First, educate yourself. "Be hungry for knowledge—read fashion magazines, look at style websites, research brands, check out the trends, understand cut, color, fabric and form. The more you know the better you can op-shop,” De Lanty recommends. We totally agree with this one. Research the history of fashion and be aware of the trends from different eras. Making reference to the decades is all part of the fun.
Second, DIY and customise. "You don't have to pay hundreds of dollars for ripped jeans or a bejeweled clutch when you can make it yourself," De Lanty says. Our editors have been addicted to cuffing, hemming, and fraying jeans without the help of professional tailors. You don't have to be the crafty type, we promise.
Third, find a good tailor. "Maybe the Chanel jacket you found has boxy shoulder pads, but if you have it altered it will still be so much cheaper than the original price tag," De Lanty suggests. When you find a special piece and have it tailored to fit you, it makes it all that much more special.
