Earthy Tones

Photographed by: Jit Wei

Fast fashion is all the rage today - branded clothing items that are easier on the wallet and on your consciousness! My go-to brands for anything trendy and affordable are typically The Editor's Market (I think about half my wardrobe consists of TEM clothing, yikes), Zara, Asos, and the occasional H&M. Sometimes, I feel the need to cut down on spending and I think a lot of students resonate with this sentiment. Therefore, I tend to invest in quality classic and basic pieces from these brands. On the flip side, when it comes to fashion hypes, I find myself reluctant to splurge if I know these trends will come and go.

That's where budget shopping comes in. There is a soft spot in my heart for culottes, although sometimes I'm a lil' wary of them especially if they make me look shorter than I already am... *sad face* This pair of mustard brown culottes was snagged at just twelve bucks from - wait for it - Bugis St! The renowned budget fashion market is not as ah lian as you think it is, okay! And in the midst of my hectic study week, a beacon of light shined upon me in the form of my new suede mules!!! My parcel from Taobao (yes) finally arrived two weeks ago and I was absolutely stoked to wear them. I've always been a big fan of mules for their versatility. They are very 90s of course - I remember seeing my mum wear them all the time when I was a kid. They have been making a comeback recently, just like many other 90s trends (love!). This pair I purchased comes in a light shade of tan.

And if that's not budget enough for you, my lovely straw clutch bag and lilac scarf both belonged to my parents, who passed them on to me. My parents have always had a rather classic sense of style, and they invested in pieces that remain fashionable and unique even two to three decades later. The straw bag is truly one of the favourite items that I own, and according to my mum, was a budget purchase too! 

This goes to show that you need not necessarily splurge in order to assemble a good outfit. Sometimes, you gotta be kind to your wallet. If you look hard enough, budget stores may just have what you're looking for. Rummage the back of your wardrobe (or your parents') and you may find something forgotten that could work in your favour.