Spring is upon us, gracing nature with the sweet aroma of magnolia trees and the warm rays of sunshine.
However, it can be hard to enjoy these elements when our environment is now filled with fear and uncertainty for the future.
While it can be hard to look beyond the current situation, it will get better. It can be helpful to lean on nature during these hard times.
The flowers are still blooming. Spring is here.
This photo shoot was conducted through quarantine and aims to show that while the world is a worrisome place, nature is beautiful. Fashion is beautiful.
All of the looks featured in this shoot are also budget-friendly.
Photos by Me Get The Look: Size Medium Tee from Primark, $8.
There’s nothing wrong with experiencing spring with a little bit of summer.
This sea-blue tee emits serious summer vibes with its anchor pattern.
Hopefully, beach days will be possible again sooner than later.
Photos by MePhotos by Me Get the look: Size Medium Collared Tee from H&M, $20.
Semi-casual is here this spring!
While most of us are stuck in our houses, no one says our quarantine looks solely have to contain sweatpants.
The pastel pink in this tee gives major Easter vibes.
Photos by Me Get the look: Size Medium Long-Sleeved Tee, from Primark, $12.
This cloudy-colored, simple long-sleeved tee is is perfect for chillier spring days that can be common in April (we have experienced plenty of these so far this month).
Photo by Me Get the look: Size Medium Tee from Primark, $10
Photos by Me Get the look: Size Medium Tee from Primark, $10.
The fun, off-white speckled tee with ribbed sleeves is stylish and comfortable.
The quirky, bubble gum pink donut cap compliments this tee nicely, bringing out the colored speckles.
Photo by Me
The pop of vibrant colors throughout this tee scream spring.
Light-wash jeans complement these colors perfectly, allowing the fun tee to truly shine.
Acknowledgements
I would like to give a special thanks to Traevon Walker (my quarantine buddy) for being the model for this photo shoot. I don’t know what I would have done without Traevon’s participation and cooperation. All photos were taken from Manalapan, New Jersey.
Where to Buy
All of the shirts featured in this photo shoot, excluding the checkered collared item, were purchased at Primark at the Freehold Raceway Mall in Freehold, New Jersey.
The BOSS closed storefront, March 19, 2020 in Madrid, Spain. Photo by Getty Images
The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc around the globe, taking lives and keeping people at home.
Many businesses have closed indefinitely, and schools have resorted to online learning.
Quarantining and social distancing are two of the main measures that have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus.
Target Medallion store in Dallas, Texas on March 12, 2020. Photo by Kirsten Schlein
Shopping for survival has certainly surpassed shopping for pleasure, with toilet paper aisles in merchandise stories and supermarkets looking like skeletons
In a world on survival mode, where does the fashion industry stand?
Many clothing stores have closed — and may not be coming back.
Left: Photo by Shutterstock ; Right: Photo obtainment from FashionUnited
American retail giant JC Penny closed its doors on March 19.
While the temporary closing was supposed to last through April 2, all stores remain unopened.
British-based Debenhams — whose roots go back to 1773 — was already experiencing some issues before the COVID-19 outbreak, having entered Administration on April 9, 2019.
However, after recently coming out of Administration, Debenhams’ appeared to have potential for recovery.
The global pandemic flipped this optimism.
“COVID-19 has brought all the retailers’ problems to head a little earlier than expected. After 242 years on the high street, there is a good change that many, if not all of the department stores’ doors won’t be opening after the UK wide lock down ends.”
The closing of Debenhams also means the termination of 22,000 jobs.
The fashion world has taken a hard hit economically.
“Offline retail had already seen massive declines in sales and traffic at the start of the crisis-and now both have gone to zero.”
McKinsey & Company
According to McKinsey & Company, “Across North America, retailers are shutting their doors for consumer and worker safety or in compliance with government orders.”
Digital Matters
While it may seem that online shopping would serve as the solution for these issues, it is not a perfect substitution.
According to GQ, Bain and Company — an American management consultancy firm — has seen online sales of designer goods decrease during the quarantines in China.
GQ also points out that people have questions about the safety of ordering online.
While it has been deemed mostly safe to online shop by multiple health experts, including Dr. Gabriela Andujar Vasquez, an infectious disease physician at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts, it doesn’t hurt to be cautious by disinfecting packages and washing hands after contact.
