Fashion
How much average earners in Europe spend on clothes – and what you should do instead
A new study from women’s fashion brand Kaiia found that Europeans spend an average of 2.91% of their take-home pay on clothes. I’ll say it outright: I love this data. A while back, I criticized a major online fashion mag for suggesting a clothing budget of 5% of your pay. My recommendation was a more modest 2% to 2.5% — more in line with the average European’s budget.
But there’s more to this story, including some juicy takeaways for budget-minded U.S. shoppers. Let’s look at the highlights of the European clothing budget study and what it means for your apparel purchases.
What European shoppers spend on clothes
The Kaiia study analyzed incomes and spending habits in 20 countries. These findings stand out:
- Annual clothing spend by country ranged from 1.44% of take-home pay in Hungary to 4.02% in Estonia.
- Annual incomes in the 20 countries ranged from €20,600 in Estonia to €43,830 in Luxembourg. Converted to dollars, that’s roughly $24,548 at the low end and $52,078 at the high end.
- Luxembourg shoppers spent the most, €1,619.51 annually on average. They had higher-than-average incomes and dedicated a larger budget (3.69% on average) to clothes.
- Estonian shoppers spent more than 4% on clothes, even though their average annual take-home pay was a modest €20,600.
- Italy, a country known for its ties to fashion, did outspend the average European on clothes, but not in an extreme way. Italian shoppers took home €32,133 and spent 3.63% of it (€1,166.06) on clothes.
According to this study, overspending means dedicating more than 2.91% of your take-home pay to clothing purchases. That’s the easy definition based on the data, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all rule. The average percentage benchmark doesn’t translate well to very low and very high incomes. If you’re in college living on stipends, the 2.91% clothing budget is probably way too high. If you’re an heiress who makes millions from your trust fund, the 2.91% could be practically obscene.
Setting your clothing budget
That’s why setting your own clothing budget isn’t as simple as picking a percentage and calling it a day. The only spending guideline that works is one that fits your income and reflects how you shop. A $1,200 annual clothing budget can be on point if you’re buying well‑priced, high‑rotation pieces. But it won’t hold if you only shop at Chanel. Budgeting works best when it’s realistic, not aspirational.
Read next: The Budget Fashionista’s intro to budgeting
What a 2.5% clothing budget looks like
The average U.S. gross income as of Q3 2025 is $63,128, which translates to roughly $47,000 in take‑home pay after typical taxes and deductions. Using that as a reference point, I calculated clothing budgets for take‑home incomes between $35,000 and $55,000, based on a 2% to 2.5% guideline. See the spending limits plus the “how to make it work” tips to identify your clothing budget sweet spot.
Annual take-home income of $35,000
- Annual clothing budget = $700 to $875
- Monthly clothing budget = $58 to $73
- Where you’re shopping. Old Navy, Amazon, resale
- How to make it work. Limit yourself to one splurge purchase annually, and don’t spend more than $150 on it. Stick to classic styles that won’t go out of style.
Annual take-home income of $40,000
- Annual clothing budget = $800 to $1,000
- Monthly clothing budget = $67 to $83
- Where you’re shopping. Old Navy, Amazon, Gap (from Sam’s Club), resale, Target, TJ Maxx
- How to make it work. Focus on building a reliable rotation rather than variety. Keep splurge purchases to one item per year, capped around $175, and only if it fills a real gap — say, a winter coat or work shoes. Prioritize pieces you can wear weekly and avoid trend‑driven items with short lifespans. Borrow and trade with friends for special occasions and trends.
Annual take-home income of $45,000
- Annual clothing budget = $900 to $1,125
- Monthly clothing budget = $75 to $93.75
- Where you’re shopping. Gap, Banana Republic Factory, J.Crew Factory, Amazon, Nordstrom Rack, department store sales
- How to make it work. This is where strategic upgrades start to make sense. You can afford one higher‑quality purchase annually, up to about $200 — if the rest of your wardrobe is primarily affordable basics. Use sales and resale to stretch your budget.
