I love the better things in life, but lets face it…I also love to pay my bills. That’s why I always try to find alternatives to my favorite things before shelling out the big bucks. Read on for a few secrets of a budget fashionista:

1) Makeup

My BFF could buy out Sephora, but for me, my makeup counter is at CVS. HOWEVER, I do go to the mall and check out the pretty colors at the MAC counter and see what’s new and hot in makeup trends. Chances are, if you study hard you can find similar goods at your local pharmacy for a fraction of the price. One of my favorites is Revlon nail polish…dries fast and always looks great! I loved the sexy glam/goth look of Chanel’s “Vamp,” so instead of paying Chanel bucks, I spent under $5 on Revlon’s “Vixen.”

“Vixen” by Revlon, $4.59

2) Party Dresses

Ok, so it’s no secret that Target has great deals on trendy stuff, blah blah blah…personally, I’m over it. Their clothes never hold up, their shoes are always uncomfortable and their purses and jewelry aren’t anything to get excited about. But I absolutely love their dresses by Isaac Mizrahi…I bought a pink party dress for $39.99 for my bridal shower this summer and everyone raved about it. Check out Isaac Mizrahi’s dresses for affordable holiday fashion:

Dolce and Gabanna Strapless Taffeta Dress, $835

Isaac Mizrahi Strapless Dress, Milan Purple, $39.99

3) Shoes

Now, they aren’t exactly Payless-priced, but Antonio Melani shoes from Dillard’s are the next best thing. If you crave designer style and quality, without paying the high price tags, check them out. This line always has the hottest styles at a fraction of the designer prices:

Marc Jacobs Peep Toe Pump, $335.00

Antonio Melani “Shawna” Pump, $79.00

What are your favorite budget fashionista tips?