The past few years have seen an explosion of fashion blogs, both from top industry sources and stylish individuals around the globe. The proliferation has made fashion even more fun, with more voices doling out new perspectives on style and daily wardrobe inspiration. While the blogs run the gamut from budget-busting to budget-friendly, the takeaway is that the best approach is to have a wardrobe that combines splurges with savings - you just need to shop smart to get the best of both.

The first step to creating a fashion-forward wardrobe is to do some editing. Go through each item in your closet and decide if it's something you want to keep. If you aren't sure, put it to the test. Can you use it to emulate a look that you love? Can you wear it in different ways? Of course, you should also consider whether the garment has a flattering fit and is in good condition.

(ARA) - As fall arrives, our world changes to a place decorated with vibrant colors and filled with the tastes and abundance of the harvest. And as the season changes, it's only natural that we crave some changes of our own. Whether you want to update your wardrobe with some new looks for the cooler weather, or warm up your home with some stylish new decor, it's good to know that you can make changes without breaking the bank.

"Fall is such an exciting season for style," says Susan Atchison, manager of trend development for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. "We're saying farewell to the breezy lightness of summer and looking forward to a rich and cozy feel in the season that takes kids back to school and gets us looking toward the excitement of the holidays. In fall, inspiration is literally all around you and it's a great time to get inspired to do some projects that will give you a look that is perfectly suited to the season."

(ARA) - The changing weather shouldn't mean packing up your seasonal clothes or breaking the bank by shopping for completely new outfits you will wear for only a few months. Alison Deyette, nationally recognized lifestyle and personal style expert, explains how you can look and feel great by investing in classic items that will complement any wardrobe regardless of season, occasion and budget.

"Timeless, all-weather clothing and footwear are a must for everyone," says Deyette. "Building a simple, core collection of closet staples, like a solid-colored pencil skirt, a tailored trench, black or neutral dress pants, a great pair of dark denim jeans and a tailored white blouse, offer versatility and flexibility throughout warm and cool weather months."

The wardrobe update is as common a fall occurrence as leaves changing color, and perhaps the most-changed wardrobe staples are shoes. But instead of heading out to buy new footwear based on what's going to keep you cozy in the coming months, pre-edit your shopping bags by exploring which of the season's trends will suit you. Once you're armed with an idea of the looks you want, you'll be ahead of the curve when you start shopping.

Short cuts: They've been around for the past couple of seasons, but new variations on the bootie are keeping the look fresh and trend-worthy. One of the best features about booties is that they are available in such wide variety that you can find versions that are appropriate for everything from a night out to the office. Look for peep-toes for a bolder look or seek out a more classically styled Cole Haan shoes that will be chic and office appropriate at once.