Shopping Bag Hags by CouponWinner.com

Are You Frugal or Cheap? Your Fashion Version!

Do you have a thrifty side? We suspect that you do, if you are here in the first place. While getting deals is great, some of us take bargain hunting to another level--and still others give deal-searchers a bad name by being fairly cheap. Which camp are you in?

When you buy clothes, do you stick to brand names?

 
If you stick to brand names only, no matter what the price, then you’re certainly not cheap--but you should really start going to the sales to get your best price! Frugal fashion isn’t easy, but the ideal mix in your closet should be something like 50-50 or 70-30 with brand names and no-names (like vintage and basics), if only to allow you some opportunities for getting the big-time deals.

Would you ever try to push a coupon through if it’s not good?

 
Let’s say you’re in a brick-and-mortar store, and you have an amazing coupon that expired yesterday... do you try to use it, or do you toss it? One of the signs of crossing the frugal line and venturing into the world of cheap is when you try to abuse your deal-hunting powers. Don’t! When you abuse a coupon, other people do it, too--and that means that you won’t be able to find good deals in the future.

How far will you go for a deal?

Let’s say that you are looking for a new satchel, but in order to get the best-priced one, you’ll have to drive 10 miles out of your way OR interrupt your work schedule in the middle of the day to get a limited-release coupon via Facebook. Do you still grab your coupon even though you have to change your schedule, or is it worth it, no matter what?

Do you build your wardrobe around deals?

If you like to work out your seasonal wardrobe depending on what you got on offer this time, you are a star student of frugality. Those who have to pass up affordable looks due to serious personal style constraints are more rigid in their ways, but a real frugal diva gives herself the wiggle room she needs to cultivate the most inexpensive, stylish look. Someone who’s cheap might forgo any investment pieces and buy one-season-one items for the lowest possible price, but a frugal woman is wise with her budget and her ever-changing look.


Are you frugal, or are you cheap?

Is Regifting Appropriate?

A lot of people get gifts that they don't want, and that's where regifting started. Do you hate getting presents that you suspect were given to someone else first, or is it really the thought that counts? One market research company surveyed an adult panel and found out that 78 percent of adults think that regifting, within reason, is acceptable.

 

Ask yourself these questions:

What is the condition of my re-giftable item? Do not regift anything that has damaged corners, scratched plastic wrap, or faded wrapping. If it has any questionable aspects, avoid! A present that has been damaged slightly can be placed in a new gift bag or box.

Is this within the taste of the recipient? Don't give a peanut brittle sampler to someone with a nut allergy, from example! If you know that someone has sparing taste, and you have something extravagant that you don't want, consider switching presents, or saving your regiftable item for someone else.

Who has seen or knows about the original gift? It seems obvious, but if you don't think about giving a present to someone outside of the original circle, you can commit a terrible faux-pas. If you give a present given by a family member to someone at work, you'll probably be safe, though!

Is this present even regiftable? A handmade or one-of-a-kind item really shouldn't be regifted, despite the temptation when you get something odd. Don't gift something just to gift it: a present should be from the heart, and not from someone else's.

Can you give the gift to a charity instead? Don't forget that unused presents, especially toys, clothes, and housewares, can be given to a charity. While you need to be conscious about quality and condition, you don't need to stress about giving a present that won't suit a friend or family member.

 

Here are some additional tips about regifting:

1. Start with new packaging, to avoid giving a gift card that was tucked into tissue paper.

2. Make sure that you regift a nice item, not something that was questionable in the first place.

3. Don't mix up regifted, new pieces and slightly-used hand-me-downs. One is acceptable, and the other is rude!

4. Allow heirloom regifting within your family.

 

Do you regift?

Where To Find Deals After January

While we might not be able to ignore the current financial climate, we can take advantage of some incredible deals and keep our lives well-balanced and as full as they were before things started to get rough. From vacations to new working clothes, we can still afford it, wear it, and smile. Sounds like a good first month of 2009 to me!

(Max and Cleo Ruffle Sleeve)

1. Macy's Deals: Macy's is currently closing 11 stores, citing poor performance. With new stores being planned already, all is not lost, so take advantage of liquidation sales near you if you can.

Closing Locations

Ernst & Young Plaza (Citicorp Plaza), L.A.

The Citadel, Colorado Springs, CO

Westminster Mall, Westminster, CO

Palm Mall, West Palm Beach, FL

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, Island of Hawaii, HI

Lafayette Square, Indianapolis, IN

Brookdale Center, Brooklyn Center, MN

Crestwood Mall, St. Louis, MO

Natrona Heights Plaza, Natrona Heights, PA

Century III Furniture and Clearance, West Mifflin, PA

Bellevue Center, Nashville, TN

Head into the stores if you can, but if you're not located near a closing Macys's, they are supposed to be selling their online stock at a great discount. Macy's is a great stop for work clothes and going-out pieces, as well as special occasion items. Perhaps the wedding-bound can pick up a great bridesmaid or mother-of-the-bride dress.

