How to dress well on a budget (without fast fashion) | Justine Leconte

How do some women always always look stylish? You don't need a lot of money to look stylish and dress well, even if you are on a budget. In this video, I give you 8 shopping and dressing tips that will help you optimize your wardrobe.
Enjoy!
Thumbs up if you liked this video!
New videos: Wednesday 5pm & Sunday 12pm (Paris/Berlin time).
Take care!
Justine
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#fashion #style

[@justineleconte]

Hi everyone! It is hard to recommend specific brands, because it depends on the availability in your country. But I did a video on how to "filter" and recognize ethical brands, a while ago. It is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmi0d62prLGJr8U. Might be a good complement to this video. Have a wonderful day! 👋🏼😊

[@NoorAlShihaby]

The most surprising thing for me in that video is learning that Zara is also fast fashion. They're much more expensive when compared with "typical" fast fashion brands like Forever 21.

[@TanjaHermann]

I also try to stay away from fast fashion but I also don't have 200 Euros to drop on a designer t-shirt. How much do you think a small ethical capsule wardrobe would cost me? Currently, I mostly own brands like Boden, Gerry Weber, Taifun, Triangle (I'm in Germany) etc. which may or may not be fast fashion? Merci!

[@vivianasanchez5368]

Thank you so much for this video and your great work on this channel. I've learn a lot thanks to you. Can you some day make a video about olive skin? Specially if it is about pale olive, it is so hard to look stiled and healthy when you're pale olive because some colors on the spectrum are very unflattering for us. And we can have warm or cool undertones as well. Anyway, this video make me feel less guilty about wearing only black and navy blue! I'll add more textures!

[@ahhhhhhlexis]

Hi Justine, I really hope you find the time to consider my question. I am quite shy, so I let my appearance to all the talking. I sport colorful hair and my fashion is heavily influenced by japanese subcultures and american subcultures throughout history. I am a broke college student and currently a wardrobe of poorly made fast fashion clothes. I do not want to support these unethical stores any longer, but I have never seen quality garments that aren't a million dollars and fit my style. Any advice?

[@raraavis7782]

ahhhhhhlexis Have you considered learning to sew? It would open up a whole world of design possibilities to you...especially in regards to altering second hand clothes to fit you and your style.

[@MermaidMoffie]

"Money can't buy taste or style" - absolutely love this!

[@justineleconte]

it is a hard truth :-)

[@rhonda5288]

A great quote, copy and paste!!!!

[@CalmVedam]

Totally agree :)

[@Ingrid0410]

Hi Sheldon and so true! Money cannot buy good taste or style! Such a truth! You can have a ton of money and still have poor and awful taste. ie., these rich women who come in the nail salon, and think fake nails and their LV handbag, gives them taste. Horrendeous!

[@louise-yo7kz]

sheldon michaels She is right

[@ioanaignat5216]

I heard once the expression ' I'm too poor to buy cheap stuff'. I think it applies here

[@justineleconte]

+Ioana Ignat yes, that's a good way of putting it!

[@julijakeit]

oh yes! definitely! seeing people carrying full bags of cheap fast brand items in their both hands every weekend just makes me tick because same people will often complain they cannot afford anything more expensive. bad quality clothing, shoes, bags and accessories cost much more in the longer run! i've made that mistake, learned from it and stay clear of fast fashion. buying big names for the sake of a logo also makes little sense these days, so many designers became just eager to save on quality as any fast brand, they've become the 'fast brand' for the rich.

[@maisoncasteras]

Lo barato sale caro

[@katerinamudrova7928]

A lot of people don't realize but it's so true! I used to buy new e.g. H&m clothing almost every month and they would fall apart, pill or get misshapen in few months so I had to buy new ones soon. Now I think beforehand about everything Im going to buy before I go to the store and choose few new good quality pieces I miss in my wardrobe ( which doesn't need to be that expensive, I'm a student and buy a lot of stuff second hand) while the quality basics are still intact and beautiful after several years....I save a LOT of money 💰

[@Cccaaaz]

Agreed!

[@abbychu6933]

1. Clean and lean 2. Solid colors > prints 3. Aim to combine and layer 4. Loose > skin-tight 5. $ on basics 6. Rely on your color palette and style 7. Get different textures AND colors 8. Take care of your current clothes

[@lilybosnick4541]

lovely summary! thanks!

[@jacqueline8559]

She just said all of that🤔

[@retnohapsari828]

It’s a summary...

[@karenkranz2682]

@@retnohapsari828 and a great little "cheat sheet" to take along when we shop!

[@e.r.4077]

Really good video series. THANKS.

[@AA-hy6nb]

My late mother,- God bless her soul! - has always been ideally dressed,- even though on a budget. How did she do it? Simple. She used to order from a local tailor one or two pieces of clothing per year, choosing the material - something natural&luxurious - and design herself. So, most of her clothes were made to measure and therefore fit her perfectly. Colors&textures, which were chosen by her personally, emphasized her eye&hair color, made her skin look flawless and enhanced her beauty. She always looked like a Queen, and I have never seen a woman more elegant, than her. And an extra bonus,- if every community member order just one-two high-quality items per year,- thanks to such orders local tailors, who have necessary skills, and who work and pay taxes in your country, can survive. So it is a win-win situation.

[@MesRevesEnRose]

Your gma basically wore couture. No wonder she looked fabulous. 😎

[@pippysmama7639]

What a fabulous thing to do! I will try and take her lead on that! RIP to a wonderful fashionista!

[@julijakeit]

if only more people did it! I am going to follow your mom's advice. My grandma used to sew clothing and owned a sewing machine, used to knit too. Being poor isn't the problem with people - spending money foolishly, no matter how little, is the real problem. I agree fully that supporting local community that pays taxes in your country is added extra and I have been buying local produce since years. I advice everyone who have already discovered their own style to save for good materials, dress maker and order custom made pieces.

[@katarinalkuhn9717]

I wonder how I can find a person like that. I'd like to do that.

[@TippyPuddles]

I use to sew for people. A lot of people think a garment will be cheaper if they have it made. So I quit.

