You do not have to spend a lot of money on your summer wardrobe. Here are 5 tips you can follow.

#1 Pare down your list

Easy, simple, effortless — these are the buzzwords for summer. You should look at summer dressing in this way, too.

You do not really need a lot of clothes — not if you mix and match. Draw up a list of must-haves, planning around having enough pieces to mix and match to make about a dozen outfits.

Make sure that you include some tank tops, a couple of skirts, a maxi dress, a pretty dress with bold prints, capris, shorts — and you are good to go.

#2 Look at the clothes that your friends have

Are you downsizing your closet? Think about offering some of the items to your friends. Then find out if there are pieces from THEIR wardrobe that they do not need anymore. Maybe you can find some interesting summer items that you can use.

You can also organize a clothes swap with some of your closest friends. It will be a lot of fun trying on each other’s clothes and taking home new pieces to enjoy for the summer.

#3 Dress up your clothes with accessories

Adding fun and inexpensive accessories to last summer’s clothes can add fun, color, and a new look to your wardrobe. Make use of belts, bracelets, and necklaces for style. Your outfit will look fresh, stylish, and unique. Use colorful and differently patterned scarves and switch up your outfits.

#4 Use your money wisely

Make your money go far. Look out for sales. If you find a piece that you like, and you know that it is going to be marked down in a few days, wait for it to go on sale. Visit the clearance section for good deals.

If you want plain tees and tank tops to use under other pieces for a nifty layering effect, go generic. Save your money for branded pieces that you show off.

If you simply have to buy a particular designer piece, look it up at eBay for a more affordable price.

#5 Go shopping for summer clothes in winter

Shopping out of season guarantees you a lot of savings. It may feel odd to buy a swimsuit in the middle of freezing weather, but it does not really matter if you are going home with a lot of cash left over.