April 30, 2008

Tips for Frugal Shopping

Feeling the crunch? Don't worry. I've gathered up some of my very favorite budget shopping tips for you to use and still get a chance to kit out your wardrobe. Even if you don't shop on a budget, applying these techniques just saves more money to buy more things. . . and that's never bad. Shopping smart is always great.


Switch some regular purchases to online selections.

Consider buying some of your office supplies online, for example, instead of picking them up at the usual shops. You can save 15% off of your purchases over a certain amount, and you can also score free shipping. Forget having to wait in line, and spending money on gas driving to the store.


Jot down your best deals.

Do you find that some shops are better for certain things? Make a list of where you score the best deals to avoid wasting time hunting online every time. For example, my personal list reminds me to look for books over at eBay as well as Amazon-- and to avoid Barnes and Nobles' sometimes more expensive shipping costs. Always keep that in mind as well- shipping costs can really affect what you consider to be the best deal.


Ask around.

I have a very frugal friend who knows who to maximize her savings. When I really think that I can't save any more, I double-check with her: she tells me exactly how to save more. If you have a friend who could compete with Amy Dacyczyn's Tightwad Gazette lifestyle, you can always learn a thing or two. Silently observe them if you don't want to ask for advice, and you're sure to discover new saving techniques that way, too.


Start "recycling."

If you are an avid eBay shopper, try to keep things in rotation. Instead of having a mountainous pile of "to donate" items, when you buy something on eBay, put something on sale of a comparable value. It's a great way to keep costs down, keep yourself more organized, and simultaneously reward yourself for it.


Only buy in bulk when you need to.

This tip applies for my grocery purchases, but it can also apply to family supplies and household items. If you are on a strict budget, consider buying regular-sized packages and seeing how your usage of the product changes. The psychology regarding your well-stocked items can be amazing, because when you feel like you have less, you'll probably use less. I do this with my food to eat less as well, but you need to shop for the deepest discounts to save on a comparable level with some items purchased in bulk.


Do you have any saver tips?

March 03, 2008

New Site Shopping Tips

I haven't been to eModa in a long time, and I thought I would check it out to see how things are going over there! To be honest, it's been long enough that I couldn't remember what it looked like.

Do you have a general attack plan when you're on a new website? If you are crushed for time like me, sometimes having a certain way to find and choose your favorite items can be very beneficial. Here's how I shop at new sites to get the maximum effect from the very best pieces:


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1. Scan the top banners and tags for quick links. Sometimes "Women" isn't always the best link to choose, and instead you can go straight to the links like New Arrivals or Top Spring Picks, for example. On eModa, I chose thge "Just 4 Me" section, which includes a super-cute line of t-shirts like this Just 4 Me Robin Evening Shirt, which is my top pick for this section and has a highly creative look.




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2. Check out the main page modeling pics and selections. It's an easy way to check out top pieces and new selections without searching. Having everything laid out for you on the first page is beneficial for each and every merchant, so you will most likely find just what you need-- or at least a hint-- since every shop wants to attract your attention as soon as possible to keep you from moving on. I suggest scrolling down to the very bottom of the page to find features like the Look Book to find pre-styled looks to inspire you and make shopping so much easier. I was drawn to this Rocker Top from Salvage Mind as well.




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3. Head straight to the sale. Looking for a bargain? Head straight to the Sale rack and don't look back! Instead of tempting yourself with full-priced fashions, get the most from your sale rack from a quick glance and price comparison. Make use of the "Sort By Price" function over at eModa. My most exciting deal? This Y.O.U. Skeleton Print Dress is currently marked down to 50% off.




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4. Hunt for special features. Each site has an interesting new feature, and eModa has a great Denim Bar function that highlights celebrity style and cool new jeans brands. I was drawn to this pair of True Religion Sydney Jeans in Mo Fo, which have a shapely back and stitching in bright orange.





February 20, 2008

Great Low-Cost Accessories: When to Spend, When to Save

I'm always in the mood for a deal, but I know you have to pick and choose where to save and where to, well, not. After a LOT of great savings, and just about as many ones that probably should've gone differently, I've become a professional deal hunter! ;) So when you get to the "Scrimp... or Save" problem, you can always check out my list.