(100 Years of Fashion Illustration)

2. Amazon.com: This online retailer reported some impressive numbers this year, including the best holidays sales ever. If you want to buy something on a discount and you are looking for a specific deal, you can find it at Amazon. Be sure to hunt for shipping deals at Coupon Winner here first.

(Kate Spade Kashmir Esti)

3. Kate Spade (75% Off): Kate Spade has carefully-designed purses that never go out of style. If you love classic pieces in some really sweet colors, they are currently offering discounted pieces up to 75% off. Did I also mention that offer shoes?

(Beautiful People Striped Cardigan Tee)

4. Active Endeavors: They've got featured brands from brands like Beautiful People (pictured) C & C California, Charlotte Russe, and more-- all at 60% off right now.

My favorite deal? Vest with back tie, $16 marked down from $40

(Watercolor Print Cardi)

5. Martin and Osa (Free Shipping & 25% Off Extra): An excellent deal is available from this website, which features tons of internet buys of a higher quality.

Expect to Pick Up the Following:

* Chino skirts in shapely cuts

* Cable knit ponchos and silky shawls

* Slimline cardis like the one pictured above, in solid colors

* Subtle stripes and patterns

6. Air Travel: Discounts are also great after the holidays. Expedia has amazing deals to St. Lucia (40% off), while you can also book a farther-away expedition for a song like Kuoni. Book a hotel for a supreme discount and save on rooms, too, or look for cheaper stays in luxury Europe.

Dressing Up for New Years

(Angie Halter Dress with Sequins, Black Denim Tie Back)

1. Sparkles: Sparkles are sexy and easy to pull off, and you can find something easy in a variety of different styles to suit your personal look. If guady gold doesn't do the trick for you, there's always something more understand like this metallic-trimmed dress that I found at Macy's (and am certainly going to buy).

2. All Black: It's classic, and it lasts a long time in that closet. While black might not be the most exciting choice, the above black denim tie-back combines casual fabric with a formal silhouette. Definitely recommended for the comfort junkies among us.

3. Trend Supreme: Looking super trendy is often best suited for those special occasions, and it's NYE one of the best excuses in the book? You can choose a great dress and then wear it through the New Year looking awesome. I don't recommend buying one in a size too small to motivate you, although there's nothing wrong with cooking up a good workout routine.

4. Metallics: Metallics are a good selection, and a lot safer than you would think. Besides the usual choices-- bags, shoes, and accessories like hair bands-- you can also play it safe with jewelry like gold lockets, bangles, bracelets, and more.

5. Jeweled Flats: Choose a festive pair of NYE shoes that spell more than just P-A-R-T-Y. Get ones with the tiniest accent on them, like a small silver bead or a slim ornament, and don't forget to find plenty of parties to wear them to after the big night!

6. Chain Necklaces: Moving on from metallics, I want to concentrate on plain gold chains for a while. They are super versatile, perfect for easy accessorization, and for using your charms like lockets.

7. Sashed Frocks: Sahes make you look like you've already started to loose that New Year resolutions weight. It's not all about baggy dresses, and here's why a sashed dress will work perfectly: your bust is defined, your hips look smaller in comparison, and you can wear a pair of knee-high boots without looked weighed down.

Taking Advantage of Discount and Department Stores

(Mossimo Stretch White Tee, Target)
1. The White Tee
We can never have enough white t-shirts! If you wear yours underneath your blousy tops, simple tunics, and your cardis like me, I recommend heading to Walmart or Target to pick them out. If you choose the budget version, you're saving money, looking better (by replacing them more often), and still be able to take your pick between tanks, v-necks, crewnecks, and more.

(Fruit of the Loom Striped Panties, Walmart)
2. Novelty Undies
You've got to be able to giggle about something during your workweek, and wearing a "Hottie" boyshort set in hot pink beanth your corporate suit will certainly do it. Consider lacey and frilly bits for a little jolt of color underneath your most staid suits, as well as cami tops to wear underneath sheer chiffon tops that are so in for spring.

(Xhilaration Terry Robe, Target)
3. Soft Robes
Do you love to shuffle around the house in a robe? Me too! I'm always looking for new cozy robes to wrap around me, and you can always pick up hooded robes and extra-long wrap-arounds.

(George Firm Support Hose, Walmart)
4. Hosiery
I am obsessed with those little sock/hosiery packs from Walmart. You can pick up these fantastic multicolored socklets in plastic "bubble gum" domes, and they're great for wearing underