As life becomes increasingly expensive, overconsumption is sparking a new wave of criticism, which is why sustainable fashion needs to be at the forefront. Not only is the constant need to produce and buy new things hurting the planet, but it’s also becoming an unviable way to live life while paying bills.
Enter: “frugal chic.”
The term was coined by TikTok content creator Mia McGrath, who broke down the ways people can stay chic without breaking the bank. In her viral video, she describes how frugal chic people operate. She says, they never give up a freebie, they use cash back, they rock bare nails, they look for discounts on beauty treatments, and they are strategic about gifts they ask for from friends and family.
All great tips, and ones that can be applied to those of us who are both trying to be chic, sticking to a budget, and thinking about our overall consumption habits and sustainable fashion. We came up with a few more ideas for the anti-consumption, frugal chic girl.
Create a moodboard
The first thing you need to do when you feel the urge to change everything about your wardrobe is to step away from the scroll. Take some time to reflect on your personal style and consider all the factors that contribute to it. Books, colors, music, and silhouettes are all part of what make our tastes, well, ours.
Shop your closet.
lolpppp popIt’s normal to look inside your closet and think that you have too much stuff and you hate all of it. It happens to the best of us. But take a step back. Chances are that after you’ve organized your thoughts on what makes a good outfit for you, you probably have some pieces that already work.
Go to the tailor or cobbler.
Ok, so you have the white button-down and the blue jeans that are similar to the style you want to recreate, but something is still not quite right. There’s a chance it might not fit you well. A tailor is like a magician, taking an ordinary garment and making it something that fits you like a glove.
Think before you hit that TikTok Shop button.
As you consider what 'chic' means to you, you may be tempted to do some research. Inevitably, you will be pushed toward shop buttons that promise the world in a t-shirt. Close the app and repeat step 2. You don’t need that shirt right now.
Paint your nails
Like McGrath points out, manicures are expensive, but manicured nails are relatively low-cost. Chic doesn’t have to mean nude or bare nails, though. Quality polish can last you months, and look just as good as
Layer some jewelry
Use your jewelry to make a statement. Things like layering necklaces, adding a few rings, or even mixing metals can be ultra-chic and easy to achieve.
