by Laurel Michaels

Created on: June 15, 2008   Last Updated: June 16, 2008

I have a friend who can walk into a clothing store, quickly scan the sales racks, pull out a marked down turquoise and brown paisley blouse and declare it the perfect thing to match a skirt, pants and capris she has at home. Bingo, the gal just got three outfits for $3.99. If you are a woman, you'll agree that this is a talent which ranks right up there with being able to style your hair after a new haircut, the same way the hairdresser did. Both are talents I do not possess. However, I have learned a thing or two from my friend about dressing stylishly while on a budget.

We've all heard the advice to buy some wardrobe basics, then mix and match them. But before you head to the store, look around your closet for things you can mix and match already. You may have a couple more outfits right there in front of you by just thinking a little outside the box (or hanger, in this case). Do you have a black pin striped suit and a black solid suit? Pair the solid skirt with the striped jacket or vice versa. What I love about my friend's style is that she is not afraid to mix colors. Pale pink or blue looks great with brown or black. If you have a turquoise print dress, throw that red suit jacket over it and see how it looks. Purple or lavender mixed with gray or black is another good combination. Whether you are conservative or flamboyant, you can probably mix up your current wardrobe to create another outfit or two.

When you do head to the store, which stores are best for bargains? This depends on the kind of shopper you are. Some people are impatient shoppers, and don't relish the thought of hunting through racks and racks of used clothing looking for the perfect blouse for $.99. Used clothing stores, garage sales, and flea markets or swap meets are great places to find good deals, but they do require some patience. Consignment stores or vintage clothing stores are more fun to look through, and you can find some unique pieces and accessories for pretty cheap. Look out for impulse buying - that beautiful beaded clutch purse isn't a good buy if it just sits in your closet because you rarely go out anywhere that you can take it.

Major department stores always have sales racks. Check those first when you are shopping. Look in your Sunday paper for advertisements for upcoming sales. Many stores like Macy's and Penney's send out coupons to customers that hold their credit cards and give additional discounts if you charge your purchases to their card. Be careful though! It's

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