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

[@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.

[@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.

[@MermaidMoffie]

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

[@justineleconte]

it is a hard truth :-)

[@rhonda5288]

A great quote, copy and paste!!!!

[@DrThanushaSambamurthy]

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

[@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.

[@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]

.

[@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!

[@nadinerick1182]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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?

[@TRex-os1uy]

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.

[@TRex-os1uy]

Thanks Justine!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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).

[@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 :-)

[@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 :-)

[@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??

[@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.

[@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 🙃

[@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.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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...

[@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.

[@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

[@lovefish74]

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

[@justineleconte]

Thanks!

[@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!

[@ecetezsezen3150]

My mom's words: "I am not rich enough to buy cheap products"

[@karenkranz2682]

that's awesome!

[@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 😄😊

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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 ❤

[@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.

[@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

[@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. :)

[@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

[@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 👏

[@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.

[@crissolmontiel]

Agree 100% with your opening statement, money can't buy taste.

[@joannekerr8839]

Justine - you won me over completely when you said, "I prefer no ironing" ! Thank you !

[@mofetabionica]

I like baggy and loose clothes too, but not everybody suit that. Most people need to use a more tailored piece in its true size to look put together, or lean, some people are tubby and short and loose clothes don't help at all. I'm thinking of my mom per example. I'm on the other hand, lean and tall, so I wear a lot of baggy items, but it's not for everyone.

[@nadinerick1182]

Ikr? I'm quite overweight, but got a nice, feminine figure as well. Think hips, bust, butt, thighs and rather narrow shoulders. Classic A-figure. Whenever a guy asks me for a full body pic in the internet, I send him one from the Venus of Willendorf. ;P If I had rather slim legs, but a big belly, I'd wear loose dresses and longshirts, but tight leggings to emphasize my legs, coupled with pretty halfboots or so. But in my case, loose garments would only make it worse. Once, a salesperson actually wanted to sell my some kind of poncho that would "hide the problem zones". I was like: "Nah. I got a nice body, there's just too much of it." I love shirts that are tight around the bust and shoulders with a high but wide neckline, narrow but not too tight around the waist (for when I sit down) and covering the butt halfway. Feminine and classy. Not easy to find.

[@slbarbieri1725]

@@nadinerick1182 yes. It really is a belly and back problem. If your waist/belly and back look good with no rolls, you can wear clothes more form fitting. If those are your problem spots, clothes that skim over are much more flattering.

[@_happyland_7195]

Finally someone bringing this up. I don't mean to be rude but her suggestion is terrible! Buy your size, if you have to constantly fix what you are wearing than it simply means it's not your size.

[@triolet9226]

You're right. I have rather large breasts, so in order for the garment to be 'loose-fitting' I need to go up some sizes.. And then I just end up looking like a potato sack. :D

[@aimeelee76]

I had to scroll down too far to find this, IMO. I agree with most of Justine's advice, but not this. Many body types can't wear drapey/loose styles, because they get swallowed by the fabric. I'm 5'3" and pear-shaped leaning towards hourglass, and loose clothes do me no justice. I have to wear fitted clothing or else I look terrible.

[@kateoc8]

Having a post lockdown (almost) wardrobe crisis....selling lots of my clothes and shoes simply because i know i will never wear them anymore...although i have enjoyed looking at them on their hangers! I recently lost 2 stone following the death of my beloved mother, so it's time for a reset... So i have just discovered this channel, as Justine offers that advice i remember my mum saying years ago, but I, like others, got suckered by the advertising and pretty pictures online of various companies. Now, when i have sold all that stuff, i intend on investing in the best quality i can afford. I just need to watch and listen more so i know where to look. Any advice gratefully received. Thank you. P.s. everyone commenting here seems so lovely, supportive and constructive! Not used to that on KZbin. Think I'll stay in this corner!

[@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

[@MarijaParente]

"Money cannot buy taste or style"....I so agree

[@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

[@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! :)

[@icesilverwind]

There are items I see in the store, that are so artistically pretty that I have this incredible urge to wear it. But it's not for every day use, or even once-a-year use. So I have found myself doing something very interesting. I snap a photo of myself in the fitting room. Then I walk out and don't buy the item. If I come back to the photo a lot, and think of many occasions to wear it and pair it and use it. Then I come back for the item. :D

[@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.

[@karenkranz2682]

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

[@applefromthetree]

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

[@justineleconte]

ohhh merciiii! :-)

[@TheDigitallyWealthyOfficial]

I really appreciate the comment about not just buying cheaper clothes because every time i click on a fashion video that says that, I immediately click off. I want to buy fashion from ethical companies and I want a sustainable wardrobe

[@TurtleSoupBeads]

I would rather buy higher quality thrift store clothes than fast fashion

[@BornRemaining]

That's because you know what's up. Thrift shopping has a lot of advantages, and all it costs is pocket change and some patience.

