*This is a sponsored guest post.
Carrie Bradshaw is the iconic, fictional journalist from the hit HBO show and subsequent movie franchise, Sex and the City. She is known for many things, but chief among them are her uncensored wit and of course, her adventurous, bold, and cutting-edge sense of fashion. Every week Bradshaw became the envy of almost every middle-class woman across the country. She helped women from coast to coast find the courage to take a critical look at their closets and then she inspired them to define a personal style by reaching outside of their comfort zone to try something new – all in the name of fashion.
Bradshaw once famously said, “I like my money right where I can see it…hanging in my closet.” Clearly this is not good financial advice, but it brings up an interesting thought – do you need to choose between having either impeccable fashion or a healthy financial position? The answer is no; with some simple adjustments and a little self-discipline, you can dress like you have money in the bank because you will have money saved there.
Here are some simple tips to enhance your style while simultaneously saving you money:
- Splurge on the classics and save on trends. When it comes to shopping, you do not want to spend all your money on trendy pieces which will be out of fashion within the next several years. Instead, invest in the pieces that will age with grace and which will carry you through the years; a classic pinstripe suit, a versatile pair of leather boots, a little black dress, or a timepiece you can pass down to your loved ones, are all great ways to invest in your wardrobe.
- Evolve your look with accessories. Whether you are a man or woman, accessories can play a vital role in your look each day. Scarfs, shoes, jewelry, belts, ties, pocket squares, briefcases, purses, and glasses are just a few items which can elevate an otherwise mundane outfit and make it something truly magnificent. When you look good, you often feel great. Something as simple as a well-thought-out set of cufflinks, like these from Corporate Cufflinks, can put a new spin on an older outfit.
- Tailor your clothes to fit. Size runs vary significantly from store to store and from style to style. You can wear pants in a particular size at one store and an entirely different size at another. Unless you are a fit model or a perfect size per style and store, you will likely have some issues with the overall fit of garments. Take the time to have your clothes altered to fit your body, do not settle for an off-the-rack fit made to accommodate many different shapes and sizes.
- Shop within a predetermined budget. Evaluate your budget before each season and determine a reasonable amount to spend on your ever-changing wardrobe. Budgeting allows you to spend within reason and it will force you to prioritize your purchases. Just make sure the budget is manageable, and it fits within your overall budget objectives.
If you stick to this plan your wardrobe and your budget will start to gradually mature and they will both be able to weather trends in fashion as well as the financial market.
If you are as serious about building your wealth as you are about being on the cutting edge of fashion, then the best way to help produce maximum returns on your investments is to consult a wealth management professional like those at Benedetti, Gucer & Associates (BGA). BGA is a boutique wealth management firm located in Atlanta, Georgia. Jaime Benedetti and Bob Gucer are at the helm of the company and have paved their way in a highly scrutinized industry by putting their clients’ interests first. Their honesty, integrity, and understanding of the markets has helped them grow their firm as they strive deliver world-class customer service and consistent results. They use a unique investment approach to maximize their client’s portfolios, always taking into consideration each client’s risk tolerance, timeline, and short- and long-term objectives.
Next time you step out in a new outfit, remember that looking wealthy should not compromise your ability to build true wealth. With a proper plan and some self-discipline, there is no reason you can’t do both. Consult the wealth management professionals of Benedetti, Gucer & Associates to help you reach your financial goals. Nothing looks as good the peace of mind you get by having a healthy retirement account and knowing you are financially stable.
DISCLOSURES
The views expressed represent the opinions of Benedetti, Gucer & Associates and are subject to change. These views are not intended as a forecast, a guarantee of future results, investment recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any securities. The information provided is of a general nature and should not be construed as investment advice or to provide any investment, tax, financial or legal advice or service to any person.
Additional information, including management fees and expenses, is provided on Benedetti, Gucer & Associates’ Form ADV Part 2, which is available upon request.
The use of the term “RIA” does not imply a certain level of skill or training.
The Five Star program is the largest and most widely published wealth manager award program in North America. The research process for the Five Star Wealth Manager firms and peers nominate award candidates. Award candidates are evaluated against 10 objective criteria to determine the Five Star Wealth Managers in more than 40 major markets. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the adviser by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation.
