by Elisabeth Knapp

Created on: June 11, 2009   Last Updated: June 16, 2009

Keeping up with the latest fashions and trends can be difficult, particularly if you're on a budget. It is also made difficult by the fact that fashions change so quickly these days. It can literally be only a couple of months before something is deemed no longer fashionable.

The golden rule for fashion on a budget is to invest in the style staples that won't be going out of fashion any time soon. Here are the 'magnificent 7': 1) a good pair of black trousers 2) some quality jeans that suit your shape 3) a tailored jacket (black, beige or white - something neutral that can be worn with anything) 4) a white cotton blouse 5) a little black dress 6) black knee high boots 7)some quality flat shoes.

This obviously requires an outlay of cash in the beginning but believe me it's worth it. The trick now is to mix and match the items you have for different occasions, and to add to these items different accessories that can be acquired cheaply. Scarves and handbags instantly change an outfit and do not have to be expensive to look good.

Another tip when it comes to style is to go out to the high street, look at the items you want and then go online to find the best price: look for sales and online discounts. You may even find the same item on ebay for a fraction of the cost. Also many high street stores take inspiration from designer brands, so you are likely to find a similar version only much more affordable. Who's going to know it's not designer?

When I'm low on cash, I tend to do a lot of shopping in charity shops - you won't believe some of the bargains I've picked up. I once found a pair of Gucci heels for 10! Also you can also find items that are brand new. The trick with charity shops is to go to the ones where the people with money live - you'll find that the things donated are of much better quality and very often designer!

Make do and mend - this is another great way to keep up to date without splurging the cash. I very often try to update items I already have and you don't have to be a dab hand with a sewing machine either. One thing I often do, is change the buttons on cardigans. There are some buttons you can get with fabulous colours and designs and it can really give a face lift to an old sweater. Another thing I use is washing machine dye - for example anything black that has started to fade, by a black washing machine dye and your items will come out looking brand new!

Finally if you're a shopaholic like me and just can't resist the urge to spend, why not sell you're unwanted clothes first to make some money for the new? Ebay obviously is a good way to do this, or why not have a yard sale? One woman's bargain bin is another woman's fashion heaven!

Learn more about this author, Elisabeth Knapp.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.