Category: Beauty and Fashion Tips

Believe it or not, it’s no need to spend a fortune on shampoos and fancy treatments to have beautiful hair. From coupons and online deals to multipurpose formulas, there are lots of great ways to save money on hair care. Plus, you can always go for DIY hair styling.

According to a recent survey, most American women spend about $80 a month on hair care products. That’s over $55,000 in a lifetime!

If you also go to a salon to get your hair done, the costs add up. Not to mention impulse purchases like that cool hair mask you’ve bought for the packaging alone!

A little planning goes a long way toward saving money. Here are some simple tips to find the best deals on hair styling products:

Stock Up on the Basics

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need dozens of products to keep your shiny and strong. A quality shampoo can truly work wonders for your tresses.

Depending on your needs and budget, invest in a premium shampoo and moisturizing deep conditioner.

Make your own hair masks and nourishing treatments using olive oil, argan oil, rosewater, and other natural ingredients.

Buy in Bulk

Once you find a hair product you love, buy the largest bottle. In general, hair styling products tend to be cheaper when purchased in bulk.

Most brands also offer discounts to those who buy two or more bottles at once. You could even get the second one for half the price! Also, look for special deals like “Buy one, get one free.”

Prioritize Quality

Whether you’re shopping for a new conditioner, hair mask, or mousse for curly hair, prioritize quality. It’s better to buy a premium organic or natural hair product rather 10 cheap products packed with chemicals.

Poor quality shampoos and treatments can ruin both your hair and scalp. For instance, they may trigger an allergic reaction that will cost hundreds to treat.

Things are even worse for those who are prone to dandruff, scalp psoriasis, or dermatitis. Certain chemicals in hair styling products can worsen their symptoms and trigger flare-ups.

Shop Around

The easiest way to save money on hair care products is to shop around.

Prices vary from one store to another, and from one brand to the next. The more you research your options, the higher your chances to find a good deal.

Let’s say you have a favorite hair mask. Check its price on the manufacturer’s website as well as on eBay, Amazon, and online beauty stores. Use a price comparison site to save time and money.

The same goes for brick-and-mortar stores. Visit several shops and check the prices before buying your go-to hair mask.

Be a Loyal Customer

Most hair care brands feature loyalty programs that allow customers to earn points for every purchase. Later, they can turn those points into money. Ulta and Birchbox are a good example.

On top of that, you could get discounts just by joining their email list. Companies reward their subscribers with secret deals and special offers that are not available in stores.

Save Big on Hair Styling Products

As you see, saving money on hair styling products isn’t rocket science. All it takes is a little planning. Think about what you need, prioritize quality, and shop around instead of making impulse purchases.

For further savings, look beyond brand names. Many drugstore products contain the same ingredients and work just as well as their more expensive counterparts.

Don’t forget to take advantage of annual and seasonal sales! Almost every brand has at least one major sale each year.

Do you have any tips to share? What’s the best deal you ever got on beauty products? Share your story below!

Comfortability doesn’t always have to come at a high price. Looking for comfortable shoes that don’t break the bank? It might not be the easiest task, but we’re here to help.

Having a good pair of comfortable shoes does more for your body than just a nice cushion on your feet. Wearing comfortable shoes keeps other parts of your body from having to overcompensate, which is good for overall health. So spending a little more money is definitely worth it.

But you don’t need to empty your entire wallet to find the best comfort. If you’ve been searching for the most comfortable shoes for women, then look no further. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 most comfortable women’s shoes.

Keep reading to learn more.

1. Fila Women’s Kimber Slip Resistant Shoes

A simple pair of flats can go a long way. They’re perfect for a quick slip on when running late to work. Or, pair them with jeans and a tee for a more casual look. 

Flats are pretty versatile. But they’re sometimes uncomfortable. So for a good pair of comfortable flats, check out the Fila Women’s Kimber Slip Resistant flats.

These flats are great on the job shoes as they provide a slip-resistant sole. And they are filled with plenty of cushion on the inside so your feet will be happy even at the end of a long day. All of these qualities are awesome, but what’s the best thing about them?

The price. These flats are available for only $34!

2. Anne Klein AK Sport Women’s Petra Suede Loafer Flat 

If loafers are more your style, then you’ll want to check out Anne Klein’s AK Sport Women’s Petra Suede Loafer flats. For only $62 on Amazon, you get an amazingly comfortable shoe. These shoes are embedded with iFlex technology for added support and comfort.

They’re black suede with a fashionable silver buckle on top. Purchasing these Anne Klein loafer flats means saying goodbye to compromise. You get comfort, function, and style all in one shoe! 

3. Ecco Women’s Soft 5 Mary Jane 

The Ecco Women’s Soft 5 Mary Jane shoe is one of the most comfortable shoes for women. These slip-on shoes have a velcro strap on top and small holes throughout the sides for easy breathing. They’re super lightweight so you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.

