When you're on a tight budget, it's important to buy versatile items that will go the distance in your wardrobe and take you from day to night and beyond. Inspired by this reality, and by a spread titled "One Dress, Three Ways" in the August 2008 issue of InStyle (pp. 108-109), I decided to see how I could stretch one simple PLEATED SHIFT (which I purchased for $14 at Target!) in three different directions. Here are the results.

1. Sweet Charm Simple and chic for a day of shopping and lunch with friends. SHOES Dark brown faux-leather gladiator flats, Forever 21, $19. PURSE Blue Patent Leather, Sigred Olsen. BELT Brown faux-leather, Forever 21, $13.50. BRACELETS (featured in all three looks) Gilded rubber bangles, Urban Outfitters, $5


2. Downtown Diva An edgy look for work or girl's night out. SHOES Black leather peep-toe Mary Janes, Aerosoles, $19.99. JACKET, Zippered biker jacket, Bebe, $39. LEGGINGS Twelve by Twelve, $18.


3. All Glammed Up Dolled up for dinner and dancing. SHOES Metallic leather slingback heels, Nine West via Marshalls, $28.99. NECKLACE Vintage faux pearls, Rummage sale, $1. PURSE Quilted Eggshell Leather Clutch, BCBG Max Azria via Marshalls, $80. BRACELET Black leather & gold cuff, Givenchy via Filene's Basement. BELT Thin black suede belt, Forever 21. BLACK TIGHTS.