With the sluggish economy, we’re all finding ways to cut back, especially with shopping for clothes. But my “fashion-gurus-in-training” don’t have to completely cut back on shopping. Here’s 10 ways that you can save money and look good, for less.

1. Swap Meets.  Look for swap meets in your town/city either online or in the phone book. And be sure to clean out your closet before you go…The only way you can get free clothing is to give yours away. Swap meets are usually messy, cluttered, and disorganized but you may score a designer piece if you take the time to sift through everything.

2. Vintage Stores.  Vintage has continued to be popular in fashion…Just like with swap meets, look for vintage stores in your town. Two advantages: you’ll save money and you’ll have something that no one else has.

3. Flea Markets.  Take the whole weekend to troll flea markets in or around your area. You’ll never know what you may find!

4. Salvation Army/Goodwill.  Second-hand clothing doesn’t have to be cringe-worthy. You will find lots of fashionable pieces for tons less than they were originally sold for. Just make sure that there’s no rips, holes or stains in the clothing and wash them well after you purchase them.

5. “DIY”.  Try sewing or knitting yourself some clothes. Try it on your own or take up some sewing classes. (Some are offered for free at hospitals, churches, and community colleges.) The cost of fabric and a pattern is less than buying a new outfit.

6. BORROW!  If your friend or relative is the same size as you, ask if you can borrow her clothes…And let her have some of your clothes as well. It’s only fair. Even try having a “clothing party” with your friends where you can meet once a week and swap clothes with each other.

7. 3 Words: T.J. Maxx, Ross, Marshall’s.  You can find a lot of designer digs at these stores for TONS less.

8. Ebay.  Online auctioneers are constantly selling trendy or designer pieces. Take the time to look…Most auctions start just over a few bucks and you may even have the option to buy right away.

9. The Clearance Rack.  Yes, it’s terribly messy and cluttered, but don’t be afraid to look through it. Stores like JCPenney have unbelievable clearances all year long where you can find shorts for as little as $1.75!

10. Discount Stores. Don’t be afraid to shop at stores like Wal-Mart or Target either. Target brings in a lot of world-known designers that have inexpensive fashion lines. You’ll get lots of looks and compliments, but it’ll be your little secret of how much you really spent on that outfit.