Shopping on the #BidenBudget
By Jayme Chandler Franklin and Isabelle Redfield
Last year may have been #HotGirlSummer, but, this year, we’re on the #BidenBudget. After the Biden administration spoiled the economic boom of the Trump presidency, Americans now face historic gas prices, 9.1 percent inflation, and a recession. While we’re no longer living in the era of Trump tax cuts and $2 gas, The Conservateur has the tips for shopping smart while budgeting for the next two years of Biden.
You don’t need to break the bank to build a stylish wardrobe. In Biden’s America, we’re skipping Saks and Neiman’s and heading straight to Zara and Mango. The key to successfully shopping budget brands is to be highly selective and very shrewd. While fast-fashion stores may not have perfectly curated windows like Bergdorf Goodman’s, we promise, with patience and a good eye, there’s always a few hidden gems to find.
When shopping budget brands, it’s always a good rule of thumb to stick to the basics. The simpler the garment, the harder it is to distinguish between designer and fast-fashion. While there are exceptions, sticking to monochromatic color palettes and basic pieces is the best way to pull off a budget brand.
While the collections from fashion houses and runways were already unaffordable, now that many Americans are struggling to buy household commodities let alone luxury goods, it’s not the time to buy designer. However, dupes will help keep you on your #BidenBudget.
Remember, there’s a difference between “fakes” and “dupes.” Fakes are the knockoff bags sold on New York City’s Canal Street. Dupes, however, are in much better taste and don't compromise the integrity of the look. Dupes of sunglass frames, shoes, popular dress silhouettes, and viral purses like the Bottega Veneta pouch exist all over the market. Just remember: dupes should always be “inspired by” not “a replica of.”
If shopping fast-fashion isn’t your scene or you’re craving your favorite high-end brands, there’s still ways to cut back on costs. Consigning is the best way to shop at a reasonable price without sacrificing the quality or label. While we love Ella Rue in Washington, D.C. for all our second-hand shopping needs, for girls that don’t live in the nation’s capital or have a favorite local boutique, TheRealReal is the best way to consign online.
Whatever brand or price point you’re targeting, it’s important to curate your closet carefully. Build your capsule wardrobe based on versatility by shopping a consistent style and color palette. An artist shirt or oversized blazer can be layered over an outfit or belted to become a dress. A simple LBD can be accessorized and dressed up or down to be worn for every occasion, time and time again. A wardrobe composed of interchangeable items can help maximize your number of outfits without increasing the amount of items you need to buy.
While America may seem to be a sinking ship under Biden’s failed leadership, you shouldn’t sacrifice your style. Be financially savvy this season while you shop on the #BidenBudget.
