Costume Designer Jenny Gering's Crushes

DAME's resident stylist navigates the trick of the bargain

By Jenny Gering
Published: Dec 13, 2007

My approach to dressing clients is that of a costume designer. Who is this person? What makes her stand out? Every person is a character – what makes her different and unique?

One thing I’ve learned is the psychological puzzle and trap of people’s bargain hunting habits.

Most people find it easier to spend big bucks on a black tie dress or something special. A better approach is to buy one or two pieces a season that may cost more, but will make sense in the long run. One sentence: Buy Less, Spend More.

Most people have closets full of crap! It’s the no guilt, quick fix $50.00 t-shirt that gets worn once. Warning: This is a trap! It makes so much more sense to spend a little more on an expensive sweater, classic jacket or seasonless pair of boots.

Think about it. Add up all the little “these are so cheap” t-shirts that you’ve grabbed on the run and barely remember buying. Really. How many black tank tops does one Dame need? Total it. $100, $500, more? Now think about a piece you’ve had a crush on. Take an expensive jacket for example. It can be worn with everything from jeans to a dress, will give you a lot more mileage and bang for the buck, maybe even make you feel more confident. Clearly a must for more elegant endeavors, but the look, cut and quality of the jacket will finish a casual look, and make it chic. Think of it as two for the price of one if you must indulge your bargain shopper self. It’s a better choice and a way to elevate your look as a whole. The piece will more than earn its keep in the end. And your cluttered closets will thank you.

Jenny Gering is a costume designer and fashion consultant living in Manhattan. She divides her time between designing for feature films (look for The Return with Rachel McAdams and Tim Robbins in December) and lending her fashion expertise to "non celebrity" clients.

Browse All Features >