When you dig your winter wardrobe out of storage, you may notice some gaps you need to fill to fit in with this year's fashion trends. Even if you're on a budget, there are plenty of ways to fill out your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Focus on the essentials that you can mix and match with your existing clothes to put together great outfits to wear this winter.

A Cute Dress: Dress styles change every year, so don't be afraid to pick up a new dress or two for each winter, especially if you like patterned dresses. Because they don't need to last long, go ahead and shop at less expensive stores, like Forever 21, H&M, Sears, and your other favorites. Pair your dress with a thick pair of tights or leggings, some boots and a great fitted jacket to make the perfect winter outfit. You can even keep some of your favorite summer dresses out if their styles translate well to winter.

Fashion Boots: Every girl needs at least one pair of boots, although ideally you'll have more because these have been around for several years. Military-inspired boots are in this year, and riding boots and cowboy boots have also been a trend. And of course, you can't go wrong with a pair of

leather boots, which you can often find highly discounted at outlet malls. Also look for department store sales and coupons to make your boot purchase less expensive. If you don't have boots yet, consider getting gray ones because they're more versatile than black or brown.

Fitted Jackets: Your winter wardrobe is about layers, and you wouldn't want to toss on a shapeless jacket over an absolutely adorable outfit. Instead, look for stylish fitted jackets that look great on their own so you don't have to feel like you're dressing down if people see you outside. Look online to find a great selection and hunt down deals on women's coats. In addition, don't forget to check consignment shops, which will often carry styles from past years that will fit in perfectly this season.

Leggings and Tights: Once you have your dresses, boots and fitted jackets, you need tights or leggings to pull the whole outfit together and keep your legs warm. They can help you dress a look down with sweater-style tights or dress it up with a sleek pair of black leggings. You can pick these up relatively inexpensively, but don't skimp too much or you may find them getting runs or losing their elasticity after just a couple of wears.

Pumps: One last element of your winter wardrobe that you should never forget is a classic pair of pumps. Look for pumps with chunky heels, which are perfect for transitioning from day to night without having to bring an extra pair of shoes. Because these are so classic, you'll want to find a good pair that will last. Look for sales at local shoe stores, and check online for coupons and deals on holiday weekends.

Your wardrobe will have the most flexibility if you largely stick to items in neutral colors so you can mix and match them to make a wide range of outfits. Of course, it never hurts to have a couple of statement pieces in your favorite bright colors, too, so you can add a pop of color on what would otherwise be a dreary day. And, of course, make a list of what you need and stick to it so you can use every last penny on things you actually need!

Holly is an Indianapolis fashionista with an addiction to running. In her spare time, she enjoys blogging on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves.

Long before the bell ringers line up outside department stores, smart shoppers have already been planning for their Christmas shopping needs. Could you be one of them? With the right strategic plan, you could, realistically, get all of your shopping done before the Christmas carols hit the radio. By doing this, you will not only save stress, but also you will likely save money.

Shop all year

When you are out and about getting your groceries and toiletries, keep your eyes peeled for deals. You can be done with

Christmas shopping before school even starts in the fall if you pick up a few things throughout the year. Toys and other gifts regularly go on sale, and you will love having time in your schedule and money in your pocket when Christmas rolls around.

Using layaway

Layaway is becoming increasingly popular, as stores are dropping their fees for this service. Get the hot toy for your kids now, before it is gone, and stick it in layaway, where you can pay for it a little at a time until Christmas comes. You will be the star Christmas morning when your kids open the hottest gift, and you will be pleased knowing you didn�t waste a bunch of money by waiting until the prices soared right before Christmas.

Use sales

Sales are the best way to stock up on gifts to use at Christmas. Take advantage of some of the biggest shopping days of the year, like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These are the times when you can score big-ticket items, like a television or hot gaming system, for a discounted price. If you have kids on your list, learn when the major retailers have their big toy clearances, and mark those days on your calendar.

Go early

Going early helps you avoid stress and feel successful as you do your Christmas shopping. Going early doesn't mean one or two days; get out there well before the holidays are in full swing. This helps you find the biggest inventory and the smallest crowds. It can also mean heading to stores early on the days they are having sales. The earlier you shop, the more successful you will be at finding what you need this holiday season. In addition, you have all sorts of time during the season to spend time with your family and friends, without having to worry about whether or not you should be shopping.

Make a plan

As you are planning a shopping trip, make your plan strategic. Visit stores where you can get more than one gift, rather than traveling all over town to hit a bunch of individual stores. Head to the most important stores first on big shopping days like Black Friday, because you may run out of time to hit all of the stores on your list if the crowds and traffic are bad.

Go fast

One of the biggest downsides to shopping sales is the tendency to over-spend. When you see great deal after great deal, it is tempting to stuff your cart. This is not a good idea. To avoid this, make a list, check it twice and then stick with it. Get in the store, find your item and get out. This will make shopping less of a chore and will help you avoid spending more than you should for items you don�t really need.

If you do it early, Christmas shopping can go from dreaded chore to welcomed challenge. All you need is the right plan and the discipline to start before you feel the urgent need to shop. By doing this, you will take the stress out of this important yearly ritual, so that you can sit back and enjoy the magic of the holidays.