You don't have to go bankrupt to look like a million bucks.

Looking for items within your price range and paying attention to trendy colors and classic cuts might be easier than you think.  Looking at the lining of a coat if you are in the market for one will give you a good idea of how well the rest of the garment is constructed.

DON'T BE A FASHION VICTIM

Dressing chic doesn't mean you have to be a walking billboard for the designers.  The fashion "in house rule" is if you have more than one initial designer name displayed on your outfit, you are classified as a "Fashion Victim".  Let's face it, regardless of if they are real or a knock-off, logos look cheesy and cheap.  Choose your celebrities wisely if your are planning to emulate their style.  Think Sarah Jessica Parker or Demi Moore.

PAY ATTENTION TO DETAIL:

Look for good quality fabrics, as discount stores sometimes have awesome deals that are purchased as closeouts from department stores.  If you are buying a garment that has cheap buttons, replace them with quality ones and see what happens.  Making your garment stand out in a chic way is all about staying focused on details.

FLATTERING IS A MUST:

I don't care if mini skirts are in style, if you don't have the legs for it, do go there?.

Clothes that are considered chic will never sag or hang, pull or highlight the parts of your body that should really be concealed.  

FABRIC IS THE KEY:

If you are on budget try to choose fibers that are found in nature.

They tend to wear beautifully and keep their shape much better when properly maintained.

IT'S ALL AOUT THE SHOES?.

If you don't have a great pair of shoes on, the whole outfit is a waste.  Invest in black pumps, they are great with a suit for work or jeans and a trendy shirt.  Peep toed pumps for the summer are a must, and of course so are flirty flats?us girls just can't live without them.   If you have any money left over, having a classic pair of boots is sexy and stylish addition.

TRENDY vs. CLASSIC

If you are investing your hard earned money into a particular designer, choose a classic fit that will live beyond today's trend, and will last for more than a few seasons.  

IT'S ALL IN THE ATTITUDE

The trick to looking chic is not spending a bloody fortune, but pulling it off by looking elegant, and carrying it confidently, with flair.  If you haven't yet found your own style, make it a point to leaf through fashion magazines and designer's websites.  Find what you like and see if you can find a style of your own.

Some of the designers that are safe to live by:  Manolo Blahnik, Chanel, Ferragamo, Yves Saint Laurent for shoes,  Louis Vuitton & Hermes for bags.   Dior for sunglasses .

Now let's go shopping.