Dress to Impress on a Budget

 

By Farnoosh Torabi, Yahoo! Finance | Financially Fit – Wed, Sep 26, 2012 6:31 PM EDT

Sometimes you want to make the best impression, whether you're interviewing for a job, going on a first date or simply wanting your wardrobe to make a statement. For those of us on a budget, here are some ideas from Taylor Jacobson, celebrity stylist on Oxygen's upcoming winter series Hollywood Unzipped. She's got great tips on to how to look like you're worth a million bucks -- even when you're not.

Stick to One Trend

One of the biggest mistakes people make when they're trying to dress to impress is piling on a ton of trendy items: prints, colors and multiple accessories. "Avoid collages," says Jacobson. "Stick to one trend... choose one and go with it," she says. Mixing basic items with something more cutting-edge will add the right kind of emphasis.

Also See: What NOT to Wear to Work

Silky Tops
Clean, simple and chic silky blouses are easy to wear to the office and out with friends. Accessorize it by adding a stylish hat or pop of color with your shoes, says Jacobson. It's an affordable staple with most blouses ranging from $25 to $80 at many stores like Zara, H&M and Loehmann's.

Also See: Designer Trends at Knock-Off Prices

Pumps With a Pop of Color

A fun pop of color in your shoe can be worth the expense. "Color is the new nude," says Jacobson. "You can use it with so many different outfits." They can dress up a black cocktail dress or get extra wear out of them with a chic pair of slacks or jeans. Jacobson recommends Sam Edelman and Aldo for inexpensive options.

Also See: Is an Expensive Haircut Worth It?

Textured Items

A textured of brocade item - pants, jacket or dress- can really elevate your appearance. The look is very rich but you can still get quality, textured pieces from affordable stores including Forever21, Zara and H&M from $50 to $100. Again, Jacobson says stick to one item, avoiding a collage of textures and patterns.

Also See: Turn Your Shopping Addiction into Cash

Black with Metallic Jewelry

Black is a great palette to accessorize and statement necklaces can really glam up your look. For added effect, try layering necklaces. Jacobson describes it as an easy look that you can have for less than $20 from retailers like Wal-Mart. Less is more so don't go for pieces that make too big of a statement. Jacobson suggests avoiding a ton of useless jewelry by shopping carefully. "Get the one piece that really speaks to you," she says.

What are some ways you're dressing to impress? Connect with me on Twitter @Farnoosh, using the hashtag #finfit.

Special thanks to our model Stephanie N. Mills for her help in our video.