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It seems that financial predictions for the second quarter aren’t looking too good for our Kate Spade pocketbooks. A shortage of cotton, a rise in the cost of labor and manufacturing, an export ban in India, and a fast growing clothing retail market in Asia and India are causing the price of cotton to rise up to 10% more this spring. Designers in the past had merely turned to synthetics as a low-cost alternative when cotton prices rose, but now with the high demand for synthetic fibers and cost of rubber and oil, prices will increase up to 50%. So that means, those $70 cotton jeans? Now $77. That $50 polyester top? Now $75.

So what’s a fashionable girl to do? Because let’s be honest, being on a budget is no excuse for not looking fabulous. Throw a clothing swap. Have everyone bring clothing in good condition that they no longer want or wear, make some popcorn, turn on some music, and let the borrowing begin! That top that makes your face look pasty could look absolutely fantastic on your friend. Even if you are all different sizes, you can still swap accessories and jewelry to add something new to your look. Check out your local thrift store. You can find some real gems at the Salvation Army or your local consignment store if you live in a small town, some even sell clothing by the pound. But if you live in a big city you know how picked over thrift can be, so check out Ebay or Smashion. And don’t forget, you can also sell your own clothes online to make a little extra shopping money!

Make a list. If you are one of those girls that every time she drops by the mall picks up a little $5 hand lotion, a few $3 bangles, and a $10 tee, put a stop to it right now! All of those little purchases can add up. Instead, clean out your closet and get to know what you really need this season. Are you missing a pair of basic black pumps? Need a new maxi-skirt to update your look? Is your favorite denim jacket on it’s last legs? Write it down, and only buy what’s on your list. Get to know your tailor. It’s amazing what a tailor can do. Do you have any clothing that you would love if it just wasn’t too small, too big, too long….? Take it to your tailor and for a few bucks you can have a bunch of new clothes that are perfectly for you. Go independent.

My personal favorite, consider buying from an independent designer as opposed to fast fashion brands such as Forever 21 or H&M. Not only will you be getting a unique piece, but because they don’t have the same over-head as mass market brands they are cheaper. A few great sites are Etsy, Moxsie, and Indie Designer Labels.