by Alicia Butler

Created on: October 12, 2008   Last Updated: October 20, 2008

Dressing stylishly for the holiday season doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune. By coordinating pieces in your current wardrobe and adding a few inexpensive accessories, you'll be able to attend any holiday event while letting your friends, family, and co-workers believe you bought several new outfits.

First, take a look at your current wardrobe. Do you have a simple black dress? What condition are your shoes in? Do you have any items in storage you may be able to "resurrect?" By taking stock of what items you love that you have already, you'll be able to figure out what looks fabulous with your current items.

Your first stop to finding pieces you'll need that you do not own already should be a consignment store. Consignment shops have come a long way since the Salvation Army and Goodwill. While both stores have a great selection of gently used clothing, searching through large racks of unorganized clothes can be great for anyone who has unlimited time. However, many consignment shops offer racks organized by color and size, items designed by local artists, and many new and designer fashions. The best finds at these stores? Designer jeans and sweaters can be found at a fraction of the retail price and many items will still have their original tags.

Your next stop will be stores that offer discounts on items considered to be, "last year's" fashions. Many stores offer clothes and accessories that were ordered in bulk by department stores and never sold. These stores will have an amazing selection of dresses, body products, purses, shoes and wallets. Its easier to buy an accessory you've fallen in love with and build a simple outfit around your favorite pair of shoes than it is to match shoes to each outfit. These stores will have a large selection of shoes and purses that will pop out in any wardrobe.

EBay Express will be your best resource to find great accessories that very few others will own. At ebayexpress.com you'll find some unique pieces of jewelry that range from antiques to designer jewelry, to handcrafted pieces. Plus, you have the option to purchase items immediately, without worrying if you'll win the bid.

Finally, don't be afraid to haggle with stores. If you see an article of clothing that has been returned or has a small flaw at any clothing store, ask for a discount. If the salesperson you ask says, "no," ask for their manager. Generally, people want to please you and they want return business. Plus, it doesn't hurt to ask- the worst answer you can get is no. With a little research, you'll be surprised how easy it is to find a unique and personalized wardrobe without spending a fortune this holiday season.

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