Still, the fashion world is not exempt from the current survival-mode mentality of society.
“I do think we need to prioritize. I’m limiting my purchases to things I need to work or live… Do you need that bathing suit yet? I think taking a moment to consider the workers and the issues we’re all dealing with right now is something that should be on people’s minds.”
Tara Smith, professor of epidemiology at the college of public health at Kent State University
Indeed, along with self-protection, prioritizing others may be a reason for the decline in online shopping of designer goods for the fashion industry.
However, as of March 20, online shopping had increased, rather than declined. According to Quantum Metric, revenue acquired from online clothing shopping had grown by forty-three percent since the first week of January at retailers in the United States.
The Future of Fashion
The future of fashion could be digital.
The spread of COVD-19 saw the cancellations of multiple fashion shows, including Ralph Lauren’s April show.
Left: Photo obtained from the Independent ; Right: Photo obtained from the New York Post
Instead of cancelling, Giorgio Armani live-streamed his show from a vacant room on the final day of Milan Fashion Week.
The purpose of this method was to keep the guests safe by preventing them from attending a crowded space.
“In a time of crisis, we have to think about a radical reset.”
Anna Wintour to the Times
The current situation might also encourage designers to question the future of fashion shows, with some possibly deciding that they are unnecessary and to do away with them.
The sustainability movement has already been pushing the industry to rethink the idea that these shows are necessary. The pandemic could lead them to a decision.
Left: Photo by The CW ; Center and Right: Photos by Getty Images, Retrieved from Cosmopolitan
Blair Waldorf was bold.
She was tasteful. She was trendy. She was elegant. And she was anything but casual.
Gossip Girl ran on The CW network from 2007-2012. Throughout its six seasons, Blair sported an abundance of fashionable ensembles from an array of well-known designers.
Although it hasn’t been on air for eight years, Gossip Girl continues to reign as a vastly popular show, particularly among teenage girls and young adult women. This may be due to its availability on Netflix.
But, it goes deeper than that.
Along with Blair Waldorf (played by Leighton Meester), Gossip Girl successfully created a second fictional style icon: Serena Van der Woodsen (played by Blake Lively).
The show follows their wildly glamorous lives in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, including their seemingly unattainable styles. The audience grows envious, yearning to live their lives more like these girls and trying to find ways to dress like them.
Many of Blair’s looks are also quite timeless. Elegance will never go out of style.
It’s for these reasons that Blair Waldorf is still relevant today.
Below are some Blair’s best looks, organized by particular categories.
The Opulent Overcoat
Left: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Stylevore ; Center: Photo by The CW ; Right: Photo by Justin Campbell, Retrieved from Just Jared
According to Helen Warner, author of “Fashion on Television: Identity and Celebrity Culture: “Indeed, for Ellis, it is the supposed lack of ‘glamour’ associated with television personalities which prevents them from achieving ‘legitimate’ stardom” (Warner, 111).
This is not the case for Blair Waldorf, the epitome of glamour and who has really become a household name in the fashion world, despite being a fictional character.
Blair frequently wore overcoats throughout Gossip Girl.
Here, she experimented with colors and patterns, pairing each coat with a unique pair of heels.
(Not So Mellow) Yellow
Left: Photo by Steve Sands / Flynetpictures.com, Retrieved from Snap Fashion Blog ; Center: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Pinterest ; Right: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Insider
If anyone knows how to make citrus chic, it’s Blair Waldorf.
She wore lemon print in both the left and right images, pairing the looks with equally bright-colored heels.
The handbag in the middle images goes perfectly with the dashes of mustard in her skirt.
Bold in Blue
Left: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Insider ; Center: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Pinterest ; Right: Photo Retrieved from Glamour, Courtesy of Pacific Coast News
Blair was not afraid to explore mixed patterns. The look on the left is the perfect example of how to make contrasting patterns look amazing together.
The belts in the center and on the right served as the perfect complement to the chic blue dresses.
School with Style
Left: Photo by Giovanni Rufino / The CW, Retrieved from InStyle ; Center: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Insider ; Right: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Cosmopolitan
“Style Is How You Say: This Is Who I Am Today”– Helen Warner.
Blair never let a school uniform stop her from showing off her style.
The designer handbags in the left and center images were the perfect stylish substitute for a backpack.