Prodimagems_2
(Rita Rainieri Clear Faceted Oval Earrings)

Spend or Save?
Earrings-- Spend

Don't spend money on low quality earrings. Even if you don't have any metal allergies or sensitive skin, higher quality earrings will last a lifetime, and cheap ones won't even last the season. Plus, your ears can easily become red and irritated with cheaper pairs. Unless you must have a trendy set to wear with a specific outfit, save up and buy just one classic pair a year in sterling silver, 18K gold, or hypoallergenic metal.

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(Stones and Bead Necklaces)

Spend or Save?
Necklaces-- Save

You can find plenty of great necklaces for little-- just look for semiprecious stones and multiple-strands of beads to prove it! Simple and inexpensive rose quartz or frosted glass can look far more expensive than their true cost. Get a bracelet to match if you can.

Prodimagems
(BCBG Girls Pumps, 40% Off)

Spend or Save?
Shoes-- BOTH!

Shoes pound the pavement and can face the elements, so sometimes expensive ones aren't practical. If you live in a climate with adverse weather, salt can affect your shoes even further. However, the cheapest shoes may not be the best buy, either, as the heels may bend under your weight when you're mid-commute.

Look for heels from reliable brands on sale for the best value, and always bring a second pair of shoes for your commute.

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(Jennifer Zeuner Love Cutout Ring)

Spend or Save?
Rings-- Spend

You should splash out when you want to buy a ring. Since they usually stay on your finger during handwashing during the day and are often the first thing to be noticed, accessory-wise, you'll be best off with the highest quality you can afford. Plus, who wants a ring that dyes her finger black or green?


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(Skinny Floral Scarf)

Spend or Save?
Scarves-- Save

Save money when it comes to scarves-- you'll be happy with what you find. Instead of focusing on the fabric itself, concentrate on the pattern that's trendy this season, such as animal prints or bold florals. No one will notice your brand of choice, and you'll still be completely in style.

January 30, 2008

This Week's Fashion Goal: Stocking Up on Dressy Tops

In my opinion, you can never have enough dressy tops. You need ones for those nights when you go all-out, you need ones for the times when you need to dress up but you need to be comfortable, and of course you need tops for hanging out with the girls, when there are no guys around and you can dress comfortably.

I've been taking a peek around at affordable tops, and I landed at Charlotte Russe. I've breezed by a million times at the mall, but it's usually packed, and I love to shop quietly to hunt out the bargains. So I headed out to Charlotte Russe online to see what I could find, and I've listed my top picks for you.

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Sheer Top: Bow details at the neck are right on trend. Since shirting can be harder to pull off with fancy details at the neck, the sheer details make for a more forgiving overall effect.




Bubble Top in Grey


Bubble Top in Grey: Sick of all your a-tops in multi colors? This spaghetti-strapped top is just gorgeous, and its creative, new lines are just what you need to rev up your look. I can imagine this top with a cute skirt and boots, or a basic pair of jeans. It's so easy to dress up or down.




Floral Bouquet Top


Floral Bouquet Top: The ribbon strap detail on this piece is unexpected, and I love it! The bow is flirty, but a black-dominated floral has enough edge to carry the look along when you're out for drinks.




Sheer Polka Dot Top


Sheer Polka Dot Top: Can you tell that I love this look? I am such a fan of the neck bow, and the super-sweet dot details take the sweetness to a new level. Try this one with over-the-knee-boots and black skinnies to balance the cuteness level.




Sleeveless Tunic



Sleeveless Tunic: This lemony yellow tunic top is just right. Are you looking for something delicate but not bare? I vote for this top, for sure. Consider pairing this piece with a pastel scarf and long, dangly earrings.




I'm curious what you will find for yourself, so let me know. Charlotte Russe's website is very well-organized, which means that you'll be able to find exactly what you're looking for. Head straight to the dressy tops like I did, and then check out the simple casual tops afterwards if you need pieces for the gym! Have fun.

January 29, 2008

Great Dress Shapes for Spring

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1. Try Them Swingy:
Easy shapes are a cool and simple way to add comfort and style to a spring look. Embrace bodice tops that hug your midsection and flare out against your hips, like a sweet shift from bygone days.

Tip: You can modernize a look like this easily with the right current colors. This season, try unexpected pinks and a cool blue like the featured Stretch Bow Dress above by Jean Paul Galtier.

