YOUR FRIENDS' ACTIVITY

    6 Smart Shopping Secrets

    Esteemed Costume Designer Patricia Field reveals how to get big-screen fashion on a real girl's budget.

    Browse for BargainsBrowse 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." Necklace, $39.95, Noir for Patricia Field, hsn.com.
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    Splurge Now and ThenSplurge 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." Bag, Hype, $225, endless.com.
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    Mix High- and Low-EndMix 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." Coat, Club Monaco, $249, clubmonaco.com.
    Related: Five Secrets A Fashion Stylist Won't Tell You






    Slim Down for SpringSlim Down for Spring






    "This season, body-skimming styles are in. If you buy a sleek dress now, you'll wear it for years." Dress, Khaki Krew, $62, edressme.com.
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    Go ShinyGo 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." Shoes, Patricia Field for Payless, $38, payless.com.
    Related: The 20 Guy-Approved Heels That Will Turn Him On






    Be Your Own StylistBe 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."









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