Budget Fashion: A Common Sense Approach to Dressing Well

HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW Find a hair style that will work with your hair type, not against it. Make it clear to your stylist that you want a low-maintenance hairdo. You'll save time and money as haircuts will be required less frequently, and you'll need fewer styling products and gadgets.

SIMPLE STATEMENTS Pick simple, classic jewelry of which you won't easily tire to wear on a daily basis. Wear small-to-medium sized hoops or simple ball-shaped earrings if you have pierced ears. Invest in an elegant chain measuring about 18 inches. This length will coordinate with most of your clothings' necklines. Gold and sterling silver are equally versatile. You may want to match your watch or wedding ring. Don't worry about wearing the same jewelry every day. It will become your signature look.

NIFTY NAILS Learn to give yourself a manicure. The cost of a weekly manicure can add up quickly. If you find you're not blessed with a steady hand when applying polish, use clear nail polish. It adds just enough shine and strengthens and protects your nails.

WET VS. DRY Consider the cost of dry cleaning when you purchase clothing. Dry cleaning significantly increases your clothing budget. I try to limit the articles in my wardrobe which must be dry cleaned to blazers, vests, and special-occasion dresses which require only occasional cleaning. You can find many items labeled "Machine Wash", if you're willing to search.

THE FAMILY PLAN Pick a color family and buy separates from that color group for your wardrobe that will mix and match with other pieces. I prefer black for my main pieces of winter clothing. I also mix in gray separates. For a little color punch, I use bright tones such a burgundy, royal blue, and plum in blouses, shells and scarves. Vary the texture and fabric of your main pieces for added interest. If you stay in one color family, you will also need fewer accessories such as jewelry, purses and shoes.

SUPER SCARVES Scarves can completely change the look of an outfit. Look for bold patterns which will coordinate with your blazers and blouses. Scarves come in varying shapes and sizes and there are many ways to tie them for different looks.

CLEARLY CLASSIC Look for classic lines in your main wardrobe components. You can satisfy your longing for the latest trends through less expensive pieces such as camisoles, scarves, and costume jewelry.

COAT COLOR Choose outerwear in your chosen color family for a coordinated look. Pick a coat length which will work with dresses and slacks. Again, look for a classic style that will remain in fashion for seasons to come.

CROSS-OVERS Buy clothes for your work wardrobe that can do double duty as casual wear. For instance, the blazer you wear with a skirt on Tuesday can be worn with jeans when you go to the movies on Friday night.

SPAN THE SEASONS Look for styles and fabrics which can be worn two or more seasons of the year. While a wool tweed blazer definitely says "winter", a knit cardigan could be worn year 'round. A dress made of a medium-weight fabric with three-quarter length sleeves is a versatile "season-spanner". A sweater or blazer can be worn with the dress in cold weather.

TERRIFIC TEES Buy a few well-made, short-sleeve t-shirts. Wear them all summer, then use them as shells under button-front shirts, cardigans and blazers in cooler weather. Pay special attention to the construction of the necklines of these shirts as that's what will show under other garments.

SENSIBLE SHOES Find a shoe that's comfortable and flattering to your feet and legs in your color family which can be worn with skirts or slacks. Flats are a versatile style which work well with most clothing as do chunky heel styles. Even if you love heels, I wouldn't recommend a heel higher than 2" for every day wear.

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE Go through your closet. Be realistic and brutal. Identify which pieces you wear time and time again and plan to base your wardrobe on those pieces. Look for items you could wear if altered. Mend anything needing repair. Clear out things you haven't worn in a year and those pieces which you like but are getting a little worn. If you have enough discarded items, hold a rummage sale and get a little cash for the things you no longer need. Or you could donate them to charity. Get a receipt for your donations, and you can deduct them on your tax return.

PATIENCE PAYS When you need to replace wardrobe items, try to hold out until the end of the season when the clothing is likely to be on sale.

SHOPPING STRATEGY Once you've gone through your closet, you can make a master list of pieces you need to fill out your wardrobe. When you shop, don't get distracted by items on the clearance rack that are cheap, but look for the pieces that provide you with the most versatility. You need a plan so you don't end up with a closet full of mismatched impulse buys.