Image consultant Eve Roth Lindsay shows up how to look chic on the cheap. For more information, check out www.savvystyle.com
The credit crunch effect
“We offer everything from colour consultations to personal shopping, but our number one service at the moment is the ‘Wardrobe Workout’. People are making do with what they’ve got. They want to save money.”
Edit your wardrobe
“Before you even think about hitting the shops, clear out your wardrobe. I know it’s much easier to go shopping and keep adding to the mess, but you end up with a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. The only things you should have in your wardrobe are things that you’re wearing this season and things that fit you now. Everything else should be stored, sold or donated to charity.”
Be prepared
“Before you go shopping, make outfits out of what you already have and draw up a list of what you’re missing. This way, you don’t end up blowing money on pieces that don’t match anything else in your wardrobe.”
Bag a bargain
“I’m a big fan of stores like G.O.D. – they are like a less expensive Shanghai Tang and it’s not just homewares, they do clothing, accessories and shoes. Instead of Lane Crawford, try stores like Club Monaco or Giordano Concepts. For a cheap, quick fix to update your wardrobe, I recommend places like Zara, H&M, Mango and Cotton On.”
Plan ahead
“Planning is the number one way to save money. Don’t rush in and impulse buy – always go shopping armed with a list and a purpose.”
Set a budget
“Know your budget and prioritize. If you wear jeans every day, it’s worth spending a couple of thousand dollars on a great pair. Dropping a lot of money on something you’ll only wear once or twice, like an evening gown, is one of the biggest mistakes people make.”
Classic hits
“Buy colours and cuts that flatter you rather than wearing seasonal trends top to toe. It’s better to look good and feel comfortable and then add a touch of whatever is on trend.”
Vintage
“Vintage shopping can be a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to save money and pick up something truly original.”
Smart shopping
“Sale time is great in Hong Kong and it’s great for people who don’t care about whether things are the newest or latest. If you simply love beautiful, quality pieces, you can snap up some incredible bargains. After Chinese New year, you can snap up winter classics like a beautiful leather jacket, boots or fabulous knits. At the end of summer, keep your eyes out for heavily discounted swimsuits and beachwear.”
Good things come in small packages
“There are dozens of tiny boutiques run by designers, stocking one-of-a-kind items – go out and browse SoHo, Causeway Bay and the Beverley Centre in TST. You can ask for discounts in these stores, and they often have unique pieces that you won’t see on anyone else.”
Accessorize
“Adding accessories is a great way to look fresh for less – buy a handful of pashminas in different colours, some crazy belts or statement jewelry. For a quick fix, try the Lanes in Central (Li Yuen Street East/West) – I recommend Donna’s for belts, Vicky’s for shoes and Sam Wu for handbags.”
The credit crunch effect
“We offer everything from colour consultations to personal shopping, but our number one service at the moment is the ‘Wardrobe Workout’. People are making do with what they’ve got. They want to save money.”
Edit your wardrobe
“Before you even think about hitting the shops, clear out your wardrobe. I know it’s much easier to go shopping and keep adding to the mess, but you end up with a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. The only things you should have in your wardrobe are things that you’re wearing this season and things that fit you now. Everything else should be stored, sold or donated to charity.”
Be prepared
“Before you go shopping, make outfits out of what you already have and draw up a list of what you’re missing. This way, you don’t end up blowing money on pieces that don’t match anything else in your wardrobe.”
Bag a bargain
“I’m a big fan of stores like G.O.D. – they are like a less expensive Shanghai Tang and it’s not just homewares, they do clothing, accessories and shoes. Instead of Lane Crawford, try stores like Club Monaco or Giordano Concepts. For a cheap, quick fix to update your wardrobe, I recommend places like Zara, H&M, Mango and Cotton On.”
Plan ahead
“Planning is the number one way to save money. Don’t rush in and impulse buy – always go shopping armed with a list and a purpose.”
Set a budget
“Know your budget and prioritize. If you wear jeans every day, it’s worth spending a couple of thousand dollars on a great pair. Dropping a lot of money on something you’ll only wear once or twice, like an evening gown, is one of the biggest mistakes people make.”
Classic hits
“Buy colours and cuts that flatter you rather than wearing seasonal trends top to toe. It’s better to look good and feel comfortable and then add a touch of whatever is on trend.”
Vintage
“Vintage shopping can be a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to save money and pick up something truly original.”
Smart shopping
“Sale time is great in Hong Kong and it’s great for people who don’t care about whether things are the newest or latest. If you simply love beautiful, quality pieces, you can snap up some incredible bargains. After Chinese New year, you can snap up winter classics like a beautiful leather jacket, boots or fabulous knits. At the end of summer, keep your eyes out for heavily discounted swimsuits and beachwear.”
Good things come in small packages
“There are dozens of tiny boutiques run by designers, stocking one-of-a-kind items – go out and browse SoHo, Causeway Bay and the Beverley Centre in TST. You can ask for discounts in these stores, and they often have unique pieces that you won’t see on anyone else.”
Accessorize
“Adding accessories is a great way to look fresh for less – buy a handful of pashminas in different colours, some crazy belts or statement jewelry. For a quick fix, try the Lanes in Central (Li Yuen Street East/West) – I recommend Donna’s for belts, Vicky’s for shoes and Sam Wu for handbags.”
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