Blair proved she could even make a gym uniform look trendy in the right image.
Preppy in Pink
Left: Photo by Giovanni Rufino / The CW, Retrieved from Buzzfeed ; Center: Photo by The CW, Retrieved from Wornontv.net ; Right: Photo by Getty Images, Retrieved from Cosmopolitan
Blair gave floral a new meaning in her unique look on the left.
The zebra print heels in the center really gave the look a pop! They looked fantastic with the deep fuchsia dress.
The ’20s vibes are real on the right, showing Blair could really pull off a look from any decade.
In 1870, actress Sarah Bernhardt did the unthinkable.
She wore pants in public.
Yes. Pants.
In fact, she worse a full on suit. Gasp!
Naturally, people referred to Bernhardt’s fashion choice as “boy’s clothes” and thought this to be a highly controversial matter.
Widely due to the controversy, women wearing suits would not become a cultural norm until a hundred years later during the feminist movement of the 1970s. And, even then, women still faced backlash.
Women’s use of pants — also known as “dungarees” — led to the popular pantsuit. This development really took off during the 20th century.
The 1920s
Left: Photo obtained from Pinterest ; Center and Right: Photos obtained from VintageDancer.com
During the 1920s, the pantsuit was not yet a developed fashion item. However, it was definitely in the works.
While society still rebuked the idea of women wearing pants, there were some exceptions.
Women’s tuxedos were viewed as an acceptable ensemble for female cabaret performers. The left image shows Anita Berber, a popular performer of the time.
The two-piece beach pajama, shown in the center, became a fashion trend. While it was not popularized until the 1930s, it began in the 1920s and was sported among “fashion elites.”
Pants were also viewed as acceptable if worn as sportswear. These were referred to as “sports knickers,” as seen in the photo on the right.
However, up until the mid 1920s, these “knickers” were not allowed at many golf courses.
Left: Photo by Bettmann via Getty Images ; Center: Photo by Eugene Robert Richee via Getty Images ; Right: Photo from Donaldson Collection via Getty Images
Pansuits really started to come into their own throughout the 1930s.
Female celebrities helped popularize this look, including actresses Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, and Jean Harlow. They wore pantsuits in films, as well as in everyday life.
Hepburn sported this casual suit while ice skating at Madison Square Garden.
Dietrich is pictured in a tuxedo from the film “Morocco.”
Harlow wore this fashionable and comfortable-looking suit in the film “Libeled Lady.”
Hepburn and Dietrich especially contributed to the pantsuit revolution. They were both known to wear pantsuits outside of films, and did so quite frequently.
At the time, this was still seen as a bold move.
The 1940s & 1950s
Left: Photo obtained from Pinterest ; Center: Photo by Loomis Dean via Getty Images ; Right: Photo by Bettmann via Getty Images
Although they decreased in popularity for some time following World War II, pantsuits continued to make appearances in films, and celebrities continued to wear them outside of movies throughout the 1940s and 1950s,
Actress Betty Davis pushes the airplane from the 1942 film “Now, Voyager,” in the center image.
Lucille Ball was a prominent figure in the United States, stemming from her popular 1950s show “I Love Lucy.” Her use of the pantsuit definitely helped to keep it popular.
Again, Katharine Hepburn sported a pantsuit in this 1952 photo.
The 1960s
Left: Photo by Staff/Getty Images ; Center: Photo by Getty Images ; Right: Photo by C. Maher via Getty Images
The pantsuit really started to gain traction in the mid 1960s.
Guitar-clad Brigitte Bardot wore a wool suit for a 1961 holiday variety show.
In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent designed the Le Smoking tuxedo, which contributed to the popularity of the pantsuit. Pictured on the left is an advertisement for the tuxedo.
New York City socialite Nan Kempner wore a Le Smoking suit to restaurant La Cote Basque in 1969, where she was told that a pantsuit had no more of a place there than a swim suit.
As a response, Kempner removed her pants and went into the restaurant with only the sit jacket. She said it was a mini-dress.
Judy Garland donned an eye-catching pantsuit in 1968, showing that pantsuit designers were beginning to experiment more.
The 1970s
Left: Photo obtained from Pinterest ; Center: Photo by Getty Images ; Right: Photo from Pinterest
Advertisements promoting pantsuits continued to grow in the 1970s.