Annual take-home income of $50,000
- Annual clothing budget = $1,000 to $1,250
- Monthly clothing budget = $83 to $104
- Where you’re shopping. J.Crew, Madewell (sales), Everlane, Uniqlo, Nordstrom Rack, secondhand designer, Quince
- How to make it work. You have room to be selective. Instead of spreading your budget evenly, spend first on your most-worn categories — probably jeans and shoes. Limit trend purchases and aim for high‑rotation pieces that work across seasons. Consider tailoring one or two items a year to improve cost per wear.
Annual take-home income of $55,000
- Annual clothing budget = $1,100 to $1,375
- Monthly clothing budget = $92 to $115
- Where you’re shopping. Madewell, Everlane, Quince, J.Crew, COS, Sezane (selectively), resale
- How to make it work. This budget supports a less-is-more approach if you can stay disciplined. Cap impulse purchases and plan your splurges intentionally. Track how often you wear new items. If something doesn’t earn repeat wear within a month, it’s a signal to slow down and reassess future purchases.
Your European-inspired clothing budget
A good clothing budget is about clarity, not deprivation. If you shop intentionally and focus on cost per wear, a $700 to $1,300 annual budget can support a wardrobe you love — European‑inspired, of course.
Fashion
Fashion Credits from the Married to Medicine Season 12 Reunion: Toya Bush-Harris in Red Albina Dyla, Dr. Jackie in Elie Saab, Dr. Heavenly in Lena Berisha, and More!
The Married to Medicine Season 12 reunion brought the cast together in a unified display of red, with each woman interpreting the color through couture silhouettes, embellishment, and dramatic styling. From sculptural trains to sheer detailing, the looks balanced cohesion with individuality.
Take a look at the ensembles for the night:
Toya Bush-Harris wore a beaded halter gown by Albina Dyla, featuring cascading crystal strands and a plunging neckline. Styled by Mel Carnoahan, she paired the look with Christian Louboutin heels and diamond jewelry. Hair by Erica McCamey and makeup by George Miguel Arnone completed the look.
Dr. Contessa Metcalfe opted for a custom embellished gown by Design by Hanan with a dramatic overskirt. Styled by Hanan’s Bridal, she finished the look with Giuseppe Zanotti shoes and The BellaB Luxe jewelry. Hair by ShuCarra Cotchery and makeup by Arielle Wright.
Dr. Mimi Sanders chose an asymmetrical gown by Lena Berisha with a hip-high slit. Styled by Ryan Christopher, she paired the look with Sophia Webster heels and Tarja jewelry. Hair by Mke B2 and makeup by Vivrant Beauty.
Dr. Jackie Christie wore a halter gown by Elie Saab with fluid draping and a high slit. Styled by Daniel Hawkins, she paired the look with Tom Ford sandals and jewelry by With Clarity and Nadri. Hair by Rhondalyn Patterson and makeup by Joyua Gibson, with tailoring by Kemi Omoyosi.
Dr. Simone Whitmore appeared in a structured, embellished gown by Fashion House of Jazella Couture featuring strong shoulders and a plunging neckline. Styled by Marveale Williams, she completed the look with Christian Louboutin heels and ruby earrings. Hair by Yancey Edwards and makeup by Christopher Michael.
Quad Webb wore a long-sleeve draped gown by LSO Designs with a high slit and gathered waist detailing. Styled by Hollywood Larry, she paired the look with Christian Louboutin heels.
Hair by Q Hardy and makeup by Na’Chera Brown.
Dr. Heavenly Kimes wore a one-shoulder draped gown by Lena Berisha with embellishment and a thigh-high slit. Styled by Ryan Christopher, she paired the look with Nine West shoes and JoJos Atelier jewelry. Hair by Theo Barrett and makeup by Latisha Chancey.
Angel Love wore a one-shoulder embellished gown with a sculptural overskirt by Valdrin Sahiti, paired with Christian Louboutin heels. Hair by Allen Pazon, with makeup by Marlissa Monique.
Brandi Milton wore a floral appliqué gown by Valdrin Sahiti with matching gloves, styled with jewelry by Erickson Beamon and a corset by Top Shelf Corsetry. Hair by Iyana Winfield and makeup by Rodney Jon.
