´óÏó´«Ã½

Making the most of your clothes for your money doesn't need to be a daunting task.

Don't let your finances leave you in a jumble, you can still find affordable, fashionable, clothing during these hard times and a wardrobe disaster can be avoided with just a few simple pointers.Ìý

"Buy the best you can afford," said Janette Liggins, fashion advisor at John Lewis, Norwich, but be warned - opting for cheaper clothing could end up being a costly mistake.

"Cheaper clothing can often start to lose its colour and shape in only a short amount of time," said Janette.

Cost-effective in the long run

Budgeting for a more expensive pair of jeans or immaculate dress can often be more cost-effective in the long run, while ensuring the end result is more pleasing on the eye.

"Buy a few classic pieces which are timeless and will last season after season. These can be updated each season with additional accessories such as jewellery, bags, belts, shoes, hats and scarves," said Janette.

"Scarves are brilliant - you can pick up scarves of all kinds of prices and shapes, and there are so many different ways to tie them."

Fashion advisor

To help you spend your money more wisely a fashion advisor can be found in many of the large department stores. They can instantly asses what is needed to make you look fabulous, by taking into account factors such as body shape and lifestyle.Ìý

Janette Liggins

"A good fashion adviser will create a capsule wardrobe, however big or small, that will work and work and work," said Janette.

But beware of the impulse buying, it's a bad habit best avoided as it can often lead to people have to face the consequences of buying clothes of the wrong size, shape or colour to complement the rest of their wardrobe.Ìý

Accessorise darling

Investing in a range of key accessories is also a way of creating a new look to your wardrobe, without spending a fortune.

A statement piece of jewellery, such as a necklace, can make a massive difference to an appearance and can draw an instant 'wow' factor.

Although some people would cringe at the thought, charity shops and jumble sales can hold the key to a clothing bargain.ÌýCareful scouting can often unearth designer labels and vintage pieces with a price tag that doesn't break the bank.

A clothe swapping party can also bring you a fresh new look for the oncoming season.

"The most rewarding method is to meet with a group of friends with two or three different items they wish to swap and make it an occasion – pour out the wine or have a fun time over a cup of coffee," said Janette.

When buying your clothes it's recommended that you look at the wash care labels. They will tell the correct way of keeping your garments in mint condition and whether you'll be heading for some expensive dry cleaning bills in months to come.

But the best piece of advice Janette can give is to look after those garments.

"Hang, store and wash carefully and they will last and look good for much longer," said Janette.