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When times get tough, the first thing to feel the pain is the clothing budget. Instead of a wardrobe of new outfits, stretching the wardrobe you have seems like a better option. But there is no need to despair of ever looking stylish again, because there are many ways you can keep up your standards even on a restricted budget.

First, go through your wardrobe. Separate all the things you never wear, the clothes that don't fit properly, and the clothes you love and wear all the time into bundles. The trick here is to add those clothes you never wear - even the ones that don't fit - into the Love to Wear pile.

The clothes that make you feel good are the style that suits you best. Clothes that are comfortable, fit well and draw compliments are your style. Take a good hard look at these clothes. They will be your guide to making the rest of your wardrobe fit the bill without breaking the bank.

What style of tops, skirts, pants and dresses fall into this pile? Do you favor tank tops, straight skirts and long pants? Or do embroidered blouses teamed with gypsy skirts and knee length pants make you feel good and elicit compliments? Now look at the other two piles - you will quickly see why you don't feel your best in these clothes. They will be too tight, too loose, the wrong colour, the wrong length.

As a rule of thumb, clothes that fit comfortably look better than clothes pinch or sag. Colors that make you feel happy and confident are better than colors that don't do anything for your mood. Feeling happy in your clothes is the key to looking good.

Be very honest and choose those items you know you can alter to fit your style. Give away the rest - it is false economy to hang onto something you bought on impulse, but would never wear. Pass them on, and concentrate on those items you know can be saved.

Sometimes it is just a simple alteration that is all that is required. If a blouse or top fits right on the body, but the sleeves are annoying or too tight, try removing the sleeves. If a skirt looks good on you but is too long, shorten it. Try to save as many of your clothes as you can. When they are wearable, you will get your value out of them.

But what if your wardrobe isn't extensive enough to take this kind of treatment, or most of your clothes are worn out and you really need to buy more clothes? It's time to hit the recycling shops. Buying recycled clothing and fabric may not be your first option, but why not give it a try? You will be very surprised at what you find,

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