In my early, post-grad days in NYC, I thought I had to keep up with every fashion trend that came along. This misguided style mentality resulted in a pile of credit card bills and a closet full of mismatched items with no unifying theme or longevity. In my quest to be fashionable, I had forgotten about the basics.

For those of you on a budget (and who isn’t these days?), making sure that you have certain wardrobe basics in your closet is essential. From a white button-down to a neutral suit and sweater-set, certain key styles never go out of fashion. Once you’ve got the wardrobe basics covered, updating your look each season is as easy (and wallet-friendly) as buying new shoes and accessories.

(Image credit: PriceGrabber)

It only took having to buy underwear in an airport once for me to make the decision never to check a bag again. While this decision means I have fewer shoes and outfits to wear on my journeys, it also means I spend less money getting ready for vacations (there are only so many 3 oz. bottles you can squeeze in that ziploc). Packing light is just one way I save money on holidays - check out the rest of my cheap travel tips here.

Shop like mad to save the economy, or sock away every penny to ride out the recession? That is the question. My answer to the current financial disaster? Somewhere in the middle. Until the government decides to give us all a bailout, I'm planning on tightening my discretionary spending (sorry, Sephora) and saving more. Since this doesn't mean I'm going pull a Frauline Maria and start fashioning clothes out curtains, however, I still need to shop. To help me get the most out of my clothing budget, I've put together this handy list of easy ways to save money on clothes - all without looking like your 401k has just been decimated.

I purchased Healthy FX as part of my bridal beauty kit, but have fallen so in love with it, I can't imagine using anything else. Read my full review here, and don't forget to add your own comments and reviews to the mix!