You can get them on Amazon for $59. And with all the extra support, comfort, and breathability, these Ecco shoes are worth the buy!

4. Clarks Women’s Kinzie Light Skimmer

For a cute slip-on flat that offers a cushioned OrthoLite footbed and great arch support, look into Clarks Women’s Kinzie Light Skimmer flats. They’re made with leather, suede, or a leather combo. These shoes are super stylish with a cute black buckle on top and textile lining.

For $37 you’ll be styling comfortably. 

And with all the added support, they’re great for flat feet. Learn more on what shoes are best for flat feet! 

5. Crocs Unisex Bistro Pro Clog

Crocs are a great shoe for working in hospitals, kitchens, and more. But they’re also good for everyday wear. And the Bistro Pro Clog Crocs are a comfortable option that can be worn by both men and women. 

For late night cooking at home, throw these shoes on for optimal comfort rather than standing on a hard tile surface. You can purchase these Crocs online on places like Amazon for just $24!

6. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low II Sneaker

Converse isn’t usually known to be one of the most comfortable shoe brands. But that’s all about to change.

Take everything you believe about converse sneakers and toss it out the window, except for how fashionable they are of course! Still stylish, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low II Sneakers have taken comfort to a whole new level. They’re made with much more cushioning than the average converse.

And they have an elastic tongue and better floor gripping soles. They’re a great pair of shoes for a long work day or an enjoyable day out on the town. Pick them up on Amazon starting at only $19!

7. Ugg Sammy Sneaker

These vibrant knit flats are cool, stylish, and have a super chill vibe. Made by Ugg, the Sammy Sneakers aren’t a furry boot, but they are just as cozy. You can find yourself a pair for around $45 on sale. 

The knitted material is great for a day at the beach or a day at the grocery store. And they’re available in a variety of colors.

8. Allbird’s Merino Wool Sneakers

Do you wish it were socially acceptable to hang out in public wearing your slippers all day? Well, now it can be. The Allbird’s Merino Wool Sneakers look like sneakers but feel like your favorite pair of slippers. 

For $95 you can get a slipper and sneaker all in one. The outsole is designed with an “S-Curve” that helps support your weight in a more natural way. And the wool keeps your feet comfy and warm. 

9. Nike Free RN Trainer

When traveling or needing to pack a pair of sneakers in your bag for any reason, you’ll want to choose the Nike Free RN Trainer. They’re super light and easy to carry along with you. You can find them on sale for as low as $67.

They’re cushioned on the inside and even have a cushioned tongue and collar. The colors are endless, so you’ll have no problem choosing the right style for you.

10. OluKai’s Crisscrossed Leather Pair

If you thought that there was no way a cute pair of sandals would be on our list of the most comfortable shoes, prepare to be amazed! The OluKai’s Crisscrossed Leather Pair of Sandals is all you need on your vacation to the tropics or day out on the town. They’re made with a footbed that contorts to your foot’s shape.

So the more you wear them, the more comfortable that they become. They come in plenty of color options so there’s something for everyone. And you can grab yourself a pair for $90.

The Most Comfortable Shoes For Women Don’t Have to Cost You an Arm & a Leg

Some of the most comfortable shoes for women come at an affordable price. So don’t become discouraged when looking for the right pair of comfy shoes for you. Whether you need a cute pair of flats or an all-day sneaker, there’s an option for you. 

Keep this guide in mind when shopping around. And for more great ways on how to budget your money, check out our blog on the top 5 reasons to use an expense tracker. Click here to learn more.  

Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular choice for people with tooth loss, and with good reason!

They look great, are long-lasting and protect the bone and teeth that are already there. The only drawback is, they can be taxing on the wallet.

But you know, there are some ways around that. We’re here to help you get the smile you want, but make sure your bank statement doesn’t wipe it off your face.

Read on for 5 ways to save money on dental implants.

1. Check Your Insurance

OK, this may seem like an obvious one. But there are lots of insurers who will meet you part way on the cost of dental implants, and it’s well worth checking out your options.

Sometimes they will have a recommended dentist they prefer you to go to. They may even be willing to cover a larger amount of the cost if you go this way.

2. Work With Your Dentist

Dentists understand that needed dental work can be costly. Most are willing to discuss options that will help you get the dental implants you need and not go bankrupt in the process.

Ask them whether there are discount programs available. Are they willing to offer a payment plan?

Rest assured, you won’t be the first to ask! They may have a few options available that can help to make your surgery more affordable.

3. Shop Around

It’s always possible that your regular dentist is not the cheapest option for this procedure.

Armed with complete information about exactly what procedure you need, you’re in a position to visit or call other local dentists to see what they can do for you.

4. Check Out Dental Schools

If you’d like cheaper dental care and to contribute something to the next generation of dental professionals then using a dental school can be a great route to affordable dental implants.

The best thing is that they always have a professional dentist on hand. Although the students perform the procedures they are fully supervised and well trained.

5. Consider Dental Tourism

This might seem like an extreme option, but there are many countries overseas that offer high-quality dental work at much lower prices than back home.

As with all things, do your research. If you’re making it part of a vacation, then you may be able to combine it with your vacation budget. If not, make sure the cost of travel and hotels doesn’t outweigh the benefits.

Also, undertake thorough research into the dental clinic you’re thinking of using. Make personal contact with former patients from your country who had similar procedures if possible.

The Takeaway: How to Save Money on Dental Implants

Dental implants can make a huge difference in your quality of life. Don’t miss out because of fear of the cost!

Just follow our 5 simple tips and you’ll be able to find an option that’s right for you – whether it means a couple of weeks in Mexico or a trip down the road to a dental school!

For more great tips on saving money at the dentist, click here to read our blog on 5 Tips for finding affordable dental care for you and your family.

New Chanel watches can go for as much as $15,000.

A nice Rolex watch will set you back around $10,000.

So how do you get big name luxury items for a price you can afford? After all, not everyone is able to purchase a new watch for the price of a car.

If you’re interested in affordable luxury watches, read on. We’ve got some amazing tips and tricks to help you score the best deals when it comes to high fashion for less.

Stop at a Pawn Shop

Some people may not know what pawn shops are. Others may be well versed in them. But either way, they’re a great place to go to catch a deal.

Luxury watches, jewelry, and designer items are something people often put in hock, another term for giving it up to pawn.

So what exactly are pawn shops? Well, they’re a way for individuals to get loans quickly and easily. Or, they can just get rid of things they no longer need.

For example, if someone needs a loan of $2,000, they can put up their luxury watch as collateral. This means that if they can’t pay back the loan in a certain amount of time, the pawn shop will become the owner of the watch.

Or, if people just need the money and don’t want to take it as a loan, they can sell the item to the pawn shop.

If the person hasn’t been able to buy their item out of hock, then it’s up for grabs for the general public, and the pawn shop will put it on sale.

Your local pawn shop is a great place to go to find discounts on electronics, designer goods and even luxury watches. Because the person who sold it sold it quickly and in a bit of rush, it’s most likely marked down from how much you’d get it at the mall or another retailer.

Avoid Going to a Chain Store: Except Under a Few Conditions

If you want to buy a Chanel watch, Chanel is probably the last place you should go, unless you can afford it full price. Some luxury stores never put their items on sale. They also never participate in loyalty programs or allow you to earn points from a credit card or other program. This kind of mentality keeps the brand exclusive.

However, if a store selling a designer item you are eyeing does have a sale, it’s more than worth it to look. You should also look at your credit cards to see if they have any kind of programs that allow you to collect points towards certain purchases.

You can also use loyalty cards to sometimes buy items at specific stores. Not every store does sell designer watches, but sometimes you can find them at brick and mortar stores that do loyalty programs.

Buy New Items Online

The Internet is a wondrous place, and even more so because you can buy new luxury items online. Websites like Yoox and Bluefly offer customers the chance to get their hands on out of seasons (or sometimes in season!) designer items. The items are often at a significant discount to what you’d pay in a retail store, and sometimes you can even get them for a major discount while they’re still hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars in other stores.

Websites like https://www.watchshopping.com/hamilton also offer you discounts on new items, but this time, it’s specifically for watches.

You don’t need to go second-hand in order to get a significant discount on a luxury watch. And sometimes, it can even be in your budget. Treat yourself!

Buy Used

If you’ve ever watched Jim Bob Duggar on 19 Kids and Counting and the subsequent shows, you’ll know he’s stated that his family’s motto is, “Buy used and save the difference.”

In some cases, you may not have been able to afford the price of the new item in the first place, but it doesn’t mean you can’t still get a great deal by buying used.

You can buy authentic used items sometimes at stores themselves. They may have a program that allows past customers to recycle their watches for a discount on an upgrade. And thus, they may sell refurbished luxury watches.

You can also always go to a consignment store where you’ll likely find some luxury watches on sale. A consignment store, for those not in the know, is one that accepts used high-end luxury items and sells them on. When someone buys the item, the store then gives a percentage of the sale to the individual who gave them the item.

With a consignment shop, especially one that specializes in luxury items, you’ll almost always know that the item is authentic. This is because often, the people who own these stores are well-versed in a brand or design.

Buying second-hand online can come with risks, including the risk that you do buy something that isn’t authentic, despite the seller’s claim.

Buying Affordable Luxury Watches

Affordable luxury watches aren’t as out of reach as you might think. In fact, they’re actually pretty obtainable, if you know exactly where to look. Set your expectations to be realistic. But also, be aware that if you’re looking for a specific luxury watch and only want that one, it can take you quite a while to score it.

