How to Look Like a Diva on a Budget

You want to turn heads wherever you go, but worry that you can't afford the fashions and accessories to do it. With the right shopping strategies, however, you can have the hair, clothes and makeup of a diva while staying on budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Discover designer clothes at low prices by looking for "irregulars" at discount stores. Although they didn't pass the manufacturer inspection, most garments have flaws that you won't even notice. Chain stores also drastically cut prices on pieces that have just gone out of season.

2. Fill your closet with basic pieces that you can wear for several seasons, then live up to your "diva" reputation by dressing them up with flashy accessories like scarves, necklaces and belts that you've bought on sale.

3. Browse at secondhand or consignment shops located in affluent areas, since you're likely to discover more designer items there. Look for garments that you can inexpensively alter if they're a size too big or too small.

4. Get a cutting-edge hairstyle at a discount by having it done at a beauty school or during a training session at a major hair salon. Because the cosmetologists are learning the latest techniques (they'll be supervised the entire time), you'll get the cut at a deep discount.

5. Stay within your makeup budget by knowing which items available at drugstores are just as effective as designer brands. Professional makeup artists, for example, consistently tout an inexpensive leading mascara brand as their top choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be tempted to buy an item just because it's on sale or because it fits in with the diva look. Be sure you can mix and match it with other pieces in your wardrobe before you buy it. An inexpensive purchase won't benefit your budget if you never wear it.