In 1973, Revlon introduced their “Charlie perfume.” The pictured ad shows a woman sporting a pantsuit.
The ad with the pantsuit-clad woman on the right is from the 1976 issue of L’Officiel Magazine.
Bianca Jagger was a huge influence in the fashion world. She wore pantsuits frequently.
In this 1979 photo, Jagger struts down the street in a white pantsuit. The black bow adds a unique value to the look.
The 1980s
Left: Photo by Wireimage ; Center: Photo by Getty Images ; Right: Photo by REX (from the Ralph Lauren Autumn/Winter 1989 Collection)
The 1980s is the decade of the “power suit.”
Pointed shoulders and buttons were the overarching theme of 1980s pantsuits. Women began to increasingly wear these suits to work.
Bianca Jagger continued to rock pantsuits throughout this decade.
She donned a checkered suit in the left image from 1983.
Her white suit — with shorts — adds to the uniqueness of the look and shows how far pantsuits had come from being intensely frowned-upon in the years prior.
Pantsuits really grew in popularity in this decade. This is evident through the fact that they were displayed in fashion shows.
Cindy Crawford strut down the runway in a buttoned suit for the 1989 Ralph Lauren Autumn/Winter Collection.
The 1990s
Photos by Getty Images
Up until 1993, women were not allowed to wear trousers on the Senate floor.
Senators Barbara Mikulski and Carol Moseley-Braun were at the forefront at the demand to remove this ban.
More and more female celebrities continued to wear pantsuits throughout the 1990s. The look had become very popular.
Julia Roberts wears a Giorgio Armani suit at the 47th Golden Globe Awards in 1990.
Queen Latifah and Gwyneth Paltrow sported bold, eye-catching looks.
Latifah wowed in a bright red leather suit at the 1995 American Music Awards.
Paltrow donned a Tom Ford deep red velvet suit at the 1996 MTV Video Music Award.
The 2000s
Left: Photo by Bauer Griffin ; Center: Photo by Getty Images ; Right: Photo by Shutterstock
Hillary Clinton has worn many pantsuits throughout her political career, experimenting with various colors and patterns.
Clinton has helped paved the way for pantsuits, as she is an extremely influential figure. She definitely makes a strong statement, as politics has a particular history with women and pantsuits, as discussed above.
Clinton wore this bright look in 2008.
Jennifer Lopez and Tyra Banks are both iconic figures. Thus, their decision to wear suits shows how this style really became normalized in the acting, music and modeling worlds.
Lopez rocked this ensemble in April of 2007, while Banks turned heads in her chic pantsuit at the 2009 GLAAD Media Awards.
The 2010s
Left: Photo by David X Prutting/BFA/REX/Shutterstock ; Center: Photo by Getty Images ; Right: Photo by Say Cheese! / Getty Images
Throughout the 2010s, women continued to experiment with bold colors and patterns when it came to pantsuits.
Beyonce accepted her 2016 fashion icon award in a pantsuit.
That screams progress.
It’s worth noting that Beyonce did not just wear any regular suit — this Givenchy Haute Couture ensemble contains $9 million worth of Lorraine Schwartz jewels.
On the promotion tour for her 2018 film “A Simple Favor,” Blake Lively charmed in an array of eye-catching pantsuits. This neon green look is certainly bold.
Gigi Hadid’s velvet and satin runway look from the Tom Ford Spring 2019 Collection has been compared to Gwyneth Paltrow’s 1996 red suit by Fashionista editor Alyssa Vingan Klein.
2020
Left: Photo by Getty Images ; Center: Photo by Jacopo Raule from Getty Images ; Right: Photo by Getty Images North America
While 2020 only began a few months ago, many celebrities have already rocked pantsuits, further displaying this ensemble’s popularity and how far society has come in the last one hundred years.
Cara Delevingne matched the carpet in her lilac Boss pantsuit in February 2020.
Janelle Monae was all about stripes in her Michael Kors Winter 2020 Collection pantsuit.
Billie Eilish wore a Gucci pantsuit to the 2020 Vanity Fair Oscar party.
Throughout the decades, the pantsuit has grown to be an extremely prominent look — as well as a fashion statement.
Fortunately, it does not seem like the pantsuit will be going away anytime soon.