[@saiphatak96]

I decided to fight fast fashion by learning to sew and hand making my entire wardrobe from thrifted/ upcycled fabrics. I learned a new skill, value the pieces more, created a capsule wardrobe and learned what makes something good quality :D Thank you for your videos, I have stopped shunning fashion as frivolous and finally embraced it as self-expression.

[@crazyYTgal]

"we have full closets and nothing to wear" that sounds very deep when you really think about it

[@clairemoffat1583]

Princess King you are so right, we are buying these items from a state of unconsciousness

[@mariaivanoff7955]

I have a very full closet and too much choice too many things to wear that I like as I have gotten older I have figured out what does and doesn't suit me and how to shop more wisely you Learn these things as you go along

[@emmaolivera3018]

I honestly feel that right now

[@AeonSaint]

Sadly that's a sign of our fast-paced living style nowadays. We don't use & care for things, we waste things. That's what the companies today teach us.

[@tomiturkki979]

I have a full closet and plenty to wear, I will choose what is clean and fit together.

[@Clarr0r404]

Hi, Justine! I personally think you give the best style advice here on KZbin without any pretentious disposition or ulterior motive. You're a true gem! I hope that your channel gains more success in the future as well as your beautiful clothing line. There is something so humble, personable, and approachable by the way you tackle topics. My fashionista younger sister is in great contrast from my own minimal look, but I've even encouraged her to subscribe to your channel in the hopes that she adopts a smarter way of dressing. I myself have used a number of your tips and I feel much more confident and classy as a result. Thank you!

[@justineleconte]

thank YOU for the advertising. And say hi to your sister :-)

[@justchillokay7138]

I agree:)

[@lynnechemeli4124]

.

[@Tiki12t4]

I am 69 years old, I come from a long line of garment makers, everything you said about clothing, quality, fashion, style, budget, cut was on point. These where things I was tought growing up. Thank you for reinforcing the principles of a Good fashion.

[@darinaangelova2882]

Also, however small the budget, however restricted the options... make sure you buy things you LIKE. Otherwise you will simply not wear them or you will not feel confident in them. Now, that would be a waste...

[@monkiram]

It sounds obvious but this is often overlooked for the sake of a "good deal". In the past I've bought items I wasn't 100% convinced of because I thought it was a good price and then I'd wear them once in a blue moon and I didn't enjoy wearing them. But in the last few years, I decided to only buy items that I feel LOVE and feel beautiful in, that way I'm excited to wear all my clothes and I'm not running out of closet space while feeling guilty about all the waste. I just feel bad for my parents who had to fund this period of trial and error 🙈😂

[@paahcoccioli]

I completely agree with you, but I'd also like to add you have to buy what looks good on you. I don't know if I'm the only one, but many times I've fallen in love with a piece and even though it didn't fit me right, or didn't compliment me at all I'd still buy it because I just liked it too much. I have quite a few things I've bought "hoping they would look nice once I lost a little weight." The trick for everything, not just fashion, is to buy with intent and conscience. When not 100% sure, wait 1 month. If at the end of the month you still like it, then go for it. Most of the time, though, you'll change your mind or completely forget!

[@arpinespringborn7319]

agree 100%

[@bobmag5058]

When Justine says, "Hi every one it's Justine", it brightens your day ☺

[@diaporto]

Definitely!

[@clairethemom]

A long time before fast fashion, I had a small wardrobe and clothes were relatively costly, especially trendy ones. Often I made clothes myself. Patterns and fabric were less expensive, maybe because more people sewed. Clothes lasted, too. What we did change often was our hair and makeup. It seems like there's less variety in hair and makeup now.

[@justineleconte]

thank you so much for sharing your experience - exactly my point...

[@tvsma]

Claire Germain Nail yes! You are right. I used to make all of my clothes in high school, some in college, and some for a while as a young working woman. Haven't made any in over 40 years. Now that I am thinking about seeing again, there are no fabric stores. :(

[@flanmaryj]

Claire Germain Nail I know many young people who are really getting into hair, makeup and sewing!

[@clairethemom]

@flanmaryj...I've noticed that, too. There's a rising tide of conscientiousness about materialism/overconsumption.

[@Ingrid0410]

Claire: When you watch old films, like Grace Kelly, Lauren Bacall, K. Hepburn films, you see classic fashion, not trendy. Your nice Hermes bag, a nice scarf, well cut trousers, and a blouse. Simple, elegant. Fast fashion has ruined real style in my opinion. Something to truly think about, thanks to Justine~

[@besionishe]

Best advise I got for saving money is never to buy 100% polyester everyday clothing. I also learned it the hard way. It looks usually quite pretty, but it will always be too hot, too humid, too cold- whatever, to wear it, due to the fabric used.

[@saammmy7]

Haha, polyester has the almost magical ability to make you sweat without actually keeping you warm...

[@silviakhan1073]

Polyester is terrible. It clings on the skin especially in plumpy people. It just looks so cheap although it comes in pretty vivid colors but I avoid like the plague even pj’s they smell ‘there’ more than others. Yuck! Lol!

[@PreciousPotat]

100% polyester makes me always feels as if I were flammable. We got a lot of Muslim people here, including special stores, and I find it really strange how it's mostly either polyester in the most atrocious colours and patterns OR pure linen.

[@margmotts5332]

Yes!

[@prittyugly86]

It really brings out the BO

[@BonJourBonJour123]

I'm in fashion industry also. I usually buy basic clothing and invest more in accessories. I keep them because they will always come back in fashion and take up little room in my wardrobe. Just the other day I got compliments on chunky earrings I bought in 1983! They were expensive at the time but I've gotten so much use out of them. I also shop at second hand shops. I can find great quality finds at a lower price.

