Haven’t got a thing to wear?

It’s party season, people, and if you’re anything like we are, you’ve probably already worn all of your favorite outfits to the various social gatherings that inevitably occur this time of year.

Now, New Year’s Eve is looming and you want to wear something different. Something fresh and unique. Something with a WOW factor. But unless you managed to score gift cards to clothing stores for Christmas, you’re probably a little cash poor today.

Well, fear not fair fashionistas, because we have a budget-friendly solution.

First of all, pick a basic item to design your outfit around: a great pair of jeans, a cool black skirt, or even some glittery tights. Then host a spontaneous Swap Party. Invite your friends over and ask them to bring at least three stylish items they’re willing to lend out for an evening. In that “swap” pile, you are likely to find something that works well with your basic item.

Next, hit up your mom/aunt/sister for some cool costume jewelry to accessorize.

If your outfit still isn’t doing it for you, head out to some local thrift stores. Combing through jammed racks takes patience, and you have to be able to envision a piece away from all the clutter, but the effort can really pay off. We’ve come back from the hunt with cashmere sweaters, great wool coats, and sequined tank tops. A small budget can stretch a long way.

But if you strike out at the thrift store, don’t despair, because there’s always the consignment store. It costs more, but it will be better organized so you can find what you need without having a meltdown. We’ve have scored some major label jeans, dresses, shirts and even unworn shoes for a fraction of the retail cost.

Last, for a bit more cash and a lot more caché, try visiting a vintage clothing store. Add zing to your look with a cool hat, or a giant cocktail ring, or maybe a fifties Mad Men-esque sweater or dress.

It can take work to pull together the perfect outfit on a budget, but in the end, you’ll be an original—and the envy of all the girls who took the easy way out at the mall. Especially when they show up at the party wearing the same dress!