Chasing trends isn’t just about clothes. It’s tied to our emotions and psychology, and with social media, it’s hard to avoid.
Spend just five minutes on Instagram or TikTok, and you’ll spot it: influencers wearing the season’s must-have jacket, outfits tagged for easy shopping, and limited-edition items everyone seems to want. Even friends and coworkers can add to the pressure when they show up in new clothes that make you rethink your own wardrobe.
Seeing all this all the time creates a sense of urgency. It can feel as if you don’t buy now, you’ll miss out. That’s often how overspending begins. Studies on consumer behaviour show that fashion is one of the top areas for impulse buying in the UK, especially among younger people. These purchases are usually driven by feelings such as excitement, aspiration, or fear of missing out, rather than by actual need. That’s why trend-based items often end up unworn at the back of the closet.
The problem isn’t trends themselves. It’s how fast they change and how costly it is to keep up. Shopping just for trends often leads to:
You don’t need to swear off trends completely, you just need to be selective. Here’s what actually works:
The most stylish people I know don’t always buy new clothes. They use the same pieces in creative ways, year after year, because they know what suits them. Ironically, moving away from trends often helps you look more polished, and it can save you a lot of money too!
10 tips to help you look good for less
Looking good doesn’t always have to push you into the red. There are plenty of ways to get what you need and save a few quid. Here are 10 tips to give you a little inspiration to make some money-saving changes, including insight by Holly Watkins, fashion expert and founder of pre-loved One Scoop Store.
1 Set a budget
We’re starting with something super obvious, but it’s also incredibly important. Before you head out on a shopping spree, set yourself a budget and stick to it.
It’s so easy to see something that’s slightly out of budget and just go for it, but if you do this a few times you suddenly have a rather scary-looking bank balance. Make sure you dedicate your budget so it focuses more on your needs and less on your wants. You can also learn how to create an affordable capsule wardrobe.
2 Wait for the sales
Stores regularly hold sales throughout the year, so try to plan your shopping trips to coincide with these.
It could be January, Black Friday, summer… the next sale is usually not too far away. If you can hold out just a little longer, it’s a great way to grab a bargain.
3 Focus on quality over quantity
It’s absolutely fine to have luxury clothes in your wardrobe. In fact, we encourage it! If you focus on quality over quantity, not only will you spend less, you’ll have a tidier wardrobe filled with clothes that will last you a long time.
It’ll also help you forge your own personal style.
Holly Watkins says ‘It’s all about having a few key basics which you can mix and match together - a bit of a capsule wardrobe to make things easier when you are getting ready. Start with a good pair of jeans, (vintage Levis are always great) a couple of cotton t-shirts, one or two wool jumpers, an easy fitting shirt which can be layered, and some black trousers which can be dressed up or down.’
4 Accesorise
You can breathe new life into your outfit by going hard on accessories.
Things like scarves, belts, costume jewellery and bags can transform your wardrobe and you don’t need to spend a fortune in the process.
Holly knows a thing or two about using accessories to your advantage, saying, ‘Accessories can be really important to elevate your look. Add chunky scarves, a pop of colour from socks or tights and statement jewellery to instantly update your outfit.’
5 Take care of your clothes
It’s not that you’re six again and spend your days rolling around outside, but it’s important to take care of your clothes so they last.
Pay attention to the instructions on the label about how to wash items properly, dry them thoroughly, store them somewhere dry and steam them if necessary.
6 Don't be afraid to browse charity shops
Charity shops can be a mystical cave of wonders when it comes to finding hidden treasures. Sometimes, charity shops get a reputation for only having old clothes, whereas they’re actually brilliant places to find bargains. You’ll often find diamonds (not literally) hidden away, so next time you go shopping pop in and see what you can find.
Similarly, Facebook Marketplace and other sites or apps where people sell their pre-loved stuff are always worth keeping a close eye on. Discover how AI apps are changing the savings game with our guide on 10 cool ways AI can save you money.
