Category: Beauty and Fashion Tips

It only takes one peek at the latest episodes of “The Bachelor” or the “Real Housewives” of Anywhere America to say, “I want that.” The “that” in question is always something gorgeous and luxurious, like a sparkly pair of shoes shown in the Tell-Alls, or a smashing handbag slung carelessly on the arms of the well-to-do. But we can’t always get what we want upon the discovery that the bag in question costs the price of a small used vehicle.

That doesn’t have to be the case for the proactive fashionista. Discover how to get designer brands for less with these easy tips on getting luxury clothes at bargain bin prices.

Seek Alternatives and Bridge Lines

When it comes to shopping with a “Real Housewives” taste on a “Two Broke Girls” kind of budget, bridge lines are a fashionista’s best friend. A bridge line is a line of clothing that appears outside of the fancy Neiman Marcus’s pristine walls, and inside the more bargain friendly stores.

You’ve probably seen some already, such as the Marc Jacobs line at Target on occasion. Stores like Filene’s Basement also offer bridge lines and could be the perfect destination for your next pair of Ralph Lauren wedges for under $40.

You might also find bridge lines or designer brands for less on lower cost websites such as Zulily or Haute Look.

Another bridge on bridge lines can be found at your local consignment boutique. Scour them all within a 100-mile radius.

Many consignment boutiques have the cast-offs from the doctor’s wives and pilots of the community. Those spangly thousand dollar shoes or “worn once wedding treats” you might find for $20 or less at consignment boutiques.

You also want to stay on top of the 5 cool fashion trends that don’t break the wallet.

Shop Designer Brands for Less Off Season

We all run to the stores after Christmas to purchase next year’s Christmas lights and wrapping paper for pennies. Fashion works the same, and fashion always works one season ahead.

You’re probably already seeing Spring collections in the stores while you’re still wondering where to get your Winter coat, for less.

Shopping in the off-season is your go-to tip when it comes to getting something designer name for less. This works for both men and women.

Check out samples at the Jared Lang Collection for example after February 2019 and you’ll be saving money in between the seasons.

When you are shopping in the offseason, you don’t want to always be thinking about what you are wearing tomorrow. In the middle of the Summer, you could purchase next year’s Winter coat at lower than bargain prices if you do it right.

You always want to choose classic pieces that will stand the test of time. As unique and artistic as fashion can be, if you are spending a lot on a Winter coat, you want that hundred or so dollars to stretch a few years.

That’s how you become a bargain fashionista and look like a million dollars year after year.

Be a Proactive Fashionista

In today’s day and age, fashionistas are male or female, and we are all looking for a little saving. If you want designer brands for less, you need to be proactive, and creative.

Become besties with your local consignment shop’s owner, stay on top of the seasonal sales, and don’t be afraid to shop in the off-season. Use those proactive actions and these 8 easy tips to be fashionable on a budget, and you’ll shop designer brands for less all year long.

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.

Whether you’re a total makeup junkie or if you’re just now getting into the beauty world for the first time, to truly beat your face, you need the right tools.

Of course, that means reading reviews, watching makeup tutorials, and even asking local makeup artists their preferences when it comes to brands, shades, and lip kits. But the most important makeup tools of all aren’t the actual products you use.

Instead, it’s the makeup brushes you use to apply them.

Making an investment in the right essential makeup brushes can seriously upgrade your application skills, and help you to avoid a patchy or caked-on look.

In other words? They’re a smart investment, especially because they often allow you to use less product.

Keep on reading our makeup brushes guide to learn which brushes you absolutely need to buy.

Choosing High-Quality Basic Makeup Brushes

Before we get into the essential makeup brushes that beauty enthusiasts of every level have to own?

Let’s first discuss how to find quality brushes. We know that you’re always looking for a great deal, but making a larger investment in your makeup brushes upfront will save you in the long run.

Plus, it will prevent you from running back to your fave makeup store every month, and buying even more makeup just because you’re there.

While these brushes might be great for commercial use, that’s not the kind of texture you want on your face! To ensure the brush is soft enough, gently rub it against your inner arm before you buy. Check out the texture, and see if it feels soft as opposed to scratchy.

Finally, make sure the brush didn’t leave any fibers behind. Those tiny black and brown hairs are a pain to pull off your face, and you’ll risk ruining your makeup.

The Essential Makeup Brushes

Now that you know how to pick the best types of makeup brushes, let’s get into the essentials.

No kit is complete without these fluffy additions. Brushes are a much better alternative to applying with your hands, because you don’t want to risk transferring the millions of bacteria on your hands to your face.

Just make sure that you wash your brushes, at minimum, once a week. This will keep them germ-free, and can even extend their lifespan.

1. A Foundation Brush

This small, flat brush for liquid foundation looks almost like a paintbrush — and for good reason.

It will help you to get an even coat of your foundation, and allows you to create buildable coverage for areas that might need more makeup than others.