[@rachelrobinowitz6279]

Justine, you are a class act. Thank you for the work you do. I've watched quite a few of your wonderful videos but this one touched my heart. I am a great-grandmother on a major budget, live overseas, and have a disability which makes no clothes I buy fit other than a long oversized sweater when I can find them, or long cotton knit tops that hang from the shoulders but are not fitted at all. I have to do 'surgery' on most things to try to make them more symmetrical for my body, including adjusting one leg length by 1 1/4". Sometimes I have to just wear them and feel depressed, and I do try to sew for myself simple things as often as I can if I can get fabric, but the topic of clothing/dressing has always been a challenge for me. Due to the physical asymmetry I cannot wear woven fabrics, I have to wear only knit fabrics or ones with some stretch in them, as they at least hang better and are more comfortable. You give hope and understanding and take into account that not every body is a perfect classic and you encourage us all to make the most of what we have. Thank you for not only your great wisdom, but your kind and gentle heart. I've gotten good ideas from your presentations, but nothing more valuable than your kind heart. You are appreciated!

[@janicewilliams100]

I bought a "classic" jacket in Paris over 25 years ago...(because my friend encouraged me to get it). It was expensive for me at that time: $500. US Dollars. However, I still wear it today and feel great in it.

[@justineleconte]

+Janice Williams that's one, good quality key piece! I am sure you don't regret that purchase 😁

[@MarianadeOliveiraSaitu]

So true. My family has some pieces that are about that age too, and some of them have been passed by two generations already. I used one not long ago and my friends loved it and thought it was knew hahaha.

[@janicewilliams100]

That's awesome. Don't you love that? There's a memory attached to it too!

[@Ingrid0410]

Hi Janice! That's great! Id love to hear more about the jacket! The purchases I made in Paris will always be forever in my heart. I bought some great bags there and scarves, which I have still and love them! I find shopping while traveling so much fun! When you take the item out, you think, "ah I bought this then, when and where"......so much fun!

[@janicewilliams100]

I completely agree with you...I have only been to Paris a few times, but each time I go I feel like I'm in a magical land. The jacket is like a blazer with fake fur collar. The brand is: ZAPA mellow di. It is warm enough to wear as an outer jacket in the winter time, but still fine to wear indoors. It is a bit tailored so the arms get a little tight if I gain weight. I always feel stylish when I wear it and still get compliments. It was a smart investment so many years ago. I may give it to my 24 year old daughter (who was not even born yet when i bought it)when I'm finally done with it.

[@AlyssaAKL]

Hi Justine. I just want to say that you've opened my eyes about fast fashion industry. I just felt like I couldn't afford designer clothes but didn't want to support fast fashion stores either. So, the solution for me is to try making my own clothes. Now I'm still learning but I can make simple tops and a few styles of skirts. My ultimate dream would be a wardrobe that is full the clothes I make, so there are no labels and brands. And, I will be sure that no one is treated unfairly when it comes to their labor. You've sparked my inspiration and I thank you for that.

[@GulienIthilmir]

I think that the clue of this video for me, personally, was what you said at the end of the video- when something comes fast and easy and is cheap, we do not respect that item and deem it as disposable. When we pay a little bit more, we take care of that item more and have more interest into how to properly manage it. I am right now on my own path to get rid of the fast fashion habit and your video helped me a lot with that, thank you :)

[@justineleconte]

+Gulien Ithilmir you're welcome. And good luck on your path!

[@Ingrid0410]

Thank you Gulien~ I share your sentiments exactly, instead of all these dumb KZbinrs out there with their "hauls". Quite sickening. Yes, when you buy a quality piece you love, you take care of it! I have so many clothes coming out of my ears.....working on downsizing. Great you're learning this while young Gulien, as you are a very stylish gal already~

[@GulienIthilmir]

Thank you, Dear, you are so kind! :)

[@scler8453]

I agree! The proof being as soon as a pay a bit more money for my garment I automatically hand wash it (when it's not to be dry cleaned).

[@2Cambell]

Thank you Justine! My great Auntie also held this view. She always looked impeccable, her clothes were timeless. It was always shocking to see her closet...there was not much there, but each piece was the best quality. She used scarves to accessorize, with a modest amount of jewelry. My grandma used to be annoyed that my great Auntie wore the same basics so often. She thought that her wardrobe should be more extensive and that maybe my great Uncle was stingy. Alas, I think that Grandma was a snob. 🤭 I just think that Auntie was the classiest lady that I've ever known.

[@runway5338]

Sounds like your great aunt figured out the best way to dress herself. This is what I aim for, and I love hearing more experienced and credible ppl talk about it. Would love to see your great aunts closet, do you happen to know some of the brands she bought from?

[@TRexSmile]

I love your perspective. I am currently teaching myself to sew. I put in my first zipper last night! I look at clothing so differently now when I know what it takes to construct it. It is heartbreaking to think of all the garment workers who earn so little in unsafe environments.

[@justineleconte]

+Mrs. R awesome that you learning to sew!!

[@roddiemc91]

Mrs. R -Thats great! Good for you. Sewing is a valuable skill, now you can create whatever you want.

[@TRexSmile]

Thanks Justine!

[@simplyolivia5737]

WOW. this just helped me so much. I am a 15 year old girl in high school and have been struggling to find my own personal style that I don't continuously get sick of. I always find myself buying 6 things from a store just because I thought having more and more clothes will give me more options. Then after two weeks or so, I am completely sick of the clothes I had just purchased and then I want more! It's a continuous, deadly cycle that I am going to bring to a halt right now! In a few days I vowed to myself to go out with my parent and buy a quality white classic button up blouse, neutral shirts that fit me well and that I can pair with anything, and possibly some nice jeans that I can wear with just about anything. Thank you so much, if I hadn't seen this video I probably would have continued that vicious cycle I put myself in until I finally had to wake myself up. Officially a fan of you and your channel! xoxo

[@justineleconte]

+SimplyOlivia thank you very much! Good luck 😊

[@zoeh.4421]

I get where you're coming from. I'm 16, but when I was 15 I had the same struggle. I eventually decided that I'll buy clothing that 1. Is tasteful 2. Flatters my body shape and 3. Flatters my skin tone. If it makes you look good, you'll feel confident and fantastic. My style just varies on my mood. I hope this *essay* helps 😆 I honestly did mean to keep this short.

