Chic can be cheap!

Whether you are a mother on-the-go, a college student, or still looking for a job- there are looks for you that are both fashionable and affordable. There is a stigma attached to lower-end department stores nowadays, and always- but trust me, those clothes are being made in the same fashion as the clothes you'd find in Saks or Bloomingdales! No one will be able to guess whether your jeans are $28 or $128 dollars. Follow my expert tips on how to spot well made clothing in department stores.

These jeans are 250 dollars. These jeans are just under $20. Hint: just because it's designer, doesn't mean it's going to be made better, or even fit better- for that matter!

Also, if you're average sized, or even plus-sized- most likely it is incredibly difficult to shop in a higher-end store. Believe me, I am one of the aforementioned - and shopping in these type stores is like pulling teeth.

Anyway- back to my secret finds! My personal favorite is Kohl's!

If you are strapped for money and need an outfit ASAP- Ladies, go for the dresses! You can purchase an entire outfit for 37 dollars- and all you will need to further customize this look will be any spare jewelry in your own house. Whether it be your favorite necklace, a few bangle bracelets, or a well placed bag!

Did you know that a well-fitted dress pant can take off 10 pounds of extra odds and ends! Trust me, this past thanksgiving dress pants were my friend! ; )

Many women make the mistake of buying a size too big, thinking it will cover up any bulges they have under the garment. However, this does quite the opposite- instead, this creates the illusion of having more bulges, and adds on 10 more pounds that you're trying to hide!

Dress pants are a very easy staple to find in any department store. These pants, for instance, are just under $20, with an appropriate shoe (such as a pointy-toed shoe) end up giving the appearance of a longer, and leaner leg. Remember, you don't need to wear heels to look chic. This is a common misconception among ladies of today. It's not necessary in today's fast-pace working-gal style.

Auf Wiedersehen, darlings- and remember, the most fashionable thing of all is saving money now for your outfits later!