When it comes to charity shops, Holly has some sage advice to make sure you get the most out of the experience. ‘Have a list and stick to it. Remember, with second-hand shopping, you might not be able to find exactly what you want immediately, but it’ll be worth the wait to find the perfect piece. Look for good quality fabrics and brands that would normally be out of your budget, that way they tend to last much longer.’
7 Establish a skincare routine
Looking good isn’t limited to what you wear. If your skin looks good, you usually won’t care about the clothes on your back and you’d feel great wearing an old bin liner.
Establish and maintain a skincare routine that works for you, to help keep those spots, dry patches and blemishes at bay.
8 Learn to sew
You might not be interested in a career as a fashion designer, but basic sewing skills can go a heck of a long way. Replace buttons, repair holes, fix hems or make additions to outfits you think need a new lease of life.
If sewing feels intimidating, start small:
- Learn how to sew on a button.
- Practise fixing a straight hem.
- Use iron-on hemming tape as a beginner shortcut.
- Keep a small repair kit in your drawer for quick fixes.
Even basic knowledge can save you from unnecessary replacements, and from paying for alterations every time something needs tweaking.
9 Shop out of season
If you’re keen to remain trendy and can stand to only be a little behind the curve, wait for end-of-season sales, when retailers are more likely to offer big discounts so they can make room for the next season.
For example, wait until the end of winter before buying a new coat, as stores start to stock for incoming warmer weather. For inspiration for the warmer months, take a look at our trending summer accessories guide.
10 Use discount codes online at your favourite retailers
Instead of heading into your local town or city centre, it can be far more economical to shop online. Not only do some retailers offer exclusive online discounts, but you can also make additional savings by using discount codes which you can find on sites like ours right here at Savoo.
Ready to save money but not compromise on looking good? Browse fashion and health and beauty discount codes to help your money go further. Find up-to-date discounts for Levi's, Next, boohoo, Newlook, Dermatica, Ren, and many more brands.
Where can I get fashion & beauty discounts?
Whether you’re rebuilding your wardrobe from scratch or just looking to refresh it without overspending, I’ve scoured Savoo’s trusted retail partners to find cheap online clothing stores, and bring you the best fashion and beauty brands that deliver real style for less.
Looking good on a budget - Final thoughts
Looking good on a budget doesn’t mean you have to give up what you love. It’s about making fashion fit your life. When you stop following every trend and start shopping with purpose, style feels more fun and less overwhelming.
If you remember one thing, let it be this. You don’t need more clothes, just smarter choices. Once you start making those choices, looking good on a budget feels less like a sacrifice and more like a skill you’ll use forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3-3-3 clothing rule?
The 3-3-3 rule offers a bold way to simplify your wardrobe. You select three tops, three bottoms, and three pairs of shoes, then mix and match them to create as many different outfits as possible. This approach helps you focus on versatile basics rather than always buying new clothes. The rule reduces decision fatigue, makes each item you own more useful, and curbs impulse shopping. With fewer choices, you see which clothes really fit your life and style. Use the 3-3-3 rule to refresh your wardrobe, look good on a budget, or shop with more purpose.
Is it worth buying second-hand clothes?
Second-hand clothes are often much cheaper than buying new, and you can sometimes pick up really good-quality pieces that would normally be out of your budget. Charity shops, resale apps and vintage stores regularly stock items that have barely been worn, especially if you’re patient and willing to have a proper look through. It also makes sense from a practical standpoint. Clothes that already exist don’t need to be manufactured again, and that means less waste.
How do I get healthy hair on a budget?
You don’t have to spend a lot to keep your hair healthy. Regular care matters more than expensive products. Choose a gentle shampoo that suits your hair, use conditioner, limit heat styling, and trim split ends regularly. Products from stores like Savers and Wilko.com can work just as well as salon brands if you use them properly and avoid harsh treatments or washing too often.
Healthy hair is the result of good habits, not pricey products. Protect your hair from heat, avoid tight styles that can cause breakage, use a deep conditioner once a week, and eat foods rich in protein and iron. With less damage and a simple routine, your hair can become stronger, shinier, and grow better without spending much.
