by Sara Sota

Created on: February 19, 2008

You can dress yourself on a budget AND look like a million bucks.

1.Clean out your closet
Remove items that are stained, torn, not a flattering style or color on you or do not fit.

2.Familiarize yourself with your season.
Knowing this will help you see what colors look best on you.
Do you favor warm or cool tones?
Silver or gold jewelery?
This book will help "Color Me Beautiful" by Carole Jackson.

3.Make a list of what you will need.
Knowing what you need,you can be on the lookout for what will go with what you already have.
You can save time and money if the pieces in your wardobe go well together.

4.Window shop online. Find what styles suit you. Sears and Lands End offer a feature where you can create a virtual model of yourself and "try on" outfits.
Search the internet for what you like- dont limit yourself to a poverty/thrift store mentality.
Nordstroms, JCrew and Macy's are good places to start.
Bookmark the site or note item numbers of outfits you like so when the prices get marked down on clearance -you can buy them at the lowest price.

5.Accessories are cheap and a few nice things add a
touch of luxury to your look.
Less is more here.And quality counts.
A good brand name purse makes a good first impression.

6.Make friends with a personal shopper.
She is a blessing and can help you get what you need, as well as give you helpful advice.
I met such a woman at Macy's. She offered to help me with anything from selecting clothing to watching my baby while I dressed.She is who I will call when I get my government refund money.

7. Did you know ebay sells new designer clothes you can bid on? Some of the lingo used here NWT means new with tags NWOT new without tags. www.ebay.com. Ebay sellers also offer used designer clothes at a fraction of the original cost.

8.Finally, don't deprive yourself of looking your very best because you are on a limited budget.You are beautiful and there is no one in the world exactly like you.
God made you.
Looking our best makes us women feel good about ourselves.
And when we look good and feel good we shine.

Learn more about this author, Sara Sota.
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