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A monogram Louis Vuitton handbag will give you a piece of instant style, but true style doesn't come from wearing obvious labels. Think about style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jacqui O. These women aren't remembered for wearing a particular designer label, they are remembered for having a beautiful, understated style.

You too can achieve this look if you select clothing that suits you and combine it in an elegant manner. The great news is that this doesn't have to cost a fortune it simply involves shopping smartly.

The number one rule when shopping is to only buy items that suit your figure type and coloring. If you wear clothes that really suit you, you will look stylish no matter what the latest trends are. Flattering clothes will also help you look a million dollars even if you've spent very little.

Make sure you build yourself a wardrobe of great classic staples. If you have all the basics on hand you won't find yourself having those "I've got nothing to wear" dilemmas. This will also allow you to spend some money on accent pieces and accessories which can really differentiate your style. Consider items like the classic white shirt, great fitting jeans and black pants, cashmere knitwear, the LBD etc. etc.

Always carry a list of what you need and don't buy anything unless it is on this list. Creating a list involves going through your wardrobe and regularly assessing what new additions would make the most of your wardrobe. If you stick to your list and stop impulse buying you will have more money for great pieces that work with your wardrobe and lifestyle.

Assess the success of your past purchases. Businesses look at reporting statements to see what has been successful for them and what has not. Do the same for your wardrobe, what purchases have you worn the most? What purchases sat in the back of the closet? This is invaluable information for future purchasing.

Try not to pay full price for anything. These days stores are regularly have sales so try to resist the temptation to purchase an item when it first hits the stores. If you love particular brands sign up to their loyalty programs and make friends with the sales assistants. This way you will be notified of special offers.

Buy clothes out of season when they are at their most discounted. Towards the end of each season stores discount their stock heavily to make way for the new season's stock. A basic bikini or cashmere sweater will still be in fashion when the right season comes around.

Shop around and consider all your shopping choices. Other then department stores, chain stores and luxury stores you should consider factory outlets, internet shopping, second hand stores, swap meets, eBay and garage sales.

When regarding a bargain ask yourself two key questions. Firstly would you buy the item at full price? Secondly would you buy it without the designer name attached? If you can't answer yes to these two questions you probably don't like the style altogether that much so stop and save your money for something you will. Always listen to that gut feeling which will tell you whether you love a piece or not. Don't be talked into a purchase.

Make money from your current wardrobe to boost your spending money. If you feel like a change sell some of your older items. You can try selling them on eBay, have a garage sale or market stall or sell them through a consignment store.

Learn more about this author, Kimberley Heit.
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