If I detailed what I spent on clothing last year, a gang of you would drive to my house and put a cap in my ass.
So let's say that I spent about 1% of AGI on clothing. And this year, I'll reduce spending by about 90%.
Ha! I actually don't know how much I spent, but I recently lost about 40 lbs - too much to alter some work clothes economically, and so my closet is the picture of paucity.
That said, I think that at least some of how much one spends on clothing depends on one's 'industry'. In my job, business dress - suits and ties for men, suits for women - is the rule. I'm also formaldehyde-sensitive, which means I can't wear fiber blends, because formaldehyde is frequently used in finishing the cloth. 100% wool suits (polyester gets a funky smell when I wear it) are not cheap. Right now, I'm rocking three 3-piece wool suits (blazer, pants, skirt for a total of 6 unique outfits).
So, instead of listing my spending, I'll share my strategies for keeping spending under control:
1. Have a strong dislike for shopping.
2. Choose one or two neutrals. I chose navy and brown. If the item isn't navy or brown, or doesn't go with navy or brown, it's not coming home with me. I chose two neutrals that aren't black because, frankly, EVERYONE makes black clothes, a shitload of them, EVERY season. Navy/Brown? Things that go with navy/brown? Not so much - nothing like a little self-imposed shortage to make holding on to money easier.
3. In the one neutral vein? Buy separates. Yesterday, I wore a navy skirt with a navy cotton t-shirt, and got tons of compliments on my 'dress'.
And guess what? I can wear those pieces separately again this week if I feel like it.
4. Know what brands/sizes fit your body best, and stick with those.
5. Buy quality items that will last. Buy 'em on clearance.
6. Treat your clothes like you want them to last.
7. Use a tailor. If you can alter your clothing yourself, do it. If the clothes fit funny, they're gonna wear funny.
8. Buying quality goes for shoes, too. Buy classic styles with leather soles, treat them gently, and resole them.
9. Use napkins. Wash your hands. Change clothes as soon as you get home. In other words, keep your clothes clean.