Buy: J.Crew pants instead of Elie Tahari, Tory Burch or DKNY

This is where the fact that J.Crew develops, manufacturers, and sells their own product comes into play. They use the same types of high quality fabrics and yarns and work with the same factories as higher priced designer lines, but they're not selling to another retailer or department store, which then marks them up and sells to the public. The result is top quality products that are typically priced 20-30% less that comparable ones. And when they have a sale – it's really a deal.

Be sure to check out: City-fit Super 120s Classic Trouser

Buy: Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy jeans instead of designer denim.

Girlawhirl has one Super Pal who has never purchased a pair of designer jeans! Her closet is stocked with the latest and greatest denim from the Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy and guess what? She looks great! And with all the different fits, size ranges and finishes, there's definitely a pair to fit any body type.

Be sure to check out: Banana Republic's Classic Stitched Straight-Leg Jean, with its super dark indigo wash. (606461)