It’s low-maintenance. It’s comfortable. It’s carefree. Sometimes, it hones in on aspects of grunge.
It’s college street style.
When it comes to shoes, college street style has one main focus: sneakers.
Sneakers are certainly the trend at Rutgers University, ranging from brands like Converse and Keds, Vans and Adidas.
Black, white, gray and blue are popular shades.
Most of these sneakers aren’t very clean — In fact, many of them are visibly dirty, adding to the carefree, grunge vibe.
The majority of these looks are budget-friendly, with some exceptions (sorry Adidas Superstar’s).
This may very well be due to the reality behind the popular phrase “broke college student.”
Converse & Keds
Photos by Me
Black and blue steal the show for these sneakers.
While the shoes on the left represent the plain, one-toned sneaker that has showed itself to be a trend at Rutgers, the quirky patterned pair are a symbol for the more unique, designed sneakers that are also prevalent across campus.
The navy blue high tops are relatively simple, but catch the eye with the All Star star symbol and the showy laces, making them the perfect blend of plain and pop!
The black Chuck Taylor All Star Converse low tops are on sale for $49.95 (marked down from $55) on Shoes.com.
On Keds.com, the fun patterned gray-blue Keds lace ups are priced at $44.95.
The navy blue Chuck Taylor All Star Converse high tops are $55 on Converse.com
Vans
Photos by Me
On campus, Vans are vastly popular in black, with gray following close behind.
Something about the look of the high tops causes them to draw a bit more attention than their low top counterparts.
The black high tops sell for $65 on Vans.com.
On Vans.com, the Canvas Old Skool black low tops and the gray low tops of the same name go for $60.
Puma, Nike & Fila
Photos by Me
White sneakers are popular with Puma, Nike and Fila college customers.
All three of these shoes contain small holes at the top, right above the toe. These are meant for ventilation purposes, but definitely contribute to the style of the shoe as well.
The left image shows Nike Air Force One low tops, which are the first item on this list to be considered budget-angry (due to the $90 price tag, courtesy of Foot Locker).
The Puma Carina Sneaker’s in the middle are $59.99 at DSW.
Shown on the right, the Fila Distruptor 2 Premium’s are $64.99 at Macy’s (but are often on sale).
Adidas
Photos by Me
When it comes to Adidas on campus, shades of white definitely have a large presence.
Symbols hold power, especially when it comes to sneakers.
The gold Adidas symbols on the sneakers in the center and on the right definitely give them a more showy, stylish flare.
Adidas.com prices the Cloudfoams on the left at $49 (marked down from $70).
The shining star of the center image are the Superstar‘s (pun intended), which sell for $80 on Adidas.com, making them the second budget-angry item on this list (womp womp).
Shown in the right image, the Stan Smith’s cost $55 on Adidias.com.
Left: Photo by Getty Images ; Center: Photo by Chelsea Lauren/Deadline/Shutterstock ; Right: Photo by Stefanie Kennan/Getty Images
Timeless. Tasteful. Classic.
Some looks just never get out of style, including the white t-shirt, blue jeans, button-downs, blazers, and nude heels.
While these clothing items are a basic building block for any wardrobe, they certainly are not boring.
Each of these budget-friendly items can be used as the foundation of a casual look or as an important element of a more formal attire.
The White T-Shirt
Left: Photo from Everlane ; Right: Photo from J. Crew Factory
The white t-shirt is an essential clothing item that should have a place in everyone’s closet — especially for people on a budget.
This versatile staple can be paired with almost anything. Throw it on with a pair of blue jeans for a casual look (as seen in the photo on the left), or pair it with a skirt and chic necklace for a more formal ensemble (as seen in the photo on the right).
Versatility is not the only aspect that makes this staple a win for budget-shoppers. The price tag is also a major factor.
Everlane’s tee on the left is priced at $18, while J. Crew Factory’s is currently 40% off for $14.50.
The Blue Jean
Left: Photo from Old Navy ; Right: Photo from Abercrombie & Fitch
It’s uncommon to find someone in 2020 who doesn’t own at least one pair of blue jeans.
This is because blue jeans are a popular fashion staple that have been around for decades. And, like the white t-shirt, they’re incredibly versatile and can be highly affordable.
The Old Navy jeans in the left image are marked down to $30 from $34.99, and the Abercrombie & Fitch pair are on sale for $39 (they were originally priced at $78).