[@lethiapage4767]

Good to learn this stuff at 15 rather than 50. You are on the right track!

[@icesilverwind]

It took me until age 22 to find styles I was comfortable with. I started out with dozens of jackets. Then I tossed the ones I hadn't worn in a year. Then I tossed the ones that wouldn't last in the wash. What's left ended up as my style, so I bought them in better quality materials.

[@BornRemaining]

@@icesilverwind Finding your style in your 20s is very common and I'm glad you got to that stage in your early 20s in stead of later.

[@LuluBowenTarot]

Thank you for bringing up the ethical angle. I think we all have that compassion, but mostly life gets in the way and we simply don't think about it - or perhaps connect the dots.

[@nalmolen9394]

I sewed for a long time and now make my own clothes. I didn't have a big budget and never bought cheapest clothes, just wore the same things over and OVER. Sewing is a great skill to have. Even if you have old clothes that are good quality but don't fit you can marry them and make something better.

[@emilyche1101]

Yesterday i was offered video by "elegant" guru who basically pushed her own style on everyone saying to trow out half of your closet because it is cheap not giving us reasons except "it is not elegant" because she said so. This video in comparason is done beautifuly to show us good way of thinking when you don't have much money. I thank you for not being condescending but instead giving great examples and giving us your piece of mind. And i just subscribed.

[@velvetindigonight]

Hi My Mum who passed recently aged 96 was always slim and fit. She had very little money and only ever had 'cheap' clothes that suited her. She cared for them as if they were the best and always changed when she came home. Truly, 'money can't buy taste or style' but genes and some discipline certainly help.

[@aspassiaman9081]

I think that most women who make videos against fast fashion and talk about capsule wardrobes, most of the times, are not reliable persons. They do a video on capsule wardrobe and then, they do a next one about all the trendy shirts and dresses etc that are the " it" thing now , aka clothes with an expiration date. So, it is very refreshing to watch videos from someone who insists all the time on the same principals and never deviates from those principals. That's how elegance is created. Thank you very much Justine for your advices.

[@justineleconte]

thank you so much :-)

[@zoeh.4421]

I love how your videos are straight to the point, no rambling, and the content is fantastic and incredibly helpful!! 💛

[@barbarabartley5092]

I look forward to your videos, Justine. I have one comment which questions the statement regarding ... don't make that "one red purchase". Why wouldn't that purchase go with many of the neutral colors in your closet??

[@jeka6756]

Great video Justine. Your video is a breath of fresh air from all of the Zaful hauls you see on KZbin. I stopped buying from fast fashion retailers awhile ago and am in the process of building a capsule wardrobe. I love all of my clothes now and I do laundry way less often 😄

[@justineleconte]

hahaha thanks! I don't like hauls full of products either :-)

[@Tisiphone2]

Someone needed to say it, thank goodness. Even in the video you can see the poor quality, especially problematic when it's clothing for plus sizes. Yes, it's cheap but it's cheap junk you keep paying for over and over when money could be better spent on key, quality...and ethically produced items.

[@ZosiaSamosiaOo]

How come do you do the laundry less often? I find it that the less I own, the more I use it over and over again and have to wash it all the time instead of doing one collective laundry every other week. :(

[@Ingrid0410]

You can even find poor souls doing luxury hauls, it's never enough for them! Having a plethora of stuff even designer stuff, given them for free will not make them happy, why? because it's never enough to fill the hole in everyone's soul, that only God can fill. It's not till you give away that you're happy! Give away your love, talent, life.

[@Ingrid0410]

There are many good retailers Tisiphone2 for plus sizes.

[@afrodititsangarou7858]

I love that you make a comment against fast fashion! it is so important for us and the rest of the world to realize the power our personal everyday choices hold 🙃

[@penneyburgess5431]

I bought two blouses, exactly alike except one was plain and the other had roses in the design of the fabric. The same store, the same price and wore them in the same week, washed and dried them together. The one with the roses shrunk. Now I know why.

[@justineleconte]

+Penney Burgess sorry that happened to you...

[@dorianoscarwilde]

I like the fact of social consciousness, who makes the clothing, who are the ones who suffer from the "drop cost at any means business"

[@virylixyusinthehouse3694]

Now I know why my clothes , my husband's and my daughters clothes are constantly shrinking time to become more smart at shopping 😊

[@MiepMiepRoadRunner]

Very same thing over here. 😂

[@expressivepets1]

I had no idea that was a thing. Really great advice.

[@lynneregan5776]

I discovered your channel accidentally a couple of weeks ago - now I'm addicted. You absolutely are light years ahead of all the junky 'style advice' out there on KZbin. You really know what you are talking about. And are so clear and lacking of effect and pretension! Love it.

[@sophbraith]

"Full closets and nothing to wear" resonates so well with me! I have far too many items of clothing that only work in really specific settings or times, and not enough good basics.

[@lenaayres4118]

Hello to all! I have one tip from my late mother, who taught me many useful clothing shortcuts. The tip I'd like to share is to avoid ironing, she would buy a can of ironing spray starch, spray the entire garment until damp, smooth the wrinkles by hand and let it dry on a hanger. It works! I don't like to iron either and if there's no steamer, this is what I do. I hope this helps someone. And thank you Justine, for the always informative and wonderful videos :-)

[@user-gc2ho2zo8d]

I never iron my clothes. I invested in a tumble dryer. I get the clothes out of the dryer before they are completely dry and then hang them from hangers or off the line with pegs. Thank you for your mother's tip. I'm no fan of ironing either :D

[@e.d.3729]

i'm not generally a fashion-oriented person, but a friend told me once, "you can wear cheap clothes, but never wear cheap shoes or cheap bags and you'll still look well-put-together." it turned out to be good advice! ("cheap" does not necessarily mean fast fashion -- could mean thrift store, ebay, etc.). your capsule video was the second great piece of advice i've gotten about clothes. thanks!

[@KristineMaitland]

BRILLIANT, Justine! Finally, a fashion commentator who understands style and elegance. More to the point, a elegant style commentator who does not make me say, " but what about plus sized women like me?" Your pointers never make me feel like like I must shop at the back of the store. Much love from Toronto, my dear!

