It's back-to-school, which puts a drainage on your, (and / or your 'rents), wallet. Time to pick up a fall wardrobe; kind of like an "out with the old, in with the new" scenario. Or...is it? In honor of spending sprees for the holiday season peeking around the corner, we've compiled a list of tactics to save the trees, (or at least your own greenery). Read on, fellow overspending sisters...

     It's hard not to look like the herd when there's close to no choices of clothing stores. In most average-sized cities, there's the mall and a couple of department stores, giving you a higher chance of having an ungenetic twin or six at school. Don't fret just yet -- we're here to guide you to a new, more unique, wardrobe this fall to have the crews purring out, "Where'd you get that?"

the case scenario: A pal has a shirt you've just been dying to own. Ever since the day she purchased it full over to the first time she wore it, you have imagined your figure gracing it's sleeves. What to do? Organize a "Sister Swap Search" with a group of girl friends. Have them bring anything and everything that they're just tired of making closet space for, whether it be shoes or shirts or accessories. Display all the items in your living area, and make it a full on rummage swap!

be careful: Make sure the clothes brought to the swap are in decent condition; try to get friends of the same size or close to it for best results; don't trip running to get that shirt from your pal.

the case scenario: You don't have to be Martha Stewart or Picasso to put together a masterpiece; all you have to do is have a little defiance and a lot of creativity. Sick of the basic black tee? Spruce it up -- cut the sleeves off to create a muscle tee. From there, add the works; we're talkin' rhinestones at the rim or feathers hanging off the middle...the possibilities are literally endless! If you're feeling particularly artsy, spell out your name or a swank word, (diva, rockstar, etc.), in beads or, again, rhinestones. Next thing you know, you're Betsey Johnson.

be careful: Buy fabric glue...ordinary school glue will not last; wash backwards and on the gentle cycle or by hand; look up college fashion institutes.

the case scenario: Sites like eBay are great places to find brand new clothing, shoes, and accessories at ten to ninety percent off the original price. It's like finding a new pair of Manolo Blahniks for a low cost at a garage sale! This is an idea for someone who is searching for individuality, as well. This way, you'll find stylish sneaks or cutesy clothes that are not sold at your local mall. Take that, Steve Madden!

be careful: Sign up for auction sites; make sure to read full descriptions of items; look up Manolo Blahnik shoes selections on auction.

the case scenario: You've got a couple of basics, but they're a little bit...blah? If you don't want to hack and stack it to death, (see #2 if you're feeling daring), then make it versatile! For instance, you have a white baby tee and pair of basic blue jeans. Get a decorative tank top, (spaghetti straps suggested), and place it over the white shirt. For the jeans, get a long handkerchief that goes with your tank top, tie it through your belt loops, and ta-da! Instant modification, and it didn't cost you a cent, (unless you had to purchase one of the above -- we always recommend making do with what you've got)! Creating new looks with old pieces makes complete use of that creative right brain activity.

be careful: Warm weather might not comply correctly with layers; don't let the left brain talk you out of an ingenious concept.

     Imagine the amount of money you'll be saving in the end by becoming a thrifty clotheshorse -- payment that can be used for other just-as-vital things like your education, car payments, holidays and of course, more clothes. You -- and your bank account -- will thank us later. Have fun!