Both of these looks can be classified as semi-casual. While both are paired with heels, blue jeans look just as good with sporty sneakers or trendy thigh-high boots.
The possibilities are relatively endless.
The Button-Down
Left: Photo from J. Crew Factory ; Right: Photo from Old Navy
Button-downs are an essential aspect of any wardrobe.
Wear one to the office with a skirt or dress pants, or wear them at home with a pair of jeans. Either way, they add a simple yet chic element to any look.
J. Crew Factory’s button-down in the left photo is 60% off for $19.50, while Old Navy’s is $12.
The Blazer
Left: Photo from H&M ; Right: Photo from Shein
Blazer’s are an excellent way to elevate almost any outfit.
A chic blazer looks great with a pair of jeans and heels, or with a matching pair of dress pants.
H&M’s blazer in the left image is priced at $34.99. Shein’s blazer in the right image costs only $18.
The Nude Heel
Photos from Lulus
Nude heels are not only a key element to any wardrobe — they’re a killer one, too.
They’re cute, stylish, and go with just about anything. They can take a casual jeans and t-shirt look to the next level, or serve as a nice complement to any dress.
Both of these images show nude heels from Lulus. The pair on the left are priced at $38. The ones on the right cost $35.
Adding to the affordability, Lulus offers customers the option to pay in installments.
The heels on the left can be split into four payments of $10, while the pair on the right can be paid in four installments of $9.
Although this ends up adding $2 to the left heels and $1 on the right, it’s a good option.
Photo by Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Marc Jacobs
This years’ Fall Fashion week was all about the bold.
Oversized sweaters. Fun and fringed ponchos. Pops of plaid. Single colors as the shining stars.
New York Fashion Week Fall 2020 was full of numerous trends, but these four seem to stand out in a different way. They aren’t just bold — they’re relatable.
While the actual runway looks may be worth more than my car (I wish I was joking), it’s not too challenging to find similar looks that the average person can actually afford, making this Fashion Week surprisingly budget-friendly.
Below is a compilation of these four big trends seen at the 2020 New York Fashion Week.
Oversized Sweaters
Left: Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images ; Right: Photo by Peter White/WireImage
Left: Photo by Peter White/FilmMagic ; Right: Photo courtesy of Michael Kors
Michael Kors, Brandon Maxwell, and Zadig & Voltaire all employed oversized knit sweaters in their Fashion Week lineup, securing this look as a trend.
Brandon Maxwell’s green sweater-dress emits an oversized yet wonderfully tailored look. The flowy sleeves give the look personality, and the belt ties it together beautifully.
The bright red sweater from Zadig & Voltaire boldly stands out against the black leather skirt and boots.
The similar-looking beige and gray sweaters from Michael Kors are about as cozy as it gets.
These looks are realistic — who doesn’t want to snuggle up in a cozy sweater to combat the cold weather?
Left: Photo courtesy of Forever 21 ; Right: Photo courtesy of Lulus
These knit sweaters resemble the styles seen on the runway — without the hefty price tag.
The cute and casual beige sweater on the left, found at Forever 21, sells for just $24.99 (and is currently on sale for $15).
The trendy turtleneck on the right from Lulus is priced at $58.
Ponchos
Photos from Imaxtree, obtained from Fashionista
Photos from Imaxtree, obtained from Fashionista
Gabriela Hearst, Zimmermann, Longchamp and Svitlana Bevza hopped aboard the cozytrain along with the previous designers.
Besides a knit sweater, nothing truly speaks winter like a warm poncho.
The Gabriela Hearst poncho in the top left is certainly eye-catching with its fringe and colorful design that strongly resembles rainbow sprinkles…yum! Everything about this look is fun.
In the top right, the white Zimmermann poncho employs fringe in a less vibrant, more traditional way. Nonetheless, it is rather stylish, making it a solid contributor to this trend.
The intriguing design of the Longchamp look in the bottom left helps bring some mystery to the simple poncho — does it have a hidden meaning?
Svitlana Bevza did a wonderful job with the tailored and simple blue poncho in the bottom right.
Photos obtained from Nordstrom Rack
The fun polka-dot poncho on the left from Vince Comuto is normally $68, but is on sale for $27.97 on Nordstrom Rack.