[@justineleconte]

+Kristine Maitland thank you kindly 🤗

[@th6218]

I have become completely addicted to your channel. You are one of the few fashion youtubers that care for human rights and look at clothing with such rich and objective detail

[@justineleconte]

thank you!

[@shorea27]

Personally I avoid purchasing plain tops, not because I don't like it, but because of our weather. It is extremely hot and humid in the tropics and sweat marks show up more easily in plain blouses rather than printed tops. If I were going to an air-conditioned venue like perhaps the mall or a conference at a hotel, then sure, but that's not very often.

[@AmaraJordanMusic]

I've always wondered, when I've seen a print next to a solid with the same price, how exactly they made that work financially, so I'm so glad Justine mentioned that! And I love how she brought up the point that the person physically making the fast fashion pieces will not be what we consider to be properly paid, without bashing anyone over the head about it. She's always just so tactful! She brought it up for people who may not have been thinking about it, but without condemning. Another great video! There's always food for thought for a hungry mind! 😁

[@almatoledo1608]

Merci, Justine. Excellent¡!

[@justineleconte]

+AmaraJordan thank you 😄😊

[@woofiedog7452]

In my life I've only ever met two women who had fantastic style. One was a grade higher at the same school as I attended. She had a lot of clothes but looked fantastic in everything she put on. She had long dark, straight, hair tinted with red and wore goth type make-up long before the Goth look took hold. I could barely stop staring at her. She was breathtaking. Unfortunately, she starved herself with Anorexia and died, I learned later on in life when I met with her sister a decade or so ago. Another I met in my twenties - a flatmate of a friend of mine. Her name was Nancy, sometimes she called herself Karen. She was not all that classically beautiful or slim but she had a lot of personality and what she wore just looked fantastic, especially her hats. Both women - one I knew as a teenager, another in her twenties - remain very clear in my memory to this day and I'm now 58 years old. A lot of women who try to look stylish just look like they try too hard. There is no way to define style verbally - to try and work it out and emulate it: you either have it or you don't. It's really a talent with wearing clothes and creating a look. Possibly an art-form. Trying to describe it or why it works on one person and not another is near impossible.

[@kindcounselor]

Justine thank you so much for guiding us back to simple elegance. Your videos are lovingly done with concern for your sisters and you confirm in each one of the videos that we are worth buying quality clothing. You are much appreciated.

[@lovefish74]

I'm not into fashion at all, but I find your videos really interesting and with really good advice and information.

[@justineleconte]

Thanks!

[@irmelaroma]

"Money cannot buy taste or style" - great that you say that, it is so true. Except underwear (and sometimes shoes and basics), I almost always buy clothes in charity shops, which there are millions of in the UK, so lucky that I live here. Whenever I'm in Berlin or back home in Dresden I try to go to Second Hand Humana, especially the Berlin stores are superb. :)

[@mairaafat9575]

Thank you Justine! I never realized I was stuck in the cycle of fast fashion and wasting money on pieces that run out of fashion fast. Now I pay a lot more attention to quality and long-term use. Thank you again ❤

[@shirleyhook5436]

Very good tips. I had that closet full of nothing to wear clothing. I have gone through and cleared out one full closet. I donated clothing to a Christian women center here in my town. thank you for all the great tips you give. You have shown me so much on how to buy and my style for my apple shape body. Thank you it is always enjoyable to watch and learn here with you. Please keep doing these videos I love seeing your love and knowledge for fashion.

[@justineleconte]

+Shirley Hook thanks & congratulations on a thorough clean-out! You no doubt made many women happy and you have free space for new ideas 😊

[@michelegazy5633]

You are refreshingly honest and I value what you teach and what you offer. I hope you continue to work with the integrity so obvious in your videos. Thank you.

[@laurenrichardson7870]

Love this! So far i've gotten rid of 75% of my wardrobe because it doesn't fit, doesn't go with my skin tone and is poor quality! And I'm so much happier with the result! Thank you sooo much for your videos. I'm now completely starting my wardrobe from scratch and following your rules. I finally feel like i'm making investments in what I'll actually wear, looks good on me and will last for years.

[@justineleconte]

+Lauren Richardson wow, 75% gone?! Very impressive! 🎉👏👍 Well done!

[@deborahpatriarca903]

I love ur videos, no uneccessary intros that are so self-serving sometimes. Just straight to what should be.

[@estherquin4196]

*Oh Justine...I come from Kenya, which is a developing country and what that means for us fashion-wise, is that we are a ready market for fast fashion a.k.a the most 'affordable and chic' stores follow a certain pattern, i.e "we have what Kim K. had on last week and you can get it for much cheaper and we don't care if someone died making it." On the other hand, we have the options of (1) promoting locally made clothes, which are bomb!! and we have local tailors who are maaaad talented, but a lot of people have the notion that if its not expensive, its a fraud or, (2) buying cheap but quality second-hand imported clothes. But many people do not want that because they feel like they have a status quo to uphold. I appreciate you for promoting the idea that you can simply be true to yourself. You don't have to rob a bank to feel and look good. P.S- I love your consistency. P.S- Despite what you might get from my post, Kenya and Africa as a whole could really inspire you as a designer.

[@justineleconte]

+Esther Quin I would LOVE to visit Kenya one day. It is a whole new fashion world for me & I have it on my life bucket list 😄. PS: a pity that Kim K. has so much influence where you are as well...

[@nickyschmidt2814]

I love the comment at the end "Now we have full closets and nothing to wear". I fully agree. I'm no longer a clothes buyer, but/and I wear pretty much the same things all the time because they suit me, they're comfortable and I like them. Wish I'd spent more time in the past really thinking about things before buying. Thanks

[@PearlBurrows]

Thank you for this. I'm in the process of losing weight (30lbs so far) and saving money for a new wardrobe this fall. I will be starting from scratch.

[@julijakeit]

good luck! A motivation and inspiration to look forward to.

