Didn't see anyone mention this, so thought I'd chip in my $.02.
Weight training is a very positive way to help boost your metabolism, gain muscle, lose fat, and (most importantly) feel good. If you do not have $$ for a gym membership, smaller dumbells are not too expensive -- and if even that is too much to afford, fill some old socks with rocks or sand, and purchase some larger canned goods and start with those. Look online (for free) for some great exercises. Be sure to include abs in your workout, but also know that you cannot "target" and area of your body to train -- just work on more muscle all over for best results.
Also, diet is VITAL -- this means no fast food, soda, junk like chips, etc. -- try to eat as much as poss. at home (things you make yourself so you can watch fat content, etc.). This is not expensive -- buy some whole grain rice, sliced turkey on whole grain bread w/ mustard instead of mayo, baked chicken is also one of my favs as it is cheap, yummy, can be made to taste different every time with different seasonings, and is SUPER EASY to make (40 or so min at 350 degrees in the oven and it's done!).
Finally, remember that genetics play a part in it all, too. If you are more likely to put fat on the belly, well, that's just where it's going to go until you get your overall body fat % down... I only say this as I have a genetic pre-dispositon to put fat in that very location!! Sucks. Also, I had an 11 lb. baby boy (23 1/2 inches!) -- a HUGE baby and I am a small (5'3") person. I was also 36 years old, so as you can imagine, it has been VERY hard to lose the tummy pudge. I have gotten into much better shape as of late, but, probably because of my age (and the fact that I needed a C-Sec), may actually need surgury if I want to get rid the yucky, wrinkely overhang that was once my tummy. I think most of the fat is gone -- but it just sort of hangs there now. Looks TERRIBLE. Thank goodness no one can tell unless they see me completely naked.
Well, anyway, those are my thoughts. Give yourself time and with a little work (it really is not that hard when you put your mind to it), you will look terrific once again!!! You are young, so I'm sure you will be back catching the guy's eyes in no time!
Good Luck!