FASHION ON A BUDGET

Remember when the words "bargain" and "hunt" couldn't be uttered independently in relation to fashion? Securing a steal of a deal meant searching for the big red sale signs, shopping a season behind the current one and heading straight to the darkest, gloomiest corners of your favorite stores, otherwise known as the clearance section.

Now stores such as H&M and Forever 21 put brand new items right under your nose with prices so low they garner doubletakes. And diffused designer lines have added a significant element of cool to big box stores such as Target and Kohl's.

It's a retail revolution. The fashion bargain has officially detached itself from the hunt. Chic for cheap now exists 24/7. For those still new to the concept, take a look at the breakdown we've compiled on the topic with the help of two fashion budget bloggers: Kathryn Finney (budgetfashionista.com) and Dianna Baros (thebudgetbabe.com).

THE PRICE OF FASHION

Depending on who you ask, budget fashion can translate to several different price points. Dianna Baros, also known as The Budget Babe, defines it as anything falling under the triple digits. "Staples will certainly go over, but I usually cap it off around $100," she said. Keep in mind this is the high point. Accessory items such as belts, necklaces and hats can start as low as $5. Stumble upon a sale at a budget retailer and you're talking pocket change.

INEXPENSIVE VS. CHEAP

A bargain tends to lose its luster when you realize your purchase won't survive a second wear. Rather than swear off budget retailers for good, train your eye to distinguish the quality pieces from the cheap stuff. It all comes down to a garment's insides. Look for stitching and lining. If threading appears loose and the lining looks flimsy, think twice. Hardware, such as buttons and zippers will determine the lifetime of a garment. Be sure both are sturdy and function easily. Lastly, pay attention to fabrics. Baros looks for natural fibers such as wool and cotton and recommends following cleaning directions to a 'T' to ensure more mileage.

EVERYONE LOVES A BARGAIN

Think of budget fashion like MySpace; at first it seems silly to partake in it because you can't help but make the teenybopper association, but once you get going you dive completely in. According to Budget Fashionista Kathryn Finney, the sooner you rid yourself of preconceived notions, the better. "Forever 21 really is a good place for all ages, particularly for accessories," Finney said. "And, if you can't afford a $300 Diane von Furstenberg dress, you can get a version inspired by it at Forever 21 for $20."

THE REAL THING

If the term "designer-inspired" leaves a bad, knock-off taste in your mouth, budget fashion has a remedy: diffused designer lines. Target's Go International program lasts for 60 to 90 days at a time and has launched lines from Proenza Schouler, Alice Temperley and Libertine. "I see people wearing head-to-toe Target at Fashion Week and no one knows," Finney said.

H&M has partnered with coveted designers such as Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney and, most recently, Roberto Cavalli. Even Kohl's Department Stores has jumped on the bandwagon with Vera Wang's Simply Vera line of sophisticated, well-constructed garments.

MAKE IT YOURS

With prices this low, the masses swarm the stores. To avoid seeing your mirror image all over town, make your look distinct and avoid wearing a head-to-toe look from one source. "Never dress like the mannequins," Finney advised. "Add a dash of personality with accessories not from the store."

Baros recommends clutch handbags, gloves and charming hats to make a look your own. Adding touches of vintage, she says, is the number one way to ensure you separate yourself from would-be look-alikes. You can find fabulous accessories, as well as intricate hardware (buttons, zippers, etc.), on Web sites such as eBay.com and Etsy.com. Thrift stores can turn up treasures, too.

START ME UP

If you want to get to know budget fashion but simply don't know where to start, Baros says there's no better place than H&M. In the past two months, the authority in fast fashion (stores that put runway-inspired clothes on racks in record times) has opened two stores in Las Vegas. The first at Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort caters to teens with a slew of hoodies and basics. The second location finds its 27,000-square-foot home at Town Square and features clothes for women, men, children and lingerie.

The best item to seek out: A trendy piece, such as a retro dress or animal-print tunic. Think of budget fashion as a means to explore your style identity. "I have more faith in my own taste than I do in a brand or designer ... You can cultivate your style with these places," said Baros.

Contact fashion reporter Xazmin Garza at xgarza@reviewjournal.com or (702) 383-0477.