[@BonJourBonJour123]

Congrats. I'm in the same situation. I find I can wear some of my old clothes in a drapey way that looks great as Justine described. I am going with a few bits of fast fashion to get me through the weight loss. (Sorry Justine.)

[@lyla0775]

Pearl Burrows wow 30lbs! that's seriously impressive. man now i'm motivated.

[@elsagrace3893]

Choose slowly and carefully.

[@kathyparrow1390]

good for you

[@christinemarsden2157]

I love you, Justine :-) You've just said, 'hang your clothes after washing' so their weight helps drying with less ironing...or no ironing! Oh, a girl after my own heart! I've done that for years, and hardly ever iron....anything, People think I'm odd, or lazy. but there are so many fabrics out there nowadays that really don't need ironing - or even are best not ironed. When I think of my Sundays in the past, tied to the ironing board...... I feel vindicated.

[@raivainbrown995]

I do the wrinkle test of the fabric at the store. Then I weigh in on how much I like the item versus the time that I have to invest in using it. I put it back most of the time as I don't even know where my iron is! I always hang all my clothes after the dryer and that keeps the wrinkles off. I specifically look for fabrics that don't wrinkle or require more than what I already do to care for them. Not lazy, I just want to spend my time doing something more enjoyable than ironing! Usually this also means that colors don't bleed since the materials are better quality.

[@siramea]

My sister's motto is 'never pay full price for anything', but I also agree with everything in this video. I buy a lot of clothes in Marks and Spencer, especially basics and work clothes because they make clothes in my size, they are good quality for the price and they regularly have 20% off codes and sales every now than then. I have clothes from this shop that are over ten years old and still good, while clothes from Primark/Penneys I know they are not going to last. I would also say be cautious of sales, sometimes we tell ourselves it's good value because it's on sale but it never gets worn and that money would have been better spent on a quality piece.

[@meacelestin]

I totally undestand being fateful to a brand. When I was studying in Canada, I always shopped at one chain store because they carried Petite garments. I signed up for their mailers (this is pre-internet) and would mark all the clothes that I liked from the new seasons. Then, when I got the next season's catalog, I knew it was time to shop the sale. As I live in a tropical country, right before I came home for good, I visited several shops all over town and bought every summer item I had liked...on sale!

[@alyshamckinney3680]

I'm a stylist and this video said everything I've been thinking but 1,000 times better than whatever I could say! Thank you! This has been my favorite video from you by far!

[@justineleconte]

+Alysha McKinney thank you! 🤗

[@meenakshi6344]

Hi, that is such a sweet comment

[@Anatheempress]

You literally came just in time!! School shopping is right around the corner 🙄

[@justineleconte]

owww... I hadn't thought of that...! Perfect, then!

[@elizabethhannah6836]

Christiana Gaspard, when my children were small, I had to economize somewhere, they grow so quickly. I made sure to buy quality denim, so it would last longer. Money spent on quality outerwear was well spent, especially buying things that were meant to go together. Three in one jackets that could be split up and worn in different combinations, snowpants that matched, and sometimes even boots that matched. (Lands End). Now I would sell the whole set to another parent on ebay, but 15 years ago I gathered it all together to pass down to a friend's child, or donate to a women's shelter since they often have children with them, and have left their homes with nothing but their handbags. My apologies for the length, I seem incapable of saying what I want in 1 or 2 sentences, lol!

[@suzbone]

Your comment isn't too long at all, and you're awesome :-)

[@mgtogno]

after i watched ur video about fast fashion I went to research about it, and i watched a documentary called, The Turth Cost, and i was really moved. I was already for over 1 year little by little getting rid of my shopping addiction and focusing on a more minimalist life style, bying less but buying better, now I am tottally against fast fashion, when i go near a f21 i dont even feel like i want anything, really! I hate what they do to those people!! And Im sending this msg to everyone I know, even convinced a few friends to turn away from fast fashion. So thank u a lot Justine, now i was watching ur video and realised u were the one that sent me on tht path!! HUGS from Brazil XOXO

[@priyal2828]

"We have full closets, but nothing to wear". Amazing statement. Its very true. We need to break out of it soon! And your channel is awesome. Such genuine tips! :)

[@BananaCakeGirl2023]

I wish I found your channel much earlier than I did. It has provided me more practical tips on considerations and how to be stylish than many many channels on KZbin combined. I also loved your finding your style channel. Thank you Justine.

[@dr.kathleenruddy1734]

The hidden luxury in this sage advice to shop less often and more wisely has to do with debt: You're much less likely to strain your budget with debt if you are buying better, simpler closes and accessories less often. And if you have any streaks of revolution running in your veins, think what a shock it would be tot he bankers of the world if women started spending less money, but more wisely, on their wardrobes. What a timely insurrection that would be.

[@dr.kathleenruddy1734]

Sorry for the typos! Doc

[@justineleconte]

indeed, indeed! :-)

[@julijakeit]

most fast fashion is directed at the teenage girls to feed off of their insecurities, be fashionable, be trendy or else you'll be a loser! mothers used to tell their daughters the secrets of style not fashion. all fashion icons did something unusual that suited them perfectly even if it was a novice at a certain point of time. i appreciate the variety of choice but what about the choice of the fashion industry workers who do not make a normal living, their environment is poisoned and kids don't get to go school because they're modern day slaves?

[@lynnechemeli4124]

.

[@lethiapage4767]

The other thing too is you enjoy your clothes more if you buy them slowly, after careful consideration of what you need and and want. Impulse buys are often purchase errors. They just don't measure up the way we thought. Then its clutter or an errand to return or donate it. And if you go into debt for clothing, including paying with a credit card, at least for me....I have done this and its a nagging feeling every time you wear it. Better to buy what you can afford to own free and clear. Then you can enjoy wearing it.