[@lenafranklin7262]

I love layering similar colours , dress , vest and scarf . So comfortable and classy

[@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

[@mariaalex3956]

I used to do that in my 20s and 30s, I would chose a luxurious fabric and I would design the model by myself- it was wonderful feeling, like I was creating something. And when i was wearing it, it was only me with that skirt or that dress... Now no matter what I buy and wear the feeling is never the same... I feel just like everybody else.

[@annaabroad5762]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@kdphotos4691]

I just wore a coat yesterday which I've had for about 25 years, and it is actually about 50 years old. I have a dress which is about 75 years old. They're both classic styles and never go out of style. I have seen my wardrobe cycle "in and out of style" 3 times in my lifetime. If I had a daughter, she'd be in heaven from wearing these clothes that are on trend right now in my closet.

[@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....

[@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

[@lindaliriel]

Another tip: when you can, make your own! I crochet a lot of my hats and scarves etc; they become unique pieces that can completely change an outfit :)

[@juliea.]

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

[@MariaCristina1234]

I love that you dont get any advertisement when clicking into any of your videos!!

[@RuleNr34]

Pro tip: Spray starch and linnen. It's been a revelation. Crisp linnen that you can wear more than once. What a concept!

[@justineleconte]

wow, fantastic!

[@pippysmama7639]

Hi Justine, thank you for delivering a very sound and mature message to the internet. We don’t need fast fashion to look good. We do need to carefully consider our purchases, care for our items and appreciate them!! My tip is to shop at thrift stores/op shops/charity stores where you can pick up quality garments at a very low price. You do have to check for wear and tear, but I have recently used these stores to increase my collection and it has been FANTASTIC! The purchases go towards a charity so there are winners all round.

[@braynroquero2918]

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

[@deborahpatriarca903]

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

[@libiabrenda3148]

Great video! Thank you for your advice

[@justineleconte]

definitely! Thanks for adding this point to the list!

[@FrancoPolo]

I couldn't agree more :) You can really find great pieces of clothing in second hand shops. You just need to have time for that.

[@jovita9323]

Libia Brenda I shop exclusively at second hand stores and have clear conscience because it's an ethical and eco-friendly way to shop. Also, the pieces are so cheap and unique!

[@gaiafox4286]

THIS! I agree with every word, I buy all I can in charity shops and my best and most complimented outfits are built with second hand clothing :)

[@libiabrenda3148]

YES! Second hand clothes are a very good option, even if you want to change your wardrobe two times a year ;) No, seriously, to have original pieces, sometimes vintage, sometimes just previously used is great. Is cheap, is ecological, is fun to shop, is definetly according to your style, or even if you want to experiment someting new. And you can always personalize the garments with a bit of a twist, and with new clothes is less common, no to say less cheap :)

[@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!

[@nancywijangco5368]

thank you Justine, im almost 60 years old. and i discovered that you dont have to break your bank account, to dress well. i buy in the market and combine everything. that is the KEY. you buy cheap things.and your money....deposit in the bank..... he he he

[@maggra4347]

I really LOVE all your lifestyle tips

[@JS-ds1vu]

You are the greatest. Who is better than you? NOBODY! I really enjoy and learn from your videos. Thank you, for your time and effort.

[@noemischaffer6861]

I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong, but I get bored of my clothes easily. I love them in the beginning and the they just somehow lose their magic. No matter how nice they are.

[@conniebeane6164]

You're expecting your clothes to do "magic" things FOR you. They can't; they're just fabric. Change what's inside YOU, and your attitude toward what you buy to put on your body will change.

[@kathykaura7219]

Different textures of the same color is so chic!

[@501archer]

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

[@501archer]

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.

[@cajunthibs]

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

[@milica93]

Also you can find excellent quality garments for a price lower than H&M ones at second hand shops, you just have to have patience.

[@ananyabiswas5823]

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

[@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! 🌺

[@marinaalex0510]

"One size bigger than the size I would actually need". Finally somebody who knows better says it. Thank you! I've always been doing it, and the sales person almost always has been trying to sell me a smaller size, while I feel exactly what you've said: "When the look is a bit loose and drapey, the lady - me :-) - looks more elegant

[@Jen7867]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge about the difference in the quality of garments with prints versus garments in solid colors. I really love prints, but I am definitely going to keep this in mind from now on!! Also, I just wanted to take the time to let you know how much fun you are to watch and that your videos have been so helpful. Thank you so much.

[@MelodyVioline]

I have a capsule wardrobe and I definitely regret the one item that is out of my color palette. Sure I can mix it with something but it's limited 🤷

[@TheBohemianStyle]

Hi, Fast fashion is helpful when my clothes get destroyed at work. Even working in an office, I always get snags that destroy the impeccable clothing due to cheap office furniture, file folders with sharp edges and fasteners to bound materials. I truly enjoyed your video and totally agree with you. Thank you so much for your video.