Across the board, the cast embraced red through varied textures—sheer mesh, satin, sequins, and appliqué—creating a cohesive visual story while highlighting individual styling choices. Whose look was your favorite?
Photo Credit: Jocelyn Prescod/Bravo
Fashion Bomb Daily is leveling up with the launch of Fashion Bomb Gold, an exclusive membership designed for fashion insiders, superfans, and industry tastemakers seeking elevated access and premium experiences.
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As Fashion Bomb Daily approaches its milestone anniversary, Fashion Bomb Gold signals a new era—one centered on access, community, and immersive fashion experiences.
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Fashion
The Lagos Paparazzi Flash: Ama Reginald and Sophia Egbueje in Hermes Kelly Bags, Bvlgari Jewelry, and Luxury Timepieces
Ama Reginald and Sophia Egbueje were spotted stepping out in Lagos, Nigerian by the Lagos Paparazzi, offering a look at the city’s luxury fashion scene through a display of designer accessories, fine jewelry, and statement styling.
Both women are part of a new wave of Nigerian influencers and socialites shaping digital fashion culture across Africa. Ama Reginald has built a strong following through lifestyle, beauty, and fashion content, while Sophia Egbueje is known for her presence as a model, entrepreneur, and social figure associated with high-end luxury and nightlife culture.
Their visibility extends beyond social media—together, they represent a Lagos-based aesthetic that merges global luxury brands with distinctly African influence and reach. Lagos continues to position itself as a major fashion capital, with its style set gaining international attention for its mix of luxury, creativity, and bold presentation.
In the images, the duo leaned into high-impact accessorizing. One look featured a red Hermès Kelly Sellier 20 bag in Epsom leather paired with Bvlgari Serpenti watches and diamond bracelets, while another highlighted a rare Hermès Mini Kelly 20 in Vert d’Eau alligator. Jewelry selections included Bvlgari Viper diamond bracelets and a Messika Move Uno bracelet crafted from 18-karat white gold, alongside an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Mini Frosted White Gold watch valued at approximately $90,000.
Hot! or Hmm..?
📸: The Lagos Paparazzi
Last weekend we spent most of the day outside, and it reminded me how much the girls love having their own little corner of the yard to play in. Between the flowers starting to bloom and the warmer weather finally showing up, it felt like the perfect time to make their little outdoor area come to life even more.
I had a few things on my list to order, simple pieces to encourage them to stay outside a little longer. Things like gardening kits so they can “plant” alongside us, magnifying toys to look at bugs and flowers, outdoor chalk and art supplies, pretend play toys, and a few sweet outdoor pieces that make their space feel like their own little world. It doesn’t take much, but adding a few colorful toys, garden tools, or a little play kitchen or picnic set to instantly turn the backyard into something they can explore all afternoon.
Below are some of the finds I found that feel perfect for spring, playful, colorful, and the kind of things that make outdoor days even better.
Fashion
Latto Debuts Baby Bump in White Lace Lingerie and Polka Dot Set in “Business and Personal (Intro)” Video
Latto has sparked conversation after debuting a visible baby bump in her latest video, “Business and Personal (Intro).” The Atlanta rapper appears in a series of styled scenes that highlight her changing silhouette, blending intimate visuals with fashion-forward looks.
In one standout moment, she wears a white lace lingerie set paired with matching shorts and an open button-down, creating a soft, tonal aesthetic. The look is styled in a minimal setting, allowing the focus to remain on her growing bump and natural glam.
In another scene, Latto poses atop a luxury vehicle in a sheer black polka dot two-piece set, complete with a coordinating umbrella and fur accents. The juxtaposition of delicate fabrics and bold staging adds a dramatic edge to the reveal.
While Latto has not publicly confirmed details surrounding the pregnancy, speculation continues to circulate online, with rumors suggesting that rapper 21 Savage may be the father. Neither party has addressed the claims.
The video marks a personal shift for the artist, pairing vulnerability with visual storytelling and curated styling moments that place her evolution front and center.