Social pressure and chasing fashion trends
Chasing trends isn’t just about clothes. It’s tied to our emotions and psychology, and with social media, it’s hard to avoid.
Spend just five minutes on Instagram or TikTok, and you’ll spot it: influencers wearing the season’s must-have jacket, outfits tagged for easy shopping, and limited-edition items everyone seems to want. Even friends and coworkers can add to the pressure when they show up in new clothes that make you rethink your own wardrobe.
Seeing all this all the time creates a sense of urgency. It can feel as if you don’t buy now, you’ll miss out. That’s often how overspending begins. Studies on consumer behaviour show that fashion is one of the top areas for impulse buying in the UK, especially among younger people. These purchases are usually driven by feelings such as excitement, aspiration, or fear of missing out, rather than by actual need. That’s why trend-based items often end up unworn at the back of the closet.
The problem with chasing trends
The problem isn’t trends themselves. It’s how fast they change and how costly it is to keep up. Shopping just for trends often leads to:
How to step off the trend treadmill (without feeling boring)
You don’t need to swear off trends completely, you just need to be selective. Here’s what actually works:
The most stylish people I know don’t always buy new clothes. They use the same pieces in creative ways, year after year, because they know what suits them. Ironically, moving away from trends often helps you look more polished, and it can save you a lot of money too!
10 tips to help you look good for less
Looking good doesn’t always have to push you into the red. There are plenty of ways to get what you need and save a few quid. Here are 10 tips to give you a little inspiration to make some money-saving changes, including insight by Holly Watkins, fashion expert and founder of pre-loved One Scoop Store.
1 Set a budget
We’re starting with something super obvious, but it’s also incredibly important. Before you head out on a shopping spree, set yourself a budget and stick to it.
It’s so easy to see something that’s slightly out of budget and just go for it, but if you do this a few times you suddenly have a rather scary-looking bank balance. Make sure you dedicate your budget so it focuses more on your needs and less on your wants. You can also learn how to create an affordable capsule wardrobe.
2 Wait for the sales
Stores regularly hold sales throughout the year, so try to plan your shopping trips to coincide with these.
It could be January, Black Friday, summer… the next sale is usually not too far away. If you can hold out just a little longer, it’s a great way to grab a bargain.
3 Focus on quality over quantity
It’s absolutely fine to have luxury clothes in your wardrobe. In fact, we encourage it! If you focus on quality over quantity, not only will you spend less, you’ll have a tidier wardrobe filled with clothes that will last you a long time.
It’ll also help you forge your own personal style.
Holly Watkins says ‘It’s all about having a few key basics which you can mix and match together - a bit of a capsule wardrobe to make things easier when you are getting ready. Start with a good pair of jeans, (vintage Levis are always great) a couple of cotton t-shirts, one or two wool jumpers, an easy fitting shirt which can be layered, and some black trousers which can be dressed up or down.’
4 Accesorise
You can breathe new life into your outfit by going hard on accessories.
Things like scarves, belts, costume jewellery and bags can transform your wardrobe and you don’t need to spend a fortune in the process.
Holly knows a thing or two about using accessories to your advantage, saying, ‘Accessories can be really important to elevate your look. Add chunky scarves, a pop of colour from socks or tights and statement jewellery to instantly update your outfit.’
5 Take care of your clothes
It’s not that you’re six again and spend your days rolling around outside, but it’s important to take care of your clothes so they last.
Pay attention to the instructions on the label about how to wash items properly, dry them thoroughly, store them somewhere dry and steam them if necessary.
6 Don't be afraid to browse charity shops
Charity shops can be a mystical cave of wonders when it comes to finding hidden treasures. Sometimes, charity shops get a reputation for only having old clothes, whereas they’re actually brilliant places to find bargains. You’ll often find diamonds (not literally) hidden away, so next time you go shopping pop in and see what you can find.
Similarly, Facebook Marketplace and other sites or apps where people sell their pre-loved stuff are always worth keeping a close eye on. Discover how AI apps are changing the savings game with our guide on 10 cool ways AI can save you money.
