Vow of Silence

"You bought what?"

If your best friend constantly complains about tough financial times before showing up with a trendy designer bag, then it can be tempting to call her out on her spending. But a judgment-riddled Are you kidding me? What did that cost? is decidedly the wrong thing to say, because "you're not in charge of her budget. She is," says Melton. Consider, too, that you may not know where her money's coming from, says Glass: "What if she's spending a gift from someone else?" So if you notice something brand-spanking new and expensive, then just say, Wow, cool boots or What a great new car. That said, if she asks you for help managing her money (or to borrow some of yours), then gently point out ways she can trim her costs.