Shopping Q & A Can you give me some ideas for a special gift for Mother's Day?

The gifts your mother will most appreciate aren't necessarily of a wallet-busting order. In fact, the best presents can be had for little or no money. Check them out. . .

. A homemade coupon book is a great way to offer Mom your help with the housework. Make coupons out of construction paper that Mom can trade in for your services (Iaundry duty, dishwashing, baby-sitting, cooking).

. Put together a scrapbook with pictures of your entire family.

Photos and mementos from your mom's childhood will make this keepsake even better.

. When was the last time your mother had the chance to listen to a tape of music by all the artists she absolutely loves? Record her favorite songs and design a "Mom's Top Tunes" cassette box.

. If your mom is friendly with a friend's mom, give a mother/daughter brunch. Keep it simple with mellow music, homemade muffins, Danish, coffee, and tea. Spending a few hours talking and laughing together with friends just may be the greatest gift of all.

Pretty soon I'm going to be shopping for a swimsuit. What styles and colors are "in" this summer? EMILY G., LANOKA HARBOR, NJ

There are a variety of couture-inspired styles to choose from this summer. if you're in a feminine mood, select a swimsuit with delicate lingerie-like effects or demure touches of chiffon. But if you're the bold beach-baby type, go for the gold with a tinkling coin-trimmed tank. The sexy cutout suit's best for the serious swimmer who likes a back with a flash. And for the sophisticate, there's the screen-siren suit. It's got Hollywood glamour all sewn up with a halter-bra top and a high-waisted, boy-cut bottom. Catch the newest wave in color by mixing two shocking shades together. The result: a double dose of daring that'll definitely get you noticed. One last tip for water babies: Hooded jackets and sarongs are fashionably hot, so ditch your oversize T-shirts.

I just joined a gym. Any suggestions on workout clothes that will go a long way on a small budget? AMY B., KENOSHA, WL

When it comes to spending on sports clothes, it's best to stick with the basics. Search stores for a few solid pieces with simple silhouettes that can be mixed and matched. The newest shapes offering optimal comfort and flexibility: Capri pants, unitards, bodysuits, and bike shorts. To liven up these primary pieces, put on a bright top or trunks. And don't let your favorite old sweatshirt go to waste-used as a coverup, that gray wear-with all will keep you warm and will look totally cool. Even though you can put together a great workout wardrobe on a smail budget, don't skimp on athletic footwear. Whether you're into aerobic s classes or running, feet take a beating. Buy a crosstraining shoe (Avia has a good selection) for support.

Source: Seventeen Magazine