Looking Your ‘Business Best’ on a Budget

We all know financial independence is a journey of calculated actions and patient work, particularly in a tough economy. If you love Versace but have a budget more suited to St. Vincent de Paul, you can still look first class…

GO SHOPPING IN YOUR CLOSET

It may not sound exciting but you can make it fun. All you need is a couple of hours, an open mind and a pair of fresh eyes (yours or invited). If you can find a friend or colleague in the same situation, do one Friday night of closet critique at your place and the next at hers.
First, rescue your loved and forgotten possessions from the dark depth of your wardrobe, then try on and assess every garment you own. Ask yourself: How can I make it look better? Does a sleeve need to be shortened? Hem taken up? Shape altered? Fluff removed? Dry cleaners visited? Colour changed? Buttons swapped? Belt updated? Polish given?
With a bit of patience and imagination you can turn old favourites into first class creations without spending much more than your time.

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE GOOD GROOMING

Your hair and your hands are the crown jewels in the kingdom of first class dressing. Whatever your financial position, you need to take a good care of them. It doesn’t mean you have to become a regular at a local nail bar; a D.I.Y manicure and hand cream will ensure you offer a pleasant handshake. Think of your hands as a giveaway to your life. Are you a labourer or a professional? A school girl or a businesswoman?
Your hair, though, is a different story – D.I.Y is not recommended. Don’t be afraid to spend a little more on a good cut. Your hairstyle is a hint to your character. Do I see your eyes or are they hidden under unruly night-club tresses? Do I hear what you are saying, or does your broom-like hairdo talk louder than you do?

EMBRACE THE SALES

Love them or hate them, sales might be the way to go when your finances are flimsy. To bag the best bargains, however, you need to have perseverance, clear focus and a sharp mind. Concentrate on the things you need, not the discounts you want.
When your heart rate is accelerating over a $900 jacket (now only $100!) take a deep breath and ask yourself:

• Do I love it madly and need it badly?
• If I had the money, would I buy it for the full price without a second thought?
• Do I have three other things in my wardrobe I can wear it with?

If the answer is no, compose yourself and walk away. Let some other bargain hunter experience the post-purchase remorse.

ACCESSORISE FOR SUCCESS

Like moving into a new place; it’s only when you unpack the picture frames, ornaments and other personal touches that it feels like home. A wardrobe on a budget is based on the same philosophy. Things like jackets, pants or skirts are your property investments. Shirts, ties or jewelry are your change-the-look dollar savers.
When it comes to accessories, do you know ‘the rules’? First it’s the scale or size of things you wear. Small earrings are for petite girls. Large bags are for bigger ladies. If you are of an average build, opt for accessories of an average size.
Then, it’s your face and body line. If you have angular features (think angular face shape and/or straight body) go for angular jewelry and straighter bag shapes. If you are soft and rounded in your face and curvaceous in your body, opt for rounded jewelry and pouch style carry-alls.
Finally, it’s placing accessories strategically on your body to attract attention to your face. Loud shoes draw attention down; no good when you’re trying to connect. A fabulous scarf or necklace gets attention up; handy for ease of communication.

SOME THINGS ARE NOT NEGOTIABLE

It’s true; your shoes are seen as a signal of your personal success. The same goes for your handbag and watch; they are the signs of one’s professional achievement.
It’s different when you are young – call it the beauty of youth! You can easily change between a myriad of affordable handbags that have a short shelf life, you can opt for a tasteful but modest watch and not worry too much about your shoes besides polishing them every now and then.
However, as you get better with age, so should your signature pieces. There are few things that a true lady should have in her life:

• A designer bag – think neutral colour, minimum detailing and a timeless style.
• Two pairs of outstanding shoes – a quality make with good leather in a simple shape.
• An elegant watch – gold or silver finish, in proportion to your body size and a reputable brand.

The bad news: You can’t fake it. Don’t try to fool a discerning eye. Good news? You’ll save money. One decent bag is better than five mediocre bags. Don’t let little things flop you in a big way.

SOMETHING TO PONDER

It takes as much effort to look ordinary as it does to look extraordinary. You need to become innovative, tenacious and determined to make the best of what you’ve got.