To use it, put a small amount of your liquid foundation on the back of your hand, and use the same grip that you would for a pencil. Pick up a small amount of foundation, and start applying foundation all the way up to your hairline.

We know that you’re likely curious about the Beautyblender, a spongey foundation tool that’s certainly a cult item in the makeup world. And while your foundation tool is matter of personal preference, the truth is that a traditional brush doesn’t require you to use as much makeup as a sponge.

2. A Powder Brush

You’ve worked hard to apply your foundation, your concealer, and even your bronzer and highlighter.

Now, it’s time to lock it all into place for the day using a powder brush. Apply tinted or translucent powder by sweeping the brush over the product in a circular motion.

Tap off the excess, and apply in large, circular motions across your face and neck.

3. A Blush Brush

Blush helps you to look more awake, and gives your face dimension and definition.

However, you don’t want it to look like a giant streak across your face. A blush brush helps you to get the perfect application every time.

Also, if you’re a fan of highlighter, you can use your blush brush to add a little golden shimmer to your upper cheekbones and the area above your lip.

It will give your skin a serious glow!

4. An Eyeshadow Blending Brush

This brush is a must-have if you want to prevent your eyeshadow from looking streaky and choppy.

The goal with proper eyeshadow application is to have one shade seamlessly transition into another. After you finish applying the colors of your choice (pro tip: medium on the lid, dark in the crease, and light on the browbone) grab your blending brush.

Using windshield wiper motions, slowly blend the shades into each other.

5. An Eyebrow Comb

It’s no secret that eyebrows are all the rage in the beauty world. So, it goes without saying that you have to add an eyebrow comb to your basic makeup brushes.

Brush your brows upward, using a little clear brow gel for especially unruly brows. This will help you to make your arches more pronounced, and will make it much easier to apply color.

Add These Different Makeup Brushes to Your Kit

We hope you’ve enjoyed — and learned from — our list of the top five most essential makeup brushes.

Remember to do your research online before making an investment, and whenever possible, buy them in person.

There are all kinds of super-cute and themed makeup brush kits out there, as well.

In addition to helping you to feel a little more festive every time you put your face on, investing in a brush kit will also help you to save money.

Looking for more ways to save on the products you use every day? Ready to score some serious deals on your favorite makeup? Want to learn how to get glowing skin?

Keep checking back with us to get access to the latest deals on a wide variety of brands and products.

Selling over 200 million Pumpkin Spice Lattes since 2013 signals more than just profit for Starbucks. The long lines tell us it’s time to get the sweaters out and brush off the boots, too.

If your winter wardrobe is feeling a little too familiar, don’t worry. Some of the current fashion trends 2018 are familiar, also. Tweeds, 80’s retro, and oversized coats are all the rage.

If those Pumpkin Spice Oreos you have in the pantry beeline to your waistline, you’re in luck.

If you follow the 2018 fall trend, no one will notice. From the cut of slacks to your favorite winter coat, most everything’s bigger this year.

Here are a few highlights from the forecast:

Big, Oversized Coats

Designers are answering the call of #MeToo among their customers with empowerment.

Women entering the workplace during WWll had clothing for protection rather than decoration. This year’s runway shows hommage with suit coats, trench coats, and double-breasted jackets.

The newest versions are loose-fitting and long. Though a few designs show a belt, it’s the shape and length of the clothes that shine rather than what’s underneath.

Textured, Floral, and Long

Dresses in floral patterns and appliques are at the very shortest, mid-calf. Textures include chunky knits and stiff fabrics that stand up straight.

Classic herringbone, tweed, and bright skirts pair up with sweaters and flat boots. Slacks are wider-cut and show with layers.

And, ala streetwear, the look topped with a hat or fitted hood are tres chic.

80’s Memories

It’s not Madonna’s black bustier, but Boy George’s long, colorful coat that’s back. Power suits, big shoulder pads, and animal prints come calling as well.

Are you a hardcore 80’s clothes junkie? There’s also gold lame and leather jackets with several inches of shoulder.

Remember pants that gather at the ankle? Yep, they’re back. Jumpsuits, too. Is this the final demise of the skinny jean? We can only hope.

Prints, Checks, Fringe, and Ruffles

There are loads of bold prints as we bid a fond farewell the old block patterns. Long dresses and skirts show layers of ruffles or fringe at the hemlines.

There’s a smattering of vintage for those who like checked patterns over houndstooth.

It’s not your gramma’s gingham though. Today’s checks range from neon green to big black, red, or purple.

Check Jacquemus for some of the coolest new 2018 arrivals.

The Cable You Don’t Want to Cut

We love our cable knits, and for sure they’re here to stay. They’re a comfortable friend we can bring to work, play, and date night.

This fall, there’s hooded versions, sweaters and matching slouch hats. Muted tones are perfect in layering comfortable tunics.

Don’t overlook dresses and skirts, too. These pieces pair great with scarves and leggings for both fun style and cozy warmth. Like our favorite latte, they never let us down.

