Because of circumstances beyond the comprehension of most of us, the economy is still weak and the business climate remains uncertain if not downright scary. This is bad news. But as a result, companies need to move product and services rapidly to stay afloat, and so nearly everything appears to be on sale. This is good news.

But we might be unemployed next month. This is bad news.

So how should we happily go about indulging our shopping impulses in an unprecedented buyer’s market without ending up with a pile of depreciating stock and a possible income interruption? We’ve got answers. Or at least a few suggestions for dos and don’ts when you’re on a budget and everything is on sale.

DO keep your receipt. You’re not running for political office. It’s OK to flip-flop on a dress.

DO proceed with caution. I’ve said this before, and it bears repeating (and it’s also suitable for tattooing): It’s not a bargain if you don’t need it.

DO look at higher-priced stores than you typically would shop. Now that things are discounted across the board, take advantage. If you shop only Dillard’s, try Neiman Marcus. If you are a Wal-Mart shopper, take a trip to Macy’s. And if you never go into that cute little shop on the corner because you think you can’t afford whatever, go now. It’s a great time to upgrade. Why buy more of the same when you can get better design and better quality. The recession won’t last; the new outfit will be suitable for years to come.

DO go to thrift stores for withdrawals and deposits. If you’re buying more new things, you should be shedding dead weight in your closet. You may be surprised by the new merchandise available. More companies are donating what they can’t sell to charitable shops. And more people donated clothes in December because of end-of-year tax prep.

DON’T forget accessories. Belts, clutches and quality costume jewelry can be the most expensive part of an outfit. Those items can also make or break an outfit. Now’s the time to invest in some classic or funky trinkets that will add to your wardrobe. It’s amazing what a piece of statement jewelry can do to transform a simple black sheath or pant suit into cocktail attire.

DON’T ever convince yourself to buy something no matter how discounted it may be. If you’re paying 80 percent off retail for something you don’t love, you are paying too much.

DON’T buy anything that doesn’t fit. I’m not talking about the length of a hem, but body fit. If it’s a size too big or small and you think. “maybe I can get away with it,” stop, step away from the clothes rack and walk away.

DO try everything on. Sometimes you won’t notice a button is missing, the crazy neckline, the sticky zipper or the stain on the front until it’s on your body and you’re in a mirror. Plus, if you’re too lazy to try it on, you’re probably buying in haste.

DON’T forget underwear. There’s a new backless bra on my shopping list. Now’s the time to invest in some of those high-end, high impact foundation garments that can cost a small fortune but can make the rest of your clothes look 20 percent better instantly. We’ve all seen the unfortunate droop that can ruin a fantastic ensemble.

DON’T forget your budget. If you have $100 to spend and you buy $250 worth of stuff because it is a savings of $650 off the normal retail price, you are still $150 in the hole. Stores are promoting how much you saved and even print it with glee on receipts, but you should focus on how much you can afford to spend. That’s how we got into this economic mess to begin with.

DO call a timeout. If you feel the adrenaline of the shopper’s rush washing away your good sense, take a breath. It happens. It’s like the endorphine rush that people who run must experience. You feel more powerful, and your senses are piqued. You feel lucky because everything you touch is gold, and it’s cheap and it’s all yours, yours, yours. OK, stop. Just like any drug, this will lead to regret and bad decisions. Take everything to the nearest counter and ask them to place the items on hold for an hour. If they can’t or won’t put sale or clearance items on hold, just tell them you have to use the bathroom. Now take a walk. Take at least 10 minutes, or the full hour if you can and then go back to shopping with fresh eyes. Just because it’s a bargain, doesn’t make it worthwhile.