Last week, a client messaged me, asking if I actually buy most of the products I recommend and if I buy for the indicated price on the open market. The answer is easy: I never ever do that. She asked me for my strategy to shop high quality products for less and I’m happy to share in my journal.

Local Shopping

I love strolling through the old town of Baden-Baden, where I live. There is a second hand store called Laufsteg. You can always find some outstanding pieces by classic luxury brands for a beneficial price. I never miss to have a look at the ‘by Lola Concept Store’ not far from the Main Street. It’s a cool young addition to Baden-Baden shops and the cover brands like Selected Femme or Moss Copenhagen. Also, the ladies who own the store, are nice and friendly, too. If you’re looking the perfect hat, make sure to stop by Olivier Maugé. It’s one of the oldest workshops in Europe and the quality of their products is outstanding. The best store for lingerie and swimwear is Schaible’s. They cover brands like Eres, which I’m a big fan of.

I also make sure to go to Paris and Strasbourg for ‘les soldes’ twice per year. My personal treat as I miss living in Paris all year long. Can’t wait to go back as soon as COVID-19 ends.

Online Shopping

I love net-a-porter’s bi-annual sale. If I’m really in need for something, I buy as soon as it’s on sale, if not, I wait until the last weeks of sale. The Outnet (which is part of the net-a-porter Group) has several sales on sale without the year, so I make sure I always check those. But my favorite sale is by the Hamburg Boutique Anita Hass. It’s smaller, less confusing with a selection of pieces which match 100% my personal taste.

Second Hand Shopping

Wherever I sell my clothes I buy there as well. Vinted is perfect for a real bargain. I buy Allude and Eric Bompard Cashmere sweaters, un- or very rarely used, straw bags or summer dresses. Yesterday Domani is really fashionable à point. It comes at a higher price but everything has been carefully inspected and selected in advance, for 1/4 to 1/2 of the original price. Perfect for bags, coats or dresses.

Some of my spring favourites available at ByLola Baden-Baden (also online shopping), vinted, Yesterday Domani and net-a-porter.

I am a big fan of establishing a capsule wardrobe. It makes dressing easy and efficient without compromising style.  It’s also the perfect way to establish your own individual uniform - during the week, week-end, work or evening. During these last weeks of quarantine, I started my research for the most suitable and easy to combine pieces for the upcoming season. Planning the future is always energizing and this year I look forward to spring more than ever. Maybe we won’t be completely free by then, but for sure, it will mark the beginning of better times.

I hope you feel inspired by my findings, 10 versatile pieces that fit any body type and shouldn’t be missing in any wardrobe.

1. The Bermuda Jean

2. The Cardigan

3. The Straw Bag

4. The Chain Necklace

5. The Zip Collar Sweater

6. Black Loafers

7. The Denim Shirt

8. The perfect white Tee

9. The Leather Bermuda

10. The Basecap