Body Central has the cutest stuff and it's SO cheap. I buy a lot of my work clothes there. The have jackets and satin blouses, things I can wear with bottoms I already have. They have a catalog too if you don't have a store near you.

When you want to stay on a budget but still look like you're wearing the looks of the moment, keep your wardrobe simple and classic and buy accessories. Hit up H&M, Target, and Forever 21 for great accessories that are not only trendy, but also won't cost you a lot. A basic outfit of classic straight leg jeans and a plain tee can easily be dressed up with a trendy scarf, hat, and sunglasses for under $20 at any of those locations. You can also experiment with make up and nail polish to add current trends to your look.

Also, hit up resale shops like Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads, or Plato's Closet. If you don't have a chain one in your town, check if there are any local ones and check them out. They all focus on carrying gently used items that people are wearing now and that are currently in style. It's a great place to score some deals.

Wait, Dear Normal! No need to spend a million dollars, oh dear!
You surely know that staying fashionable doesn't mean every single thing you own has to be new off the rack from your local mall store. Find fashion that works for you--wherever it may be that you find it! You'll be more comfortable and look trendy at the same time. That's how I want to introduce to you, if you haven't already become a fan of, (ta-da!) your favorite thrift store!! There you can buy so cheap, you won't mind donating back to them something that may not be working for you. And don't forget consignment shops where you can earn some money back on newer items you've decided to let go. Somewhere out there is some appreciative young thing looking for your discards!

Of course, you will want new items as well, who doesn't.
Surely you already go to your local liquidator to find whatever bargains they may have for you, right? All the major cities have them, you know, Loehmann's, Half of Half, Ross, and such and they're just waiting for you to arrive with your sharp eye and only a few dollars are needed, perhaps for a new purse or sunglasses or a swimsuit top. You can get on their mailing list, find out what days new merchandise arrives, get to know someone who works there.
I'm pretty , uh, on "outlet stores" which are not what they used to be. No longer overruns and returns, they now sell cheaper stuff that's made just for these "outlets" so it's kind of a scam really. But some of my best buys have been at the separate liquidation center of our local VF Factory Outlet.
Department stores run great sales on some of their loveliest stuff!!
So, it's just wherever you find it. Who knows, maybe a street vendor?
BUT ANYWAY
didn'tcha know shopping doesn't cost any money? That's because it's only when you BUY that you're spending money! What shopping does for you is
1. Gives you an education.
What's new?
What price do they want?
Does it look good on me?
etc.
2. Exposes you to fashion you can touch, see, feel and wear.
There's nothing like a little hands-on experience.
3. Gives you "the thrill of the hunt."
Oh, joyous day when you find a real bargain!! Now you can spend a little of your money!! The money you spend on your bargain, if it is a true bargain, will bring you some measure of happiness in this cold, cruel world.

For best results, shop alone! Your friends will get bored and want to go on to something else. Your Mom will want you to get things that she likes. Only you know what you like, what you want, and what you want to spend.
Hope this helps
Happy bargain hunting!

I would say build a basic wardrobe that you can touch up by buying or making new accessories each season.

I think skinny jeans are timeless (a skinny cut like Old Navy's Sweetheart Jean as opposed to the skinny jeans so tight they look painted on). Bootcut jeans (not too flared) will also look good no matter what. Stock up on tanks that can be worn alone or layered, and basic black tops, sweaters and blazers. For shoes, a pointy flat or black heel will always be in style.

Then, each season, pick up one or two new pieces, but you can focus on accessories or even just change your makeup and nail polish. This week I bought some pieces to make a trendy chain necklace for $2 at Goodwill.

Another tip: Secondhand stores like Plato's Closet that let you trade in old clothes for cash or store credit.