In order to dress well on a small budget it is important to purchase classic styles, instead of very trendy fashion pieces. Choose a combination of colors that flatters you and purchase separates in these coordinating colors. Dressing monochromatically creates an elegant look. Be sure all of your blacks or navies match completely. Classic color combinations such as brown, robin's egg blue and cream or black, beige and cream create a luxe look.

Buying natural fibers is very important. Try to purchase classic styles on sale in better stores or consignment stores. Purchase cotton, silk, wool or cashmere pieces on sale or at consignment stores. Incredible buys can be found at consignment stores in upscale neighborhoods. Fit is of utmost importance. Always buy pieces for your wardrobe that fit well, if your sew you can alter pieces yourself. If you find a "must have" piece on sale it may be worth investing in alterations to create the perfect fit. Purchase the following items in your classic coordinated colors and mix and match:

Several pairs of flat front, boot leg cut trousers in tan, navy and black.
Boot leg cut trousers never go out of style and are flattering to all figure types.
A pair of boot leg cut jeans that have the waistband slightly below the waist.
A twinset in your complementing color, cashmere if at all possible. Check the consignment stores for this item.
A classic blouse in your complementing color, cream is a good choice here.
A skirt that is of a traditional A line cut.
Classic pumps with a medium heel.
One handbag, sometimes its good to splurge and buy a logo bag, be it Gucci or Coach. Logo bags go in and out of style but basically they upgrade your look and the quality is such that you can carry one for years.
White tee shirts of better quality cotton knit.
A man's tailored white button down shirt.
A denim jacket.
Gold earrings, try to buy 10 carat gold, if not 14 carat gold.
A gold chain link necklace.

The above items are classic pieces and can usually be purchased at better stores at end of the season sales. Mixing and matching the above pieces will create a classic, signature look, that will make you look put together and elegant.