Spring's best style bargains: don't sacrifice looking terrific just because money's tight! Here's a getting-dressed guide for the babe on a budget--including crafty cash-saving strategies, cheap-but-chic finds, and wear-everywhere buys. (Bonus Section Budget-friendly Fashions).(Brief Article)

5 Secrets to Shopping Smart

* Define your style and stick to it. Think about the image you like to project and give it a name--maybe it's "racy rocker" or "sweet sophisticate." Now resolve to buy only the trends that fit your special style. So if you love ladylike clothes and the kitten heels that go with them, don't buy funky platforms just because they're trendy. They won't look right with your wardrobe, they won't feel "you," and you'll be plagued with buyer's remorse.

* Look for long-term relationships--and nix one-night stands. Before you take an item up to the cash register, ponder how many different places you can wear it and how it works with what you already own. If you're buying a frilly shirt to pair with a girlie skirt for a party, you should also be able to dress it down by wearing it under a denim blazer. If you can't think of more than a few possible uses for a potential purchase, don't shell out.

* Drop dough on classics; scrimp on the fads. Spend no more than 20 percent of your fashion budget on one-season trends. Learn to ID which items ...