With a bit of patience, you’ll have your perfect watch on your wrist for a price that won’t clean you out.

Want more frugal beauty and fashion advice? Visit us here!

Who among us doesn’t watch shampoo commercials with envy for the models’ lustrous locks? The problem is that having gorgeous hair is those models’ job. They and their employers invest thousands in treatments, trims, products, and styling to get that look.

We can’t promise you’ll be waving your shiny hair around in a meadow, but there’s still hope. There are plenty of ways to get gorgeous hair without blowing your life’s savings on hair care products.

For beautiful hair you can afford, try these tips for great savings.

Tips to Save on Hair Care Products

Most of us can’t afford the highest of high-end hair care like Cuvée Beauty, but it turns out it’s not necessary. Here’s how to save on your favorite hair care products.

1. Cut Back Your Shower Routine

It might sound obvious but one of the best ways to pay less for a hair product is to use less of it. We’re not suggesting that you abandon shampoo and conditioner. However, you should use shampoo as little as possible.

Instead of shampooing every day on autopilot, wait to shampoo until your hair is oily. You’ll probably find yourself shampooing two or three times per week instead of seven.

In fact, shampooing your hair too much will strip the natural oils and dry out your hair. You’ll end up spending even more money buying hydrating products you shouldn’t need in the first place.

2. Experiment With Dosages

Another effective way to cut down on your hair products is to use them in smaller amounts. Most of us squeeze a certain amount of shampoo or conditioner into our hands without thinking about it.

Instead, start paying attention to how much you use. Use less and less each day until you find the point when your results suffer. Use a touch more product than that an voila, you’ve stopped wasting hair product.

3. Coupon, Coupon, and Coupon More

Hair products are a couponer’s heaven. They’re some of the easiest items to find coupons for, and you can score huge savings if you plan well.

On top of your local paper, there are often printable coupons for hair products. With their long shelf lives, it’s easy to stock up on them too. 

4. Go the DIY Route

Making your own laundry detergent and household cleaner has become a popular way to save cash. Did you know you can do the same with your hair products?

There are countless recipes online that let you make your own shampoo. It’s also easy to find recipes for conditioner, hair masks, and other hair products too. If you’re planning to try them, now’s the time to start saving your spent bottles and containers.

We have a word of warning, though. Not all DIY recipes are cheaper than store bought alternatives. Do a careful cost analysis before you spend $20 on ingredients to make a $2 bottle of conditioner.

5. Get Every Last Drop

If you added up how much money you’ve thrown away at the bottom of product bottles, you’d be kicking yourself. Over time, the leftover product you toss out adds up.

Instead, try some simple tactics to get every last drop out of your product bottles. One option is to use the old “add water and shake” trick. A few drops of water can pull make the product accessible without diluting it too much.

It’s even more effective, though, to use a tiny spatula. There are spatulas with the specific purpose of clearing out makeup and hair product bottles.

6. Sample It Up

The best way to save on something is to get it for free. You might be surprised how easy it is to score free hair products if you know where to look.

Free samples are common marketing techniques for hair product manufacturers. In many cases, brands have forms on their website you can fill out to give free samples.

There are also third-party websites with the sole purpose of finding free samples for you. Keep in mind that some of these sites end up sending you a lot of spam, though, so be prepared to delete some emails.

7. Keep Your Styles Simple

We’d all love to hop out of bed with a flowing mane, but that’s not reality. For most of us, styling our hair is the most time-consuming part of our daily routine. Beyond time, though, many styles require a lot of expensive products too.

If your mornings are full of sprays, gels, pins, shine enhancers and more, maybe it’s time for a change. Cruise the web for more natural styles you can try that don’t require so many products.

Keep an eye out for styles that keep heat to a minimum too. Heat tools can damage your hair so you’ll need pricey products or treatments to keep frizz at bay. That’s a recipe for taking more money out of your pocket.

8. Get Organized

Most of our money-saving tips have focused on how to use fewer products and save on them when you buy them. There’s another common reason we waste money though: buying duplicate products because you’ve lost yours.

While this doesn’t happen as much with shampoo and conditioner, it’s the scourge of bobby pins and ponytail holders. You buy a 100-pack and seem to run out after only throwing out a dozen of them. The rest are lost somewhere under furniture or in purses.

Instead, find a way to organize your hair supplies in one reliable place. You’d be surprised how long your hair products will last when you use them until they wear out.

Gorgeous Hair for Less Green

There’s a reason wealthy people always seem to have better hair. The easiest way to make your hair look its best is to dump money into high-end products and stylists.

That isn’t the only way, though. The tips above can help you have all the hair care products you need without blowing your budget.

For more awesome ways to save without compromising your style, check out our frugal living blog.