Build a Wardrobe on a Budget (When You Have Expensive Taste)

By Lauren Rose Correa, October 24, 2025

Build a Wardrobe on a Budget: Blonde woman in three different outfits

One of the challenges I’ve faced as I build a wardrobe is that my taste in clothing is much bougier than my budget. I like things that are sturdy, have a great fit, and truly flatter my body type. However, most inexpensive clothes are not well made and don’t really accomplish the vision I have in my head.

Do you identify with this problem? Is your taste more expensive than your budget? If so, you may be wondering how you can create a wardrobe that meets your standards without breaking the bank. Over the years, I’ve been able to put together a classic wardrobe that suits me and my style without overspending on designer clothes.

How to Build a Wardrobe on a Budget

Here are my best tips for how you can build a wardrobe on a budget!

Don’t Sleep on Thrift Stores

You can find so many high-quality and even designer clothing for less at thrift stores or consignment shops. You may need to do some digging and make multiple trips to the thrift store to acquire a wardrobe. But if you are persistent, you can really find some beautiful things. Here are some tips for thrift store shopping to help you if you’re a beginner.

Purchase a Few Investment Pieces to Anchor Your Wardrobe

You may need to invest in some newer pieces to help build your wardrobe. The main pieces I like to invest in are jeans, shoes, and comfortable bras that work well under clothes. I like to buy Madewell jeans brand new because I find their fit works well for me. I also don’t like buying shoes that show any signs of wear. And bras are a category that I would never want to buy used! You may have other things you like to buy new, like a nice blazer or a coat or jacket. It’s really up to preference and what your individual clothing needs are.

Get Things Tailored

Don’t be afraid to tailor your clothes – even if they are thrifted. Getting things tailored ensures proper fit and makes things look more expensive. If you save money by thrifting, you will have room in your budget to invest in tailoring. If you have sewing skills, you may even be able to perform some basic changes on your own. I have been able to take in some dresses and pencil skirts successfully without hiring a tailor!

Have a Plan to Maximize Your Clothing Budget

To truly maximize your clothing budget, you need to have a plan. Create a Pinterest board for inspiration and create a list of items you need to purchase to enact your vision. Plan based on how you will put together full outfits. Having a plan helps you allocate exactly what you should be investing in and prevents you from buying one-off items that don’t go with the rest of your wardrobe.

Make the Most of What You Already Have

Go through your existing closet and try on what you already have. Are there any pieces you could purchase that would make existing items more wearable? Would tailoring any of these items make them work better on you? If items truly aren’t working in your wardrobe, consider selling them online on eBay or Poshmark. You can put your earnings toward your new clothes!

Build a Wardrobe: How About You?

Do you enjoy the challenge of putting together a wardrobe on a budget? What’s your favorite item you’ve scored for your closet? Share it in the comments!