[@agneslaufer8191]

Yeah, capsule wardrobe. I bought mine at thrift store, with high quality cashmere, cotton and linen. Love basics. It took me almost 2 years. Now I shop little, take care of my pieces. "That $400 cashmere sweater from Switzerland". I also take care of my clothing. Thank you for teaching us, you are wonderful. :)

[@notblondeswede]

I live just like this with my clothes when I was backpacking in Canada. I had high quality core pieces which I could combine and that could take the beating from constantly laying rolled together. Now, on a budget I realized I had bought a lot of cheap garments that didn't last and I felt tricked (essentially my body changed so I had to buy a new wardrobe). You made me rethink Justine, and taught me about visually spotting quality, thank you. :)

[@isabelab6851]

My aunt was a haute couture seamstress and she taught me these principles. I have always bought clothes following these guidelines. I splurged for natural fabrics (harder to find these days) and well made clothes in my color stories. I had black for winter, taupe for summer. Occasionally I will buy a fast fashion item on trend...but as I get older, I do not do this much. I may do it to add color...but use it a season and then I am done. Thank you

[@durch_meine_Augen]

I've watched this video a few times over the past several years. I'm working on re-framing how I relate to clothing, in that here in America (I'm sure other places as well, but I only have experience here) we are definitely psychologically manipulated by brands. Most of us believe (or seem to from our buying choices) that having more is better. We can "feel rich" if we have a closet full of clothing. All this has equated to for me is a closet full of clothes...only a fraction of which ever see the light of day. I'm appreciative of these videos as well, because I love seeing designers talk about the ethical dilemmas in the fashion industry. It's motivating me to strategically make over my closet and personal style, and ask more questions about where the clothes I buy come from.

[@anastaciabo8287]

I totally agree with the tip regarding spending more on basics, I used to spend more for special occasion clothing and when it came to my everyday wardrobe I had difficulty in finding something presentable to wear. As you say, it's actually the opposite that works for your wardrobe and I've experienced it first hand. Great video Justine, as always!

[@Nadyamantra]

I would love love love to listen to you speaking some french in your videos too! As a Canadian I learned to speak french late in life for my work and find it hard to practice comprehension if the subject matter isn't interesting to me, you are very interesting and speak so well , plus as the other commenter stated, your voice is calmer than my entire life !🤣🤣 🤣 Best comment ever!

[@FreddyGiggles]

I just came across your channel and I've been binge watching. So many ideas that i had not thought of; higher quality staple pieces, capsule wardrob....

[@VickieEB]

WOW....this gold has been here for 6 years and I am only just seeing it. Thanks, Justine ❤

[@yourfunsister]

This was an EXCELLENT and very helpful video. Also, I wanted to add, that if you travel frequently as I do; it makes packing and deciding what to bring a breeze.

[@absloutelyRasha]

Justine! you opened my eyes to the importance of having valuable items not fast cheap stuff. I agree with you, few items that match is better than too many of stuff.

[@carolinanorambuena7369]

My life is happier and more elegant because of you. Thank you so much, I learn a lot with your videos! Regards from Chile! :D

[@justineleconte]

+Carolina Norambuena hahaha thank you so much #Chilito

[@thegirlwhocould7922]

Thank you. This was such a great video. 16 years ago I purchased a gray cashmere sweater. I spent more money on it than I'd ever spent on a sweater before and felt really guilty. But it looked so good on me and I felt good wearing it. It is so soft and people would comment on that when they hugged me. I still have, wear & love this sweater. Money well spent

[@applefromthetree]

You are absolutely terrific at what you do-a voice KZbin needs. Merci chère Justine !

[@justineleconte]

ohhh merciiii! :-)

[@anaalves3658]

You are so right about people having less clothing, that was better made and properly looked after. Just look at the size of old free standing wardrobes, much , much smaller than any modern wardrobe, and people generally looked more stylish and well dressed than they do today. You can still get decent clothes at a cheap price, I have a classic cut black blazer that I bought from Mango 9 years ago. It took me a long time to find a blazer that was flattering on me, was simple and classical and fit my budget. I look after it and it still looks amazing ☺️👌. I have also bought more expensive brands in second hand or consignment stores, it's an excellent alternative, it just takes time and patience.

[@braynroquero2918]

Your tips and tricks are timeless and relatable. I love watching your videos

[@susanravizzotti2287]

I love the tip regarding texture but your whole video makes complete sense. Thank you also for reminding us that fast fashion has a cost, to the environment if it lands up in landfill and to the factory worker who was exploited

[@veronicas421]

Thank you, Justine! I have been living by several of these style ideas for several years. I'm not really a fan of a lot of the trendy clothes, so you helped me see that I've made smart choices and not just frugal ones. I prefer well-made pieces and not the "junky" pieces that last for one or two washes and then look misshapen. So, thank you for confirming my style choices. I love your videos. Thank you for sharing.

[@juliea.]

Very true: simple, clean lines, fewer basic well-made VS. many not-so-well-made pieces.

[@annaabroad5762]

“Money cannot buy taste or style.” - I love this!! Thank you for spending time teaching and inspiring me.

[@forester1887]

Over the course of 70 years I have worn many fragrances. I have always loved it. Several trips to France influenced me, including Grasse. I still have Fragonard bath salts stored away carefully! My three favorites over the decades have been Jil Sander (the first), Bulgari "Yellow" the original (rarely found now), and Chanel Cristalle. I bought lots of Cristalle products in Paris at the Chanel store because I could not find it in the US at that time. I rarely smell fragrance on women these days. My sense of smell is fine, but I think fewer women are wearing it, at least among my age group. Your video inspired me to get Cristalle Au Vert out of its box in my wardrobe drawer and apply it. I still love it. Thanks for the information and the memories!

[@vimaying8123]

“we have full closet and nothing to wear.” This got me.

[@asrr62]

so true not even funny. disposable clothing. thats going nowhere soon.

[@katarinalkuhn9717]

I find your calm and deep tone of voice an absolute pleasure to listen to. The content of your videos is as impeccable as your clothes, as well.

[@VEROTIKAA]

i always go for tacky on purpose ...but i often find myself wishing I had a classy outfit for when I go to church or stuff like that. me thank you very much this really helped

[@margottomasik2108]

Just discovered your channel and I feel like creating revolution in my closet. I want to get rid off 90% of my clothes and buy only good basic pieces that make me 100% happy, stylish and comfortable. I feel uncomfortable because I need to start. What is the best first step? Should I take everything out of my closet and start from scratch? I am nervous, but I must do it.