Can You Find Current Fashion Trends 2018 on a Budget? Yes!

The current fashion trends 2018 that are a rerun of old are easy to find in thrift shops, too! Check out our 5 Types of Clothing to Look Out for While Thrift Shopping to get started!

What do you think of when you see a watch?

Watches weren’t always a status symbol. Their initial role was to tell time. But throughout history, they became an accessory that complements even the most basic of outfits.

Today, the market is overflowing with watch brands–but not all are made equal. There are clear differences in quality, workmanship, style, materials, and price.

Keep reading to learn how to buy a watch you’ll love (and wear) for years to come.

How to Buy a Watch: The Basics

Buying a watch may look as easy as going into a store and picking one. However, there are some basics you should know before you invest in this timeless accessory.

Read on to learn which details to pay attention to and how to make the right choice for you.

1. Budget

Before you start browsing for watches, you should set a clear budget.

If you want a truly exquisite watch, be prepared to pay thousands of dollars. But if you need a good starter timepiece, you can find high-quality watches from well-known brands for $300-$1,000.

Department stores and chain retailers offer all sorts of price ranges if your budget is limited.

The price usually reflects the workmanship, mechanics, brand heritage and quality of materials. Bear this in mind when you’re deciding on your watch purchase.

2. Style

Before you buy a watch, consider your personal fashion style.

Are you into classic, sophisticated clothing? Or do you prefer a more playful, casual look? This will determine the watch styles you should get to match your outfits.

For example, rubber and plastic watches won’t go well with a suit. Sporty watches with complications may work for casual wear, but not for business casual.

Dress watches with metal or leather straps are usually a great choice for any outfit. Whether you’re a man or a woman, a beautiful watch can take your style to the next level.

3. Occasion

True watch connoisseurs know how to pick a watch for every occasion.

For formal events where you’d wear a gown or a tuxedo, your watch should blend in with the outfit. Dress watches are your best choice here as they’re sophisticated and minimalistic.

Dress watches also go with date night outfits or corporate office attire. In more casual work settings or for a night out with friends, you should go for a simple, modern watch.

You don’t have to buy an expensive watch to make your outfit look good. You can dress well on a budget–as long as you know how to pick and combine your pieces.

4. Wrist Size

When you’re trying on watches at the store, consider your wrist size. You don’t want the wristwatch to be too big or too small–otherwise, it might look disproportionate.

The best way to determine which size to buy is to measure your wrist circumference. If it’s 6-7 inches, go for a 38-42 mm timepiece. If it’s above 7 inches, watches with 44-46 mm width will fit you perfectly.

5. Mechanism

One of the main differences in price between high-end luxury watch brands and all other watches is the built-in mechanism.

Most companies producing expensive watches make their own in-house mechanisms and pay a lot of attention to detail. They test the mechanism several times to ensure it’s perfect before installation.

This requires time, testing materials, and expertise–all of which increase the watch’s worth.

Brands that offer more affordable watches usually order the mechanism already assembled from the supplier. This is why they cost less than luxury brands.

6. Features

Aside from telling time, watches serve other purposes.

For instance, aviator watches come with complications that pilots find useful during their flights. Driving watches are used by racers, bikers, and even cyclists to measure speed, lap times, and mileage.

Diving watches are intended for divers and can tell time, depth, and immersion time left. They’re waterproof, made of durable materials, and can be read in the dark.

Casual and dress watches may come with fewer features. But if you’re only wearing them as an accessory, a minimalistic design is all you need.

7. Movements

There are three main types of watch movements:

• Quartz
• Mechanical
• Automatic

Most medium and low-priced watches are made with quartz movement because it’s cheaper to produce and gets the job done. They’re battery-operated and don’t use complicated mechanisms to operate with accuracy.

However, true watch aficionados will only wear watches with mechanical movement. This is an indicator of craftsmanship and heritage. Mechanical watches are manually wound and the hands move in smooth motions rather than ticking one second at a time.

Automatic watches are similar to mechanical without the need of winding them by hand. They’re called automatic because they use your motion to keep working. As long as it detects your wrist movements, it’ll keep ticking.

8. Workmanship

Watch-making is nothing short of an art form. It involves a lot of patience, attention to detail, knowledge, and creativity.

Watch buying is not that much different. Those who know how much effort goes into making a top-notch timepiece will invest in one to honor the watchmaker.

If you open any two watches, you’ll immediately notice the differences in their mechanism and materials used. To learn more about the features of a quality watch, view here.

9. Get Recommendations

You can read every watch buying guide you come across, but you’ll get the best information through recommendations.

Ask your friends and family if they recently bought a watch and if so, how they made their decision. If you have someone in your circle who knows watches, ask them to come with you when you shop.

The best way to guarantee quality is to learn as much as you can and stick to your budget.

The Best Watches Are Timeless

If you’re wondering how to buy a watch you’ll love and wear forever, these tips will help you make the best choice.

For more fashion and style tips, head over to our fashion and beauty blog.

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