Smart Shopping Secrets

Patricia Field, costume designer for the new movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, reveals how to get big-screen fashion on a real girl’s budget.

1. Try Bold Colors
"Don't be afraid to experiment with different hues, especially really bright shades. Color is an excellent opportunity to express your personality and set yourself apart from other people. It's one of the best ways to cultivate a signature style of your own."

2. Be Your Own Stylist
"When I'm creating a wardrobe for a character, I'm given a script as a jumping-off point. Find something that inspires you — like a favorite movie."

3. Browse for Bargains
"Thrift stores are full of inexpensive surprises. Zara also puts out high-quality, stylish things at a cheaper price, as does Noir Jewelry."

4. Splurge Now and Then
"If an item catches your eye, like a great bag, and you know you'll wear or use it a lot, then invest in it."

5. Mix High- and Low-End
"You don't have to wear labels to look great. The movie's main character has many outfits that include cheaper items, like the colorful coats she wears."

6. Slim Down for Spring
"This season, body-skimming styles are in. If you buy a sleek dress now, you'll wear it for years."

7. Go Shiny
"It's easier to find gorgeous, inexpensive shoes in synthetics, like metallic or patent, instead of leather. I design a line for Payless, and the construction is as good as it is for a pricier pair of shoes."

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