It happens every year: The days get longer, the leaves get greener and all of a sudden, that cozy wine-colored sweater that was a staple during the winter months gets pushed further back in your closet. Summer is here, and your wardrobe is aching for a spunky new look.
One of the major challenges the fashion-forward face, however, is cost. In 2010, the average consumer in the United States spent $1,700 on apparel and services per year. With the median household income at $50,054 and declining as of 2011, consumers are also becoming increasingly savvy with their spending. And when you're trying to stay stylish for less, rising temperatures don't help: With summer figures in the United States reaching the highest they've been since record keeping began in 1895, looking fresh during the year's hottest months can be a tall (and sweaty) order.
However, if there's one thing fashion does well, it's rising to a challenge. Changing seasons don't mean you need to completely overhaul your wardrobe; in fact, quite the opposite. From the anatomy of a versatile wardrobe to bargain hunting; from strategic shopping to making trends work, read on for our top five tips on updating your closet for summer.
