by Kate Johns

Created on: October 09, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Trip the light fantastic this holiday season with a new outfit that didn't cost a dime. That's right you can get a new outfit for free, or for hardly any money at all. All you have to do is start shopping now, be creative, and do a little fun sleuthing work. Oh yes, and you may have to beg, borrow and possibly clean out that attic.

Here are ten tips on finding the most comfortable, inexpensive holiday outfit:

1. Start shopping early. Don't wait until you are invited to holiday parties. Start scouring the stores for a stellar outfit now! This way you can find the right clothing before the deals are gone.

2. Shop thrift stores and garage sales for your ensemble. Shop thrift stores in more expensive neighborhoods; women will have dropped off last year's outfit. Garage sales are showing wedding, prom dresses, and holiday outfits. Many times women are selling pieces of outfits such as a blouse, or a shell, that can be worn under a new glittery sweater.

3. Scour the clearance racks of major retailers. The other day at a big box store I found the prettiest blouse, that was perfect for the holidays for under five dollars. Not only can I wear it under a jacket for business meetings, I can also wear it for holiday gatherings.

4. Become the most chic woman at any holiday function by wearing authentic clothing from your own attic. Just make certain that it still fits, and that it doesn't smell like mothballs.

5. Save money this holiday season by buying only one new item to wear to holiday gatherings. Substitute that glittery blouse for a new one this year and wear different slacks.

6. Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable. Don't wear your pajamas trekking form party to party. Only Hugh Hefner gets away with wearing pajamas in public. For the holidays wear dressier jeans with a colorful top that shows off your stellar figure.

7. There's always that little black dress. Compliment it with great accessories and you have an outfit that can be worn throughout the holiday season. You can even wear a thrift shop sweater with it, to create a different look.

8. Get your new holiday outfit for FREE! Set up a clothing exchange party with other women. Have some fun while finding the right outfit. All you have to do is throw a party at home and invite your friends and relatives.

9. Borrow an outfit from a relative or your best friend. This way you have a free outfit to wear, while you can return the favor.

10. Create your own outfit. Buy a garage sale or thrift shop dress, and take the bow off, or dye it black. The sky is the limit! You can do anything you want with this outfit to create the look you desire.

Wear clothing that is in style by raiding your own attic, or your Mother's for that matter. Any era is in style now, so anything goes. Shop at discount stores, scour the clearance racks and be creative. You're going to love the deals you found!

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