Hadley's Fashion Finds: Instant Updates on a Budget

I am always looking for ways to update my wardrobe without spending a lot of money (or energy), especially during the holiday season when I am shopping for all the other important people in my life. I have come up with a few quick fixes that can get you through those "I hate everything in my closet days."

Shoe Clips
Take any pair of heels or ballet flats and add a shoe clip to get an instantly hip (and expensive looking) style. You could buy one set of clips and wear them with multiple pairs of shoes. The Shoeworthy website has some beauties and most are only $25 a pair. My favorites are the Flora Red, Goldilocks Element, Rhinestone Blossom and Black Pearl Bow. Also, check out Absolutely Audrey. If you get sick of wearing it on your shoes you could clip onto a coat lapel instead.

Shortening Jeans or a Skirt
If you are like me, you probably have two categories of denim in your closet - the pairs you keep a few inches longer to wear with heels and those you shorten to wear with flats. I recommend that when you get bored of your high heel denim, have them shortened to wear with flats. I recently did this with a few pairs and it instantly felt like I had a brand new wardrobe. Most tailors in my area charge $10 to shorten jeans which is a steal compared to buying a whole new pair! You could do the same with a skirt by taking a longer knee-length pencil skirt and have it shortened into a mini that would look great with tights.

Buttons
Take an older jacket or sweater and replace the buttons with newer styles. You will be surprised to see what a difference buttons make. For instance, take an old pea coat with solid buttons and replace with gold ones for a military inspired look. If the thought of sewing makes you uneasy, bring to a tailor for a cheap fix (NYC tailors charge $2/button). Craft stores like JoAnn Fabrics and Michaels have a wide variety. Also, check out my favorite - Etsy and search for buttons, or if you live in NYC go to Tender Buttons.

Accessorize
Accessories are an easy way to update any old outfit. There are so many places you can buy cheap jewelry, belts and scarves. For jewelry look to H&M, Forever 21, Francesca's Collections, Soho Accessories, J.Crew Outlets, or my personal favorite - the NYC street vendor selling $5 earrings.
Forever 21 Pearl Collar - $15.90

If you are looking for a new belt to spice up a dress or top, look to NY&Co., Charlotte Russe, Forever 21, and Nordstrom BP (in stores they have lots of belts).

NY&Co. Wide Croc Stretch Belt - $13.96