2. Get Feminine Slim Shapes: Do you feel uncomfortable when you wear slim-fitting dresses? One way to make you feel more at ease is to choose a dress with creative strap lines. Thicker straps allow for layering of shapewear or a comfy bra, so you’ll feel supported and confident when you’re out and about.

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3. Slip on Creative New Lines:
Look for pieces that push the boundaries. Are you the type who must wear a cardigan over her dress, or needs to for work? Consider a shaped jacket this spring, possibly in a cropped style to show off that waist! You can also go for slouchier shrugs with kimono or dolman sleeves if you like that look better.

Another option is simple layering for early spring. You can slip on a long-sleeved top under your dress, or buy it already layered for ease, like this Darimeya Layered Sleeve Circle Print Dress, above, from ASOS.com.

4. Find Cool Featured Elements:
Raw silk, painted-on flowers, and drawstring halter necklines are just new ways for you to explore fresh style this spring. From softer silhouettes to the ultra-modern, you’ll see that spring is here and very fashionable indeed.

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5. Pocket It:
Dresses with pockets may be unusual, but they’re oh-so-handy. When you slip your hands into roomy pockets that are easily filled with goodies, you’ll be giving yourself a treat—one more way to lighten the load on your purse!

The Vince Painte Brush Shift Dress, features deep, wide pockets that looks right at home. You can stuff your hands into your pockets as you sashay across the parking lot-- how novel--and perhaps even avoid carrying your usual clutch purse.

January 25, 2008

Jazz Up Your Work Gear with Ease

Do you have a new job? Are you looking for a way to dress up your current wardrobe and make it just right for spring? Thankfully, even in the most understated and professional work environments, you’ll find that there are ways to jazz up your look with simple accessories and smart styling elements.

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1. Choose unusually colored pearls. Pearls may be a common accessory at your place of work, but you can get pearls that are natural and irregularly-shaped, or tiny, clustered seed pearls instead. I personally like this unusual Louis Vuitton Two-Pearl Monogram Charm in Yellow Gold, which you'll have for years and years to come.


2. Splurge on statement heels. If there’s one place where you can find an opportunity for expression, it’s your heels. Even if you wear suits, be sure to find pumps and stilettos with interesting design details, even if they must be all black.


Prada Signature Tote
3. Toss on a tote. Do you have to carry a lot on our way into the office? Take this opportunity to grab a tote with some style, or at least decorate a basic black one with a tied-on scarf and a few brooches. The Prada Signature Tote has a soft shape, but in basic black, it blends in with anything you have in that closet.

4. Get good post-work shoes. If you must wear heels during the day, your arches can hurt terribly. If you like to slip on comfortable shoes when you left work, get a pair that looks great so you won’t need to change back when you do errands.

Mint Jodi Tank
5. Find white blouses with delicate details. There’s no reason why you can’t wear a blouse with fun, feminine details, especially if you cover it up with a blazer or a suit jacket all day. Find ruffled or lacy blouses that you actually enjoy wearing, and relish the opportunity to try something a little sexy under your work clothes. Mint Jodi Tanks from Shopbop are just one example of what you can wear underneath a blazer for work: they're simple, but add interest to an otherwise "blah" look.


6. Bank on the best lingerie. If you’re a lawyer or have a similarly restrictive job, wardrobe-wide, shop for lacey camisoles and garters to give you more confidence and add some bounce to your step. Stockings are the same—don’t wear pantyhose when you can wear something that’s three times as sexy and more comfortable.


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7. Hair tricks and tips. If your hair is longer, you probably tie it back into a bun or a French twist for work. Instead of using the same old tired hair combs, get ones that are slightly more ornate but still offered in “safe” work colors. This Jeweled hair Clip from Forever 21, shown, is a great compromise that's well within any budget.

January 18, 2008

Exploring YumDrop.com


If there's one thing I get excited about online, it's new places to pick up lingerie. And with a special day coming up. . . I get to shop double-time, right? Well, regardless of what I wish I could do, I do need some extra lingerie, and I shopped for it over at Yumdrop.com. Read on for my experience over there, and some top picks of my own.

Demi Cups and Designer Styling: Yumdrops offers one of the ebst selection of "designer-styled" pieces that I've found online. The Masquerade Bra and Thong Set features saucy lace and hot pink, much like Agent Provocateur, one of my fave primo lingerie lines. And it looks lovely, too.

