Five Fashionable Tips for Revitalizing Your Clothes on a Budget

Every so often, I open my closet, glance through my attire options, and whimper. Isn't there a Gorgeous Clothes Good Fairy who can wave a magic wand and transform my weary wardrobe into fashion-fabulous frocks?

I don't want to go into debt due to vanity, but I do long for a way to revitalize my clothes. Inspired by desperation, I experimented with different ways to give new life to my wardrobe. And here are my top five best solutions (David Letterman, get envious!):

1. Invite friends to a clothing swap. The concept: everyone brings a few items that are in reasonably good shape. For example, I had a dark brown blouse that I bought on sale. Perfectly good fabric, beautifully cut - and every time I took it from my closet, I glanced at it - and put it back. My friend Michelle loved it, and it looks fabulous on her -- and I exchanged it for her soft red sweater that I've always envied. No money exchanged, and everyone emerges with "new" attire!

2. Set aside any prejudices you may have and discover the potential glamor occasionally hidden in rummage sales, yard sales, and your local thrift store. Yes, the clothes are used (but so were the hand-me-downs from your friends). The trick: read the labels (I've found some designer clothing gems), check the quality of the fabric and degree of "wear and tear," and don't hesitate to negotiate. If an item needs dry-cleaning, for example, point that out. I've also acquired accessories such as brooches, scarves, mufflers, and more for mere pennies (as in 25 cents!). Spruce up your wardrobe inexpensively and, in many cases, feel good about donating to a non-profit you support.

3. Look for clothing sample sales. If you live near a clothing manufacturer, you may be able to snag some beautifully made new garments at so-called "sample" sales. Although these vary in price cuts, it's worth checking out.

4. Shop your closet. For example, look at the buttons, collars, and other easily exchanged items on your clothes. Freshening up a sweater with a set of gorgeously carved wooden buttons from your mother's ancient blazer just might turn a "bored with it" item into something you adore!

5. When you do need a particular clothing item (such as a new winter coat), take a vow to avoid impulse shopping. Study the prices and options online first, so that you can do your research. Look for sales and coupons, and compare retail store prices with those online.