by Michelle B. Smith

Created on: July 18, 2009

The key to most successful things is planning ahead and a little bit of luck. While shopping as a whole can entail splurging and frivolous buys, those of us on a budget are bound by these two basic rules of thumb. Shopping on a budget can be tasking for the true fashionistas at heart but that does not have to be the case. By following these simple rules you can dress like a star and keep your pockets full. During the recession, green is definitely the new black.

Set Time Aside for a Fashion Audit

This is essential in your fashion quest for clothes. Season after season have you found yourself staring at a closest full of black pants with no color? Or even wondering where that chic fleece sweater disappeared to? If so, it is time to get organized and conduct a fashion audit. You cannot shop for new items if you do not know what you already own, what to match and what you desperately need.

Firstly, take out all of your clothing, shoes, and jewelry. Sort through items to find pieces that no longer fit, are not age appropriate, or are out of date. These items can be donated or resold at stores such as Buffalo Exchange or your local consignment shop. The good aspect about Buffalo Exchange is that you can sell your clothes and jewelry to the store upfront unlike in a consignment shop and receive money in return or trade for clothing. This is a great start to the new fashion you.

After getting rid of ill fitting clothing, begin to list what you have, need, or need to match. If you have quality leather shoes and jackets, you can check that off of your fashion list of needs. If you have an abundance of brightly colored clothing but no solid classic colors to match, make a note that you will need to focus your shopping on traditional pieces. For many older women, the need will be the opposite. Many mature women tend to purchase such traditional items, they neglect having signature pieces that have that wow factor of a bright color or unique material or texture. Once you have all your items sorted through and know what you need, it is time to go shopping.

Invest in Timeless Pieces Where Quality Counts

I hear too many women bragging about the deal for $10 jeans or 2 for $8 shirts that they purchased. While I am a huge fan of discounts, cheaper does not always mean better. Consider the following point. You invest $350 in quality leather purse. That purse will need minimal upkeep and when it does, most high end purses come with a warranty or maintenance option from

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