The Thrifty Actor: Part VII

Don't let your dollar hang out to dry...haha

Clothes: Looking Good for Cheap

Don't pay retail. 

Go to off price retailers like TJMaxx, Marshalls, and Loehmanns. Even Target has some cute clothes that can be good for auditions. Start at the back of the store with the clearance sections, you may be surprised at what you find there. For the best audition dress selection - try Ross. They have racks and racks of dresses. (Cue jingle: I got it at Ross!)

Go thrifting! 

Thrifting is a like hunting. On a plentiful day you may have enough to supply your closet for a season, on a spare day you may come back starving. Okay - maybe that metaphor was stretched, but thrifting is a fun way to incorporate unusual elements into your closet for cheap. People give up clothes for all kinds of reasons - but mostly - because they just didn't like them anymore or they just didn't fit. Before you purchase at the thrift store, inspect the garment's seams for rips and check the buttons and zippers for functionality. 

Re: Check Union Site for Discounts.

 The Conrad Cantzen Shoe Fund reimburses unemployed actors up to $40 for a new pair of shoes so they can look good while pounding the pavement. 

Trade. 

Have a friend your size? Recycle a few pieces you are tired of and get something new in exchange. Or just borrow something for some added sass to your step.

Deduct it, Baby

Again, save your receipts for tax time. You can write off a "reasonable" amount of clothing bought for job seeking expenses.