[@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!

[@srijanagurungshrestha4660]

The tips that actually make sense. Very thoughtful.

[@hailithinksyourcute]

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

[@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.

[@schneeroseful]

My wardrobe is build of mostly timeless pieces, but I do have one or two edgy pieces per season. Right now I loose weight quite steadily and have to build a new wardrobe every season. So I like to invest in "size neutral" pieces and I indeed do buy more fast fashion for basic pieces. It does not make me feel good, especially as a clothing technichian. But what I have learned during this time is to have less pieces in my wardrobe and about my style as I have the opportunity to try out some stuff. It was a pain giving some beloved high quality pieces away and I look forward to having pieces for a longer time again.

[@lilypaulawilkerso9316]

thank you for your videos- I was in Paris and had a British young man who stopped me and started asking how to get to the Metro in broken French and he was shocked when I answered him in English. He assumed based on my appearance that I was French-what a compliment ( I am American). To be mistaken as a stylish French woman is so flattering and I credit your video with helping me pull off a classic stylish look!!

[@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. :)

[@bawoman]

I just wait for sales...especially summer and winter...you can get incredibly good bargains for higher quality...spend as much as you can there then dont buy anything for the rest of the year.

[@g.g.matuga4986]

This is my favourite video amongst all of your fabulous videos. I am a designer and seamstress and I thoroughly enjoy your videos. Thank you.

[@limmykinh]

This is something I was about to write /request! Amazing! I will be moving from Philippines to America this month to study so this is really helpful. I've been trying my best to follow your suggestions about the ethical clothing companies and how to avoid fast fashion but this is like the icing on the cake. I'd have to rebuild my wardrobe again when I move into the States (since we have tropical climate here, so I'd have to start building up a capsule wardrobe for seasons). And being a student, I'd have to do it according to my tight budget. This is really helpful, so thank you again, Justine.

[@justineleconte]

I am glad this video comes in timely. And good luck with your move! :-)

[@MichiruEll]

Heidi Rodis Something that can also be useful is second hand/charity shops. If you need good basics, but you can't afford to buy them full price at the moment, you may find some high quality pieces there. Just be sure to check the clothes for defects (make sure zippers work and things like that). But careful, just because it's cheaper in the charity shop doesn't mean you should buy things that you would not wear normally. (if you don't like flower prints, don't buy a flower print shirt just because it's only $10)

[@limmykinh]

Aha, nice suggestion. Thank you very much.

[@sandram.5666]

Take into consideration where in the country you will be coming to since there are different climates throughout the big country. You will have to adjust for different climate in different states. For example: moving to California vs Michigan. And even within a state you'll have variance. Just a small tip!

[@limmykinh]

Ooh. Thanks. I'll be moving to Oklahoma. Any tips on how to dress for OKC?

[@sonja1]

Justine, you wonderful human, I don’t comment often, but after watching your videos for such a long time I had to finally comment...Your videos are so inspiring, informative and bang on. I’ve just finished a year of not buying anything (NoSpendYear on Instagram), besides essentials like food, paying bills, etc., and got rid of a lot of clothes in order to have a 30 piece capsule wardrobe ( I actually own less than 30 pieces now). I, like most women, used to stand in front of my packed wardrobe only to gasp “I have nothing to wear, I need more stuff in order to build outfits”. How wrong I was, a) I’ve learned that stuff doesn’t buy happiness and b) I didn’t need more stuff, I just needed more classic pieces, in classic colours and classic cuts that can be mixed and matched. I’ve also realised that Math helps when you’re trying to make the most out of your items. How so? Well, a good example is travel. When you pack a suitcase for a vacation you probably bring half your wardrobe, but what we fail to realise is that when you have for example: 5 tops and 3 bottoms, you already have 15 outfits, because 5 x 3 = 15. Or you bring 4 tops and 2 bottoms, you have 8 outfits. Now, imagine that most people own 15 tops minimum and 4 bottoms that’s a staggering 60 outfits..enough for 2 months. I must admit I find it quite hard to find quality pieces, even when you do spend more money or on designer stuff, as most pieces are still made in China, Philippines or Turkey. I do avoid the obvious places like Primark, H&M, Zara and try to support smaller brands or boutiques. It’s always important to stretch the material a bit , when buying an item, just to see how the stitches are holding the item together and I always check the labels to see what the composition of the item is like. Avoiding Polyester is sooooo incredibly hard, but possible. It takes time, but i think all of us good make better choices when it comes down to the quality of our garments and ultimately saving the environment. Fast fashion gets thrown out FAST and ends up in landfills. I’m drifting off here, but I’m just very passionate about this whole topic. Thanks again for creating such wonderful videos. I will continue to watch them and tell people about you :)