When it comes to charity shops, Holly has some sage advice to make sure you get the most out of the experience. ‘Have a list and stick to it. Remember, with second-hand shopping, you might not be able to find exactly what you want immediately, but it’ll be worth the wait to find the perfect piece. Look for good quality fabrics and brands that would normally be out of your budget, that way they tend to last much longer.’
7 Establish a skincare routine
Looking good isn’t limited to what you wear. If your skin looks good, you usually won’t care about the clothes on your back and you’d feel great wearing an old bin liner.
Establish and maintain a skincare routine that works for you, to help keep those spots, dry patches and blemishes at bay.
8 Learn to sew
You might not be interested in a career as a fashion designer, but basic sewing skills can go a heck of a long way. Replace buttons, repair holes, fix hems or make additions to outfits you think need a new lease of life.
If sewing feels intimidating, start small:
Even basic knowledge can save you from unnecessary replacements, and from paying for alterations every time something needs tweaking.
9 Shop out of season
If you’re keen to remain trendy and can stand to only be a little behind the curve, wait for end-of-season sales, when retailers are more likely to offer big discounts so they can make room for the next season.
For example, wait until the end of winter before buying a new coat, as stores start to stock for incoming warmer weather. For inspiration for the warmer months, take a look at our trending summer accessories guide.
10 Use discount codes online at your favourite retailers
Instead of heading into your local town or city centre, it can be far more economical to shop online. Not only do some retailers offer exclusive online discounts, but you can also make additional savings by using discount codes which you can find on sites like ours right here at Savoo.
Ready to save money but not compromise on looking good? Browse fashion and health and beauty discount codes to help your money go further. Find up-to-date discounts for Levi's, Next, boohoo, Newlook, Dermatica, Ren, and many more brands.
Where can I get fashion & beauty discounts?
Whether you’re rebuilding your wardrobe from scratch or just looking to refresh it without overspending, I’ve scoured Savoo’s trusted retail partners to find cheap online clothing stores, and bring you the best fashion and beauty brands that deliver real style for less.
Looking good on a budget - Final thoughts
Looking good on a budget doesn’t mean you have to give up what you love. It’s about making fashion fit your life. When you stop following every trend and start shopping with purpose, style feels more fun and less overwhelming.
If you remember one thing, let it be this. You don’t need more clothes, just smarter choices. Once you start making those choices, looking good on a budget feels less like a sacrifice and more like a skill you’ll use forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3-3-3 clothing rule?
The 3-3-3 rule offers a bold way to simplify your wardrobe. You select three tops, three bottoms, and three pairs of shoes, then mix and match them to create as many different outfits as possible. This approach helps you focus on versatile basics rather than always buying new clothes. The rule reduces decision fatigue, makes each item you own more useful, and curbs impulse shopping. With fewer choices, you see which clothes really fit your life and style. Use the 3-3-3 rule to refresh your wardrobe, look good on a budget, or shop with more purpose.
Is it worth buying second-hand clothes?
Second-hand clothes are often much cheaper than buying new, and you can sometimes pick up really good-quality pieces that would normally be out of your budget. Charity shops, resale apps and vintage stores regularly stock items that have barely been worn, especially if you’re patient and willing to have a proper look through. It also makes sense from a practical standpoint. Clothes that already exist don’t need to be manufactured again, and that means less waste.
How do I get healthy hair on a budget?
You don’t have to spend a lot to keep your hair healthy. Regular care matters more than expensive products. Choose a gentle shampoo that suits your hair, use conditioner, limit heat styling, and trim split ends regularly. Products from stores like Savers and Wilko.com can work just as well as salon brands if you use them properly and avoid harsh treatments or washing too often.
Healthy hair is the result of good habits, not pricey products. Protect your hair from heat, avoid tight styles that can cause breakage, use a deep conditioner once a week, and eat foods rich in protein and iron. With less damage and a simple routine, your hair can become stronger, shinier, and grow better without spending much.