📸: Video stills/Reproduction
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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If you’re a fan of Adidas, there are a bunch of styles and colors on sale at Nordstrom right now. I’ve been pulled by all of the fun, bright colors.
These “Aurora Ivy and Shock Pink” sneakers are in the sale, along with some other really fun colors as well as some more neutral basics.
These (the Gazelle) were $120, but are now marked down to $89. It may have to be an “add to cart” kind of day…
Sales of note for 3/6:
- Nordstrom has a big beauty sale afoot, including lots of products that don’t normally go on sale. Reader favorites include this tinted balm, this other tinted balm, this concealer, and this exfoliating serum. (OK, this classic tinted balm also!)
- Ann Taylor – $40 off pants, $50 off jackets, 30% off tops and sweaters, and 40% off accessories — plus extra 50% off all sale
- Banana Republic Factory – 40% off + extra 20% off
- Bloomingdale’s – Beauty & Fragrance Promo: Take 15% off almost all $150+ purchases! (ends 3/8)
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Brooklinen – Friends & Family sale, enjoy 20% off sitewide and up to 50% off select bundles (ends 3/18)
- Brooks Brothers – Extra 25% off clearance + 25% off select jewelry
- Dermstore – Beauty Refresh sale, up to 20% off! Brands in the sale include Elta MD, Sunday Riley, and Augustinus Bader — and there’s a ton of HSA/FSA eligible things too. They also have some nice “best of Dermstore” kits, including a sunscreen selection!
- Elie Tahari – Try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Evereve – Spring sale!
- Express – $75 off $200, BOGO 50% off sitewide, and $25+ dresses
- J.Crew – 40% off spring-ready styles + extra 30% off all sale styles with code
- J.Crew Factory – 40% off everything + extra 50% off clearance
- Lo & Sons – End of winter sale, up to 50% off — reader favorites include this laptop tote, this backpack, and this crossbody
- M.Gemi – Friends & Family sale early access with code FF2025
- M.M.LaFleur – Wear to Work Bundle, buy 2 items get 15% off; buy 3 items get 20% off (you can also try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off)
- Nordstrom – 4,000 new markdowns for women! Cardmembers get a $20 note for every $200 you spend (ends 3/8)
- Ruti – 20% off Core Collection
- Saks OFF5TH – Liquidation sale, up to 80% off! Everything final sale.
- Soma – $30 bra event, save up to 60%
- Talbots – 25% off entire purchase, plus free shipping on $150+
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
- The Wall Street Journal [gift link] talked to dermatologists and facialists about the skincare treatments celebs use before big events.
- Popular Science reported on new analysis from mathematicians at Northwestern confirming the common observation that fashion trends frequently resurface every 20 years or so.
- Vogue wondered whether the girlboss is making a comeback.
- Harvard Business Review looked at accent bias at work.
- The 19th explained how the women leading the farmworker movement won’t let it be defined by the sexual abuse allegations against Cesar Chavez.
- The Wall Street Journal [gift link] shared a quiz about minimizing taxes on your investments.
- NPR shared four post-workout essentials to boost performance and prevent injury.
- Your Laugh of the Week comes from The Hard Times, with “Tesla Hides Drive Mode Behind Subscription Paywall.”
Noteworthy Threadjacks This Week…
On CorporetteMoms Recently…
Are you a mom or mom-to-be? Don’t miss this week’s news update at CorporetteMoms.
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Step onto the green with the ultimate fusion of British tailoring and high-performance engineering. We are thrilled to offer you early access to the highly anticipated Paul Smith + Castore Golf collaboration. This exclusive...
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Experience the elegance of the season at Dublin’s only five-star urban resort. InterContinental Dublin invites you to celebrate the arrival of spring with curated Easter Breaks and Spring Stays designed for effortless relaxation. Nestled in the heart of leafy Ballsbridge, our resort offers a tranquil escape just moments from the city center. Whether you are taking advantage of our exclusive Spring Sale or planning a memorable family gathering over the Easter weekend, you’ll find the perfect balance of sophisticated luxury and warm Irish hospitality in our spacious guestrooms and sun-drenched gardens.
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Easter at InterContinental Dublin
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