Frugal Fashion: Look Chic All Year Long with Post Season Holiday Wear

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Ever taken an objective look at the holiday wear items that hit the market starting in October?The truth is many of them are a decent deal even before the clearance sales start. In fact, I once scored a fantastic flouncy crepe tank sheath for ten bucks by combining a department store pseudo sale with an exceptional newspaper coupon to the same store. Right now though, the clearance deals still going on at many of the major first run stores just may be too good to pass up. What if you miss out? Well they should be hitting the Marshall's, Ross and TJ Max circuit shortly thereafter. Want a peek at my ten favorite “use them all year long” items? Read on.

I have to admit, chances are that black velvet pantsuit is only going to get you through the holiday season itself. You might get several seasons out of it, but it will in fact be a seasonal outfit. There are a fair number of other fashion staples however, that can be outrageously expensive to pick up during other times of the year. A few of my faves?

Multitudes of little black dresses.

This time of year means cool shopping opportunities for women of all sizes because the industry as a whole realizes that most people dress up for at least one holiday event. And while I find the good old LBD to be more than flexible as a wardrobe item, I've rarely found one that suits every single occasion. I generally have two-three at any given time.

Evening gowns in general.

Let's face it, spring only brings out the best in teeny-bopper prom styles and pastel bridesmaid dresses. Shop the sales at this time of year though, and you've actually got a shot at picking up some items you can wear to semi-formal dinner events throughout the year. I've even seen some great things in beaded ivory crepe that would make a stunning statement for a second or later in life wedding.

Glitzy pantsuits and skirt – jacket combos.

Everything I just stated above applies here. Darker colored women's suits with tastefully accented lapels look great at evening events and hot dates throughout the year. Just toss on some pearls and whip your mane into a French twist. You'll have it covered.

Strappy sandals and other girly footwear.

Black works for me, but I have found cream, silver, gold and certain hard to find jewel tones for that special outfit before. No tacky plastic looking items here, ladies. I'm talking about seriously nice stuff. In fact, if you blow through froo-froo footwear easily, this is definitely an affordable time to snag a back up pair. (Guess who should be following Andrea's advice on heel saving strategies more than I do? I always mean to remember to swap out shoes, but rarely do. At least in the summer time, I can manage to kick off my sandals and drive barefoot.)  Another thing that's cool about shopping for dress shoes at this time of year is that I usually notice a wider selection of styles during the holiday retail season, as everyone has that specific outfit that needs a certain type of shoe. It's one of the few times a year when the clothing industry accommodates my fashion needs, so I roll with it.

The perfect clutch purse.

Gold, silver, red, multi-colored or black satin with sexy beaded trim and other details. You can spend six bucks now, or sixty dollars later. Your call.

Jewel toned and other shimmery dress blouses.

Want to look fantastic on that after work date without having to pack an entirely separate outfit? These things look great all year long, and you'll have just one extra item to take to the office that morning. Pick a color that accents your eyes, and you'll knock him dead on a major budget.

Winter accessories.

With the popularity of the hat, scarf and gloves combo gift, you can pick up something in a neutral tone that will be suitable for either a man or a woman. Bonus? A fresh set of toasty and stylish accessories will make that lasts forever classic coat you bought eight years ago look fresh as well as timeless.

Hair jewelry.

Those in major metropolitan areas have access to the mall resources throughout the year. Those who live in less developed areas can really use this season to snag faux versions of the following: pearl encrusted hair scrunchies, diamond and pearl hair sticks, glittery hair combs and pins, etc. These are great for special evenings and dress up events throughout the year.

Lounge wear.

Not wanting to spend your couch cuddling time in long-johns, but finding lace teddies a tad inappropriate for in-house toddlers and unexpected guests? Check out some of the shimmery or velvet two-piece lounge or pajama sets you can still find now. You can look great for your significant other and participate in family board game night at the same time.

Patterned hosiery and trouser socks.

I love having some nicer nylons that I don't have to break my neck putting on. Trouser socks with moderately dressy pants and some slip on boot-style mules work it for me if I have to pull off a professional look in a pinch or rush.

These are my favorite frugal fashion picks for this time of year. How about you?