Budget Shopping: Twin Cities

Len Druskin is the queen of the Galleria, the place for high-design dresses, shoes, T-shirts, menswear and more. And the outlet spot in Southdale, with its non-descript entrance, is Soutdale's best-kept secret. The store is overflowing with designer dresses and much more for about 80 percent off the original price.

If you're looking for something totally boutique, unique and affordable, Cliche is the spot. The little Uptown shop carries a wide assortment of men and women's wear and accessories from local designers, as well as chic and dude wear from hip boutique designers from all over the world. You'll look like a true original in a dress or T-shirt from the more than 20 designers selling their fashion-forward wares at this trendy Uptown shop.

This little South Minneapolis gift store Corazon offers unique gifts, cards, clothes and more for the hard-to-please. And for the frugally-minded, there's always a corner dedicated to sale items, where you can get boutique goods--like cardigans, candle holders, table toppers and more--for as much as 60 percent off the original price.

More than 50 local designers and crafters showcase their wonderful and whimsical wares here. From one-of-a-kind purses, jewelry, hats, and scarves to onesies, bibs, organic soaps and more, this sweet spot has everything your craft-loving, locavore heart desires. Everything here is well-priced, and all of the proceeds go back into the community.

One of the best-kept secrets in town (until now) is that the basement of the downtown Salvation Army is also where Target sends all of its never-worn samples. And there are tons of them: clothes, handbags, housewares, jackets, bedding, seasonal merchandise and more are all at about 75 percent off what you?d even pay at Target. It's true: You can find brand-new skirts, shirts, toys and more for under five bucks apiece.