Tips for shopping on a budget

Want to save some green while shopping for the most stylish finds? Join the club. When you shop on a budget, think of it this way: You're still shopping, still getting retail therapy -- you're just setting limits. You're thinking style, not trend. Must-have versus nice-to-have. Necessity versus want.

FIRST RULE: CREATE A BUDGET

You can't shop on a budget if you don't have a budget. Sit down with your bills, checkbook and paystubs. Figure out how much you have coming in, how much you have going out, and how much money you can allot toward shopping."

In addition to creating a budget for money, give yourself a budget of time that includes a lot of it. When you're in a rush or hurried to buy an item, you'll likely overspend.

SECOND TIP? STICK TO IT!

Don't be so quick to make the purchase. If you are shopping offline in a store, check the website first before purchasing, because sometimes they offer special sales and discounts on the Web that can help save you money."

Maintaining a budget is one of the best ways to not overspend and to avoid debt. For one month, track every penny you spend. It may be a lot of work, but it will give you a really good idea of what you are spending your money on.

BE CREATIVE

Let price tags be your guide. If you're looking for a specific item, keep an open mind.Also be creative with the time of year in which you shop, and look for clearance holiday items year 'round. "It cuts down on stress during the holidays, spaces out the spending, and gives you more time to find the best budget-friendly gift for everyone on your list."

NEED VS WANT

The key to sticking with your budget is knowing a nice-to-have versus a need-to-have. Before you buy anything, ask yourself if you really need it. A bargain, no matter how cheap, is no bargain if it's just going to sit in a closet."