HOW TO STOCK YOUR FALL WARDROBE, FRUGALLY

Best Overall Spot For Men & Women:  DNA Clothing

This boutique, budget-friendly store with locations in Hollywood and Venice is one of our favorite go-to places for staple wardrobe items. From jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, dresses, camisoles to sunglasses and jewelry items, you'll make great finds for both men and women, all at super reasonable prices. Plus, the stores are small enough that the selection isn’t overwhelming, just full of prime picks! See website for multiple locations.  www.dnaclothing.com

Best Spot For Jeans:  That Jean Shop

One of the most expensive (and important) items in any wardrobe, for both gals and guys, is… the jean. Denim is always in high demand and difficult to find a deal on. But we did it!  Name any high-end designer from Citizens for Humanity, Hudson, True Religion, to J Brand and more, you’ll usually find it here for about half the retail price. And, fear not, these jeans aren’t pre-used, just an inside track on styles from seasons past. The only caveat is the store is cash only, so be sure to hit up the ATM on your way. 5658 West 3rst St., Los Angeles, CA 90036, 310-975-46

           Photo via That Jean Shop

Best Spot For a Cute Dress:  Chantell on Melrose

For the women out there... you just got word about a dinner or some type of event that  requires something you don’t have in your closet. You’re in need of a chic outfit, but don’t want to drop a lot of dough. Well, this is your spot. With all the retail stores littering Melrose it’s hard to know which ones are worthwhile, but Chantell is a small boutique with a limited selection of well-made (not cheap looking!) chic dresses and clothing at incredibly low prices. You can literally get in and out in 5, with a good find under $30.  7309 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036, 323-934-0204

Best Spot to Buy a Hat: Hollywood Hatters

Don’t ever disregard the need for a great hat. If you’ve always thought you weren’t a hat person, you probably haven’t found the right one. It’s the perfect way to accessorize any outfit and keep you warm in LA’s "chilly", 60-degree weather. The hats here fit every mood and style from floppy to fitted to fedoras, starting at $24.95 and up to $69.95 for the big spenders. It’s a great deal compared to most retail stores, which will typically run you around $100 and upwards. 6905 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038 (323) 525-1912  www.hollywoodhatters.com       

                                                                      Photo via Hollywood Hatters

Best Place For a Scarf: American Apparel Warehouse Outlet

What’s the most versatile scarf for your fall wardrobe? The circle scarf! Where do you get it? The American Apparel Outlet! The circle scarf doubles as a sweater, skirt, or headpiece adding additional pieces to your wardrobe that you didn’t even know you needed. You can squeeze twelve looks out of one. AA also has a great selection of vintage silk scarves ranging from $15 to $30 depending on the style and material. Plus, the outlet stores will have fabric selections no longer available in retail stores. Two locations bookend the city, Venice Boardwalk and downtown at the Warehouse. See website for multiple addresses.  www.americanapparel.net

Best Spot For Boots:  Nordstrom Rack

Boots are a fall favorite and winter must-have, but always seem to drain your bank account. We know how hard it is to find affordable boots that don’t look cheap, which is why we want to remind you about Nordstrom Rack. You may have to do a little sifting, but you’ll still find top brands at low prices. You can expect to pay anywhere between $50 to $150 for designer names that are usually double that price. Keep checking back regularly as the stock changes daily for both men’s and women’s brands. 100 North La Cienega Blvd., LA, CA 9048 (323) 602-0282  

www.shop.nordstrom.com/c/nordstrom-rack

Article by toi contributer, Vicki Higgins