I love magazines – and their publishers love me. I cannot walk past a bookseller without buying the latest Vogue, Elle, Harpers or In Style regardless of whether it’s from Europe, America or closer to home, I just love the things!
One thing I must say I have noticed when reading these magazines is that there are many things that I previously did not know existed that I suddenly must have - who knew I couldn’t live without the latest Balanciegia handbag or Chloe dress?
These magazines are full of aspirational (for me anyway) items that I would love to own but unfortunately I don’t have the dollars for. After all, being able to buy groceries is so much more important, isn’t it?
So, what to do if your budget doesn’t quite stretch to big name designers but you love the idea of one-off or at least ‘few of’ designer pieces that are just a touch different to the items stocked in every chain store?
One of my favourite things to do is to check out the boutiques of our emerging or smaller local designers whenever I travel through the country. This way you get great clothing that is different to everyone elses’ but at a great price. When your friends enviously ask you ‘Where did you get that?’ you can reply ‘Oh, this is a ‘Josephine Bloggs’ – have you heard of her?’ The designers themselves also win because it means they can build a successful business and are able to do what they love – that is, make their clothing.
By Jackie O'Fee - Style Doctor - fashionz.co.nz