Ribbons and Bows: I adore lacey lingeriem but it can get expensive, and fast. Instead of spending a ton on something like the Damaris line (which is gorgeous but $100 or more), I found a similar look over at YumDrop for $25-- for the whole set. I love the Butterfly Bra and Tanga Shorts.

Shiny, Shiny Bikinis: Bikinis have a great deal of bling, too. I was fascinated by the sexiest bikini I think I've ever seen, the Sequin Halter Top and Boyshorts, which somehow makes these bright details look devastatingly demure. (I think it's the bows.)

Retro Looks: Are you a '60s girl at heart? You have to check out the ruffled pieces and low-slung bikinis at YumDrop. I saw a gorgeous white suit with a tiny ruffled skirt, a deep Marilyn halter v-neck, and Hawaiian floral patterns, too.

Unexpected Naughty bits: Barely-there thongs? They've got those, too!


I rate YumDrop a very satisfied "9"! I just wish that they have more in my size. . . many of their items are offered in "combined" sizes like A/B cups and B/C. However, if you're an in-between size, this is perfect. Happy Shopping! You're going to have fun.

January 09, 2008

Top 5 Ways to Take Advantage of Sale-Time

You can save a lot on the sales right now, or you can save even more by shopping smart! Read on for a 5 tips on making the most of all the 50% percent off, buy-one-get-one, and free shipping deals we've been seeing online.


Make a list-- even before you shop online. While you might write an in-depth list before you go to the mall and hit the sales, online shopping can get a little more haphazard. Instead of randomly whizzing around the internet and hitting up sales as you find them, try to get a plan of attack to best take advantage of sales. Make a list of basics that you need to stock up on, like plain white a-shirts and t-shirts, jeans, and cute sneakers from pounding the pavement post-work.


Drop-Needle Hoodie

(Old Navy's Drop-Needle Hoodie, $14.70, was one basic that I needed to get, and it was on sale!)

Eschew seasonality. While buying things out of season is a perfect way to save, it can be also be a way to restrict your attire to half the year. Who wants to switch their entire closet back and forth as the weather changes, when you can keep a closet of essentials year round, and save on them, too? Look for medium-weight trousers in cotton or a natural blend, cotton wrap tops, and slip-on shoes that you can wear any time with the right accessories.


Tip: Aim for colors like navy, cream, green, medium blue, and some reds for a “season neutral” appeal.


Cotton Leaf-Print Scarf

(This Cotton Leaf-Print Scarf, $38, from Banana Republic, is a fresh piece that can be worn year-round.)

Know your size in the brand you're buying. This is often overlooked, but it's super important. When you're taking advantage of major sales and the like, you'll find that return and exchange rules can differ pretty significantly and might not allow you to exchange your deeply discounted pieces with ease. As boring as it can be for hardcore internet shoppers, get yourself to a department store, mall, or an outlet shop to note how each brand fits before you buy. If you've ever ordered Calvin Klein lingerie, you'll know what I mean!


Buy out of season for the basics. Yes-- I know I told you to ignore seasonal pieces, but if you live in the Northeast, travel to Europe, or spend time in the Caribbean, you know that you'll need a few pairs of Bermuda shorts, a fuzzy cashmere scarf, or a pair of snowboots. If you can possibly buy out of season, you will save. My tip? If you have trouble shopping for summer things in the winter, or vice versa, aim to buy pieces for next year at the end of each season when they go on sale.


Don't get frantic. There are so many sales to take advantage of, and there's no need to get everything in one day. Shop around and compare to find the right deal for you.


Meieli Sawyer Detoni

January 06, 2008

Why Bluefly Can Round Out Your Closet in a Flash

Bluefly caught my eye ever since they started doing their “Get the Look” features from our very favorite show Project Runway, but I feel like I've been heading to them more and more when I'm stocking up on basics. From piles of soft cashmere to the best of premium denim, Bluefly always strikes me as the ultimate budget luxury-hunter's favorite hangout.

Not sold on Bluefly just yet? Here's what they're got on their quite tempting racks at the moment:

1. Veritable Piles of Little Black Dresses: They're not just for the business woman or the strict fashionista in you, either, because there are so many silhouettes available that they'd fit every woman, from the sexy secretary straight up to the socialite in us all.