[@shahanasaghir8343]

Hi, Justine, I love the way you say "hi its Justine" with such a loving & refreshing smile. i've seen many of your videos and found it so informative. Im very addicted to your videos😊

[@karenkranz2682]

Understanding the economics of the fashion industry is a great tool for managing our budgets. Thank you.

[@maggra4347]

I really LOVE all your lifestyle tips

[@cajunthibs]

I love how the background color makes your eye color stand out 😊

[@ascensio11]

High prices and luxury brands don't always equate to high quality though. I had a friend who paid $100+ for a simple Alexander Wang T-shirt but I'm not sure just how much better it is compared to my $15 Gap one. Can you recommend some brands that have very high quality basics that will last? The problem with capsule wardrobes is that my basics get so worn down from frequent use that I just don't know if spending a lot of money on them is worth it....?

[@birdAdele]

acer.b oodji. Their basic tank tops are very good quality, i bought them in several colours and don't regret it at all. But i'm not sure if this brand is available off-line where you live

[@ascensio11]

I also have tops from gap and jcrew from 10 years ago that have still held up as well!! People always think i'm crazy to keep them for so long but they're still very usable. The quality of those brands now cannot even begin to compare to how they were "back in the day."

[@MC-xw1pm]

I would suggest reducing the number of washes between wears to increase the lifespan of your clothes. You can hang them in sunlight to sit them out and disinfect them between washes. Also have your clothes mended by a tailor.

[@sebastianlugo5781]

My advice is to look at the piece itself, not the price tag. Which way is the fabric cut, how tight are the stitches, can you see the hem? Justine has several videos on identifying high quality clothes. As for the Gap brand itself, I wouldn't spend a cent on their products. They're made in sweatshops and some of their products were discovered in the wreckage of the Bangladeshi fire from a few years ago- they still haven't changed since then.

[@jenabobenabananafanafofena]

This is the best advice. I've got Forever 21 and Target items I bought secondhand that have lasted me 5+ years. Meanwhile I bought a Free People dress on clearance and the skirt ripped the second time I wore it. The fabric was thin and the seam allowances were too narrow (trying to save on fabric costs?). The surging basically perforated it so badly that it just unraveled. I fixed it but I would have been furious if I had paid the original price of $130. It's my own fault for not checking the seams first. Reminds me of an olive green jacket I paid $80 for and one of the snap closures just ripped through the thin fabric. Hmph.

[@suzukiselina]

I am so glad to hear you avoid ironing! Sometimes I hang linen pieces in the bathroom while I shower to steam them a bit.

[@Mihaila-7892]

Justine you are so realistic, wise and enjoyable! Lucky the people that are your friends. And thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! Watching your videos somehow releases my day stress. Much love from Albania :*

[@SeanKBeauty]

Wow this has me thinking 🤔 I’m trying to build a beautiful classic wardrobe capsule and this is helping me so much

[@sarahsardar4930]

You entirely changed my idea about fast fashion , your tips are so usefull , thanks for sharing them .

[@justineleconte]

+Sarah N thank you for telling me!!

[@askandi8119]

Watching your video’s reduces anxiety for we stressed women who have to look great every day and are still working well into our sixties. Thanks!

[@jesselpires351]

dear Justine, every video I watch from ur series inspires me deeply. I love ur honest opinions and genuine advice. most of ur ideas match mine. it's hard to find people like you. keep up with ur good work. God bless you.

[@justineleconte]

+Jessel Pires thanks! 🌺

[@lee-annebarrett366]

Your last comment hit home. My mother had a few beautiful pieces in her wardrobe, classic and beautifully made, some handmade. Going to down size my wardrobe right now.

[@Radiologytutor]

After beginning to earn for myself and getting married, i have begun to realize the value of money. As opposed to what the media has been blaring about buying this jewelry or that top, I've been recycling the clothes i already have. By doing so, i have come up as a more creative person and i have somehow figured out my style( coz i have limited options to work with). My wardrobe feels more comfortable, and i feel like i own clothes as opposed to clothes owning me. I loved your minimalism video and love how you recycle clothes in every other video, e.g.this black tee. We gotta save for ourselves, for the environment, for our future generations and in a higher level, it's always a good idea to take less and give more.

[@justineleconte]

+Keshika Koirala congratulations on finding a style you feel good in 👏

[@SadieKay1]

Also, as I did as a student (before falling into the fast fashion trap as soon as I got work and am only now coming out of it!), go into charity shops. You'd be surprised by the quality of what you can find! One persons trash is another's treasure! You just need patience!

[@carolina160394]

Very helpful again thank you Justine... I would love if you ever make a video about how to find the perfect red lipstick for your skin tone.

[@justineleconte]

oh... for that one I might need professional help from a qualified make-up artist. You know what, I'll add this topic to the wishlist :-)

[@salvaaltea8103]

Lisa Eldridge has a video about guide to red lipsticks "Ultimate Guide to Red Lips". You might wanna check out. 😀

[@angelamaurer1346]

You should choose based on your skin undertone. If you are warm, choose a warm red. If you are cool, go for the cool red. For example, for warm undertone, Dangerous or Lady Danger from MAC (yellow or orange as a base of it). For cool, Diva or Dance with me (more blue undertone in it). If you want your teeth to look whiter, go for the cool and dark red, because blue, purple cancels the yellow from the teeth.

[@ananyabiswas5823]

These ideas are something I've never heard from anyone.. thank you for the tips.. I've to start following these tips. ❤️

[@hailithinksyourcute]

You are making me really want to just create a capsule wardrobe now! These are some amazing tips.

[@Broadherst]

Thank you for talking about the effect of fast fashion on the people sewing it and not making a living wage. It's really turned my thinking around about how to budget for clothing. I now realize if I want my budget to reflect my values and since I want my purchasing to support the people making it, I need to double what I'm spending now and get fewer pieces that last longer and are made ethically. That feels like a good choice to make now. Thank you. :)