The chic and smooth La Fiorentina poncho on the right is currently on sale for $49.97 on Nordstrom Rack (its original price is listed at $149).
Plaid
Photos by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images (obtained from Forbes)
Left: obtained from Tom+Lorenzo, Courtesy of Michael Kors ; Right: Photo by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
Rag & Bone, Monse, and Michael Kors took on yet another winter staple and made it a 2020 trend.
While Monse experimented with edginess in the red look in the top right, the other superb designers kept it more traditional, sticking with the warm elements often associated with plaid.
Monse took a refreshing direction by employing a sleeveless plaid look, while Rag & Bone and Michael Kors stuck to long sleeves.
Left: Photo obtained from Windsor ; Right: Photo Obtained from Shein
There’s no need to pay hundreds of dollars for plaid when it’s accessible in cute styles in the two-digit price point.
This cute plaid mini dress on the left is $26.90 from Windsor.
The comfy cozy plaid flannel on the right is just $15 from Shein.
Single Color
Photos by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
Left: Photo by Victor VIRGILE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images (obtained from Forbes) ; Right: Photo by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
Sally LaPointe made a strong statement with her plethora of single-color, bright ensembles.
Carolina Herrera and Brandon Maxwell also contributed to this vivid trend.
The Brandon Maxwell dress in the bottom right is both elegant and fashionably daring, employing a high neckline as well as a high slit.
The green of the Carolina Herrera ensemble stands out. This outfit is so in tune with itself, as not only is the same color employed throughout, but also the same design.
Left: Photo obtained from New York & Company ; Right: Photo obtained from Boohoo
These 7th Avenue “Barley Bootcut” pants are currently marked down from $54.95 to $25 from New York & Company.
This versatile red blazer (because blazers can add charm to virtually any boring outfit) from Boohoo is half off right now for $27.50.
These are the words that come to mind when viewing Sally LaPointe’s Fall 2020 Collection from New York Fashion Week. New York-based LaPointe used a variety of colors, textures and fabrics to execute her eye-catching collection.
Throughout this collection, LaPointe utilized the same color – or different shades of the same color – to create multiple looks, experimenting with texture and style within these ensembles.
Photos by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
These three glowing looks all use a similar shade of purple with a glossy, shimmery appearance. The ensembles on the left and right contain a similarly-colored handbag, with the look on the left including a matching belt.
However, the middle look is free of any accessories. While the handbags complement the left and right looks nicely, the lack of accessory allows the beautiful gown in the middle to speak for itself.
This sleeveless gown, along with the wonderfully matching thigh-high boots, takes the win in the purple category (if there even are any categories).
Photos by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
Here, LaPointe experiments with latex, opting for all-latex ensembles for the left and middle looks. The look on the right pairs this material with a soft, fuzzy fabric, creating a unique outfit.
While the jumpsuit on the left contains a handbag and the skirt on the right contains a belt, the middle look is void of accessories, much like the middle purple look. It is also sleeveless, and, like the middle purple look, steals the show in its category (that being beige here).
The simplicity of the sheer top and long, slit skirt emits a more natural aura that does not need any additives.
The neutral beige of these looks allows the fabric to be the focus.
Photos by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
Like the beige looks, LaPointe employs latex in these blue ensembles. All three of these looks contain latex – but not solely latex.
On the left, a soft off-the-shoulder top gives way to a long latex skirt with thigh-high boots of the same material. The outfit on the right is made up of a soft dress, a belt, a latex handbag, and knee-high latex boots.
The middle ensemble contains a long silk coat and top of the same fabric, with a belted latex skirt and thigh-high boots.
The balance of fabric-mixing in the middle look is just right, with the silk and the latex working together marvelously.
Photos by Filippo Fior / Gourunway.com
These chartruese looks are hard to miss.
While LaPointe could have let this bold color speak for itself, she decided to play with fabrics yet again, giving even more substance to these looks.
The fun, fuzzy bunches on the sleeves of the left ensemble work well with the smooth texture of the long coat.
The soft fabric in the middle ensemble looks wonderful paired with the leather belt and even softer-looking lower-sleeves. The silk pants perfectly complement the similarly-soft coat in the right ensemble.
These looks all contain a fantastic combination of dimension employed by the varying textures and colors.
Bossin' on a Budget 