Top Picks

A.B.S. Black Satin Ruffle Detail Strapless Dress



A.B.S. Black Satin Ruffle Detail Strapless Dress: Loose and roomy without being dumpy. . . this effect is surprisingly achieved with oversized, contrasting satin flowers that delicately decorate the bust line. Best accessorized with bare legs, sky-high pumps, and a devil-may-care attitude. Oh, and a chunky bracelet.



Alexia Admor Black Sequined Trapeze Dress



Alexia Admor Black Sequined Trapeze Dress: Sequins make the party, every time, even if it's in an easy shape. Opaque tights would be a welcome addition to this saucy number.




2. Cold-Weather Peas: Need a quick pick-me-up now that we've made it halfway through the winter? Or just an accessory? I couldn't believe what I found over at Bluefly in terms of different coat weights, which including heavier wool sashed pieces and fun capes. California, Vermont, London, whatever: they've got you covered.



3. Premium Denim: Who doesn't want more denim? If you need a pair of new going-out jeans, I suggest diving into brands like Joe's Jeans, Hudson, and Raven for a fit that works on you. Modern shapes and a variety of washes spell one thing: s-t-y-l-e! From light grey denim to deep blue, you can minimize the worst and maximize the best in your fabulously budgeted selections.

Top Picks


Sass & Bide



1. Sass & Bide "Strayed Misfits" Stretch Slim Tapered Jeans: Regardless of how you wear these ones, there's no denying their rock-star appeal. Dress them up with simple ankle boots to go completely casual with your seen-better-days Converse.



Lotta Stensson Black Wool Palazzo Pants



2. Lotta Stensson Black Wool Palazzo Pants: Pair these lovelies with your favorite wrap sweater and round-toed shoes to look totally charming on your days off. These slightly unusual trousers have an interestingly feminine look.


And there's another reason that I love Bluefly-- amazing, strike-now deals. If you've got a craving to shop and you need an excuse, this site is your savior. Discounts (of 50% or more, I might add) often expire in a day or two, and you'll need to take advantage right away if want to save. Wheee!

October 22, 2007

Using Coupons to Your Advantage

It probably comes to no surprise that I adore coupons. Before I buy anything, I search for sales and neat discount codes, and then I compare for the best results. When I’m buying something that I don’t really need (like seasonal extras and fun lingerie), I like to save, and save as much as I possibly can.

Although retail stores have started to ban some coupons (and using coupons in conjunction with one another), online coupons will give you the edge to keep saving lots on pieces that you really want.

Tips for Using Online Discounts for Fun, Frivolous Stuff

*Don’t forget to look for coupons just for the heck of it! If you need new things for the upcoming season but you’ve got several purchasing options, just surf sites and shops until something strikes your fancy. There are things that you’ll always need, like bra and panty sets (amazingly cute ones, of course), outerwear, and jeans.

*Consider more than just your “target shop.” When I’m looking for discounts on trendy seasonal items, I guide myself by savings. Accessories and super-trendy items can be found in a variety of online shops (like Delias, Bluefly, and Fashion Bug) and you’ll be able to pick and choose to save the most.

*Don’t forget to combine online savings! Combine a coupon with a sale item to save more. You may find that certain deals work better for specific items, such as buying heavier items on sale and using a free shipping code instead of getting an additional percentage off. Always do the math before you commit to the purchase.

*Use your coupon searches to your advantage off the web, too. I always find printable coupons for chain stores that I usually never shop at online (like electronic stores, for example). I found a great coupon for Best Buy online, and I saved $20 for my printer/scanner.

*Use seasonal shopping techniques online. Right now there are great sales as the merchandise switches over to fall styles, and you can save a lot. Lane Bryant, for example, is having a buy-one-get-one-half-off sale that would be great combined with a shipping discount code for more savings.

*Remember that before you splurge, you'll need to keep in mind that some items are not returnable, like lingerie and swimsuits. Keep your budget in mind and always, always check the size charts before you make your purchase!

by Meieli Sawyer Detoni

May 19, 2007

Oh Yeah, Online Bargains

Oh yeah, the wonderful, world wide web…so useful…so full of information—so much information that is almost impossible to find exactly what you are shopping for at the time. Not to mention, many shopping sites are so hard to navigate that it makes purchasing those items ridiculously hard. But don’t throw away those online coupons just yet, right now I’m going to key you in on the best online shopping sites which offer excellent customer service, user-friendly navigation, reasonable shipping and of course, a great return policy.

Ok my shopaholics; let’s start with the best deals which you can find on sites like, of course couponwinner.com, and nextag.com. These sites search multiple places which give you the best deals and prices at various stores; therefore you don’t have to waste your time window shopping and more importantly your gas. Of course the coupon winner site is a great way to get comparisons and they keep up with current promotional codes so you can always get the best deals.

Moving on to clothing. If you are spending all your time on eBay and Amazon, you’re missing some great deals at smaller sites like landsend.com and the upscale bluefly.com. At landsend.com you definitely have to check out their overstock selection and have a shopping ball on their deep, deep, discounts on women’s, men’s and children’s clothing. But if you’re a designer freak then bluefly.com is the place to be. With a very impressive $7.95 flat shipping fee per order, go ahead and fill that online buggy up with Gucci, Chanel, Vera Wang, Nine West and many others.

A woman can never have too many shoes, so type up shoebuy.com and get 10% off your first purchase just for registering. Now if that’s not good enough, remember, if you find the item later cheaper any where else, they will refund your money 110%...how cool is that? The next place I have mentioned several times before in previous articles because of their great deals which is zappos.com. But have I ever mentioned their excellent 24 hour service? Plus, people who have purchased the shoes you are looking at will rate the shoes allowing you to see if they hurt, or what…good deal.

So go ahead and find your way to these sites and if you want tell them I sent you. However, it really wouldn’t mater, make a difference, nor will they care. Because in actuality, these great discounts are for everyone, from the average Joe to the superstars...so go shop and enjoy.

by Tiffany J. Prewitt

February 12, 2007

Great Bedding for Less

Don't we all love bedding that feels luxurious? We all love sheets, blankets, pillows and comforters that make us want to snuggle into bed and enjoy the feeling of luxury. We want sheets that have a high thread count and are made of fine cotton. We want blankets that are soft, warm and continue to look nice over time. Of course, going to bed without pillows that are perfect is impossible. In short, we want a bed that makes it easy to fall asleep and dream happy thoughts. However, most of the time, this kind of luxury comes with a price tag that can be steep.

How do you find bedding that has all the luxury you want but without the high cost? One of the best places to find that luxury bedding without the cost is to go to www.overstock.com. This site is always featuring great bedding options for both children's bedding and adult bedding, and the prices are often just short of unbelievable. In addition, you can read reviews of bedding products of other customers who have purchased the same thing, so you can know if it is something that is going to be right for you.

Another great way to get affordable, high end bedding is to utilize online coupon codes. Many online stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond offer great deals on bedding, and when you combine those great deals with an online coupon code, you get an even better deal. Online coupon codes save you so much money. You can find ones that will let you get free shipping, or a percentage off your purchase, sometimes as much as 30%. Buying anything online without checking our site to see if there is a current coupon code is just not being the smartest shopper you can be.

Give in to your heart's desire to have bedding that will make you feel like royalty. But do it on your budget. Check out discount sites and use coupon codes. Be a smart shopper and get busy making your bed the wonderful haven it should be!

by Christena Palmer

January 02, 2007

How to Maximize Your Shopping Style: Get the Best Bargains in the Least Time

Whether you are a careful shopper or one who purchases with abandon, perhaps you're looking for a way to get good deals with less hassle. Check out your shopping style and follow our tips!

Impulsive Eva
Okay, impulsive shoppers don't have any problem saving time, but if you'd like to be a tiny bit more discerning, consider these:

Browse specials
Check the home page of your favorite sites to find daily deals for a pain-free impulse buy. You can get free shipping and complementary gifts with just a smidgen of effort, like on Nordstrom and Liz Claiborne.
Check complementary or personalized items
If you've found an item which is almost just right, look at your nearby options. Lots of sites like Amazon list similar or related items on the same page that may complete your shopping spree quickly.

Stick to Your Budget
Find your dream boots and then get on discount sites (Bluefly, Yoox, or Shopbop) to find the same designer pair at lower prices.

Careful Kathleen
If you like to compare all possible deals, you can still save time:

Head for clearance
Check out the sale pages exclusively on some of your favorite sites to avoid temptation and wasted time. Gap has extensive sale pages for basics, and Alloy offers super discounted prices in their sale section.
Don't dilly-dally
If Ebay is more your thing, try to minimize the amount of time you spend watching items. Head to Buy It Now to find surprising deals.

by Meieli Sawyer Detoni

January 01, 2007

Good Deals with Online Coupons

We have all heard of online coupons. If you haven't, you have obviously been living in a very secluded cave somewhere with no internet access. With the ever-growing popularity of online shopping, it is only inevitable that web coupons for every site imaginable would follow.

What exactly is an online web coupon? Basically, it is coupon code that gives you access to special savings deals at your favorite online stores. Providing various coupon codes that expire after a certain amount of time is something that nearly every single site does, especially the big ones that everyone knows. However, even some of the smaller sites have realized that free shipping coupons, coupons that allow you to deduct a percentage like 20% to as much as 50% from your orders, and deals on overstock or end of season items are big draws for the online shopping crowd.

For instance, perhaps you are looking to find yourself a nice laptop. If you access a site such as ours, you can find Dell coupons, HP coupons and many other. Best of all, many of these sites offer several different coupon codes, so that if you are looking to upgrade to the newest desktop model or you want to find a nice price on a laptop for your college student, there is probably a coupon code that will allow you to net some savings from doing your shopping online.

Online coupons can be found in all shapes and sizes. So if you want Overstock coupons, Toys R Us coupons or everything in between, visit our site today! I always check for online coupon codes before hitting submit for any order I have placed, just in case there is one that will fit my order. I have saved a ton of money this way! Even if you don't see one advertised on the site you are shopping at, check out online coupon code possibilities with us! It can really pay off, especially if it is one of those sweet deals for free shipping!

by Christena Palmer

December 28, 2006

How to be a World-Class Bargain Hunter

There's nothing quite as exciting as buying something really stylish and trendy. That is except buying something really stylish, trendy, and dirt-cheap.

It took several years of honing my bargain hunting skills, but I've developed a few surefire ways to always pay ridiculously below retail. And it's time to spread the shopping gospel.

All you'll need is a computer, some patience and persistence, and a handful of chump change to pay for your new acquisitions.

-Tip #1: Get out of the malls. If you're paying retail, you're paying too much. Hop to your computer and start shopping online. It's where the savings are, so it's where you should be.

-Tip #2: Now you just need to know where to look online. If you're addicted to movies or books, the only way to go is www.amazon.com or www.ebay.com. If you're leaning toward Amazon, always remember to follow the "used" link. It will take you to the Marketplace where individuals are selling their stuff at unbelievably cheap prices. Some books are 1 penny (plus shipping)!

If clothes, shoes, and purses are your addiction of choice, I never look farther than www.craigslist.com. This is where patience and persistence come in. You'll have to check this site often, because people move fast on good deals. You'll probably also have to wait for somebody to unload their really good stuff at great prices. But trust me, eventually the post will come. My closet is full of authentic designer names-Bebe, Abercrombie, Coach, Fendi-and I've never paid more than $10 for any item.

-Tip #3: The best way to score a fantastic deal is to buy multiple items. On Craigslist, people will almost always cut you a deal if you buy more than one thing. And don't be afraid to haggle. Consider asking prices a starting point. Test the waters, and see if they're willing to go any lower. If not, no harm in asking.

-Tip #4: Scout out your local consignment shops and thrift stores. Again, you're going to need a lot of patience to weed through the tacky stuff, but eventually you'll stumble on some great, designer names. Also, when browsing these second-hand stores, make sure you're actually getting a good deal. Sometimes prices are surprisingly high, and the items can be damaged. Make sure to give them a thorough once-over for stains, rips, or abnormalities.

-Tip #5: The tendency is to buy too much at these places, because it all seems so cheap. This leads to a lot of unworn, unused items and wasted money. Make sure you keep yourself in check so as not to spend too much, or all that bargain hunting was for nothing. Make sure you really want what you're buying and make sure it's in great condition before you hand over any of your hard-earned cash.

Now go forth and save-and happy bargain hunting!

by Liz Herrin

December 22, 2006

Think Like the Rich