Trends come and go quicker than subway cars, and many times that must-have look can leave you with maxed-out credit cards. I say: “Find fashion you love and do it yourself!” Instead of breaking the bank for the trend du jour, grab some simple supplies and re-create it for less. You’ll be amazed at what you can do with a few buttons, some fabric paint, or a piece of ribbon.

My love for DIY style started at a young age with an obsession for fashion magazines. Torn-out pages covered my walls and ceiling, and a collection of issues was stacked high in my closet. I kept a box labeled “inspiration” in my bedroom filled with tear sheets of the designer looks I adored and dreamed of imitating. High fashion wasn’t something I could always afford, much less find, in Midwestern department stores, so I began to shop at thrift stores, sew, and embellish my own versions of the chic pieces I coveted. My first “custom creations” weren’t always perfect: dresses from sewing classes were often a little lopsided; clothes I “borrowed” from my mom’s wardrobe were too big; and my tie-dye/puffy paint phase was a little too, well, bright. Over the years, through trial and error, I learned a few clever tricks and techniques to make clothes and accessories that I loved—and that got me many compliments. I was ecstatic over the response I received when I confessed that I made it myself!

My fascination with fashion and magazines eventually turned into a career. Living in New York and working at InStyle magazine, I am surrounded by the same type of breathtaking designs I idolized as a youngster. The only thing that hasn’t changed is that many of these fashions are still out of my price range. To remedy that, I still turn to my trusty glue gun, needle and thread, and jewelry pliers to re-create—in an affordable way—some of the gorgeous styles I see in the magazines and on the runway.

I always include DIY pieces in my outfits, and it is gratifying when coworkers take notice. InStyle asked me to do a “Personalize Your Clothing” story in one issue, and the reaction was overwhelming. From there, my website, I Spy DIY (ispy-diy.com), and a monthly do-it-yourself fashion column in the magazine were born. Being able to connect with others who share my passion for budget-friendly fashion has been absolutely amazing. Now, when I am stopped on the street or at a party, and am asked about a piece I made, I love sharing how you don’t have to spend a fortune, but can easily do it yourself.

I Spy DIY Style is a go- to guide for girls who want to “get the look” on a budget. I’ve scoured the fashion landscape to bring you the most stylish DIY ideas. Red carpet celebs, designer runway looks, and classic iconic styles are my inspiration. I’ve taken my favorite clothing and accessory trends and turned each into a simple, step-by-step, do-it-yourself project. If you are looking to give clothing in your wardrobe new life, I have also included easy projects to refashion basics, such as a tank top, black flats, and a button-down shirt (tank top, black flats, button-down shirt). Top designers, including Erin Fetherston, Rebecca Minkoff, and Rachel Roy, contribute ideas on how to put a personal spin on what you wear; InStyle Fashion Directors share tips on making style your own; and fashion and DIY bloggers model each project and spill some of their best-kept secrets. And because this is all about upping your individual style, remember that the projects in the book can be customized in endless ways. Have fun and feel free to improvise. Once you get the techniques down, I have no doubt you’ll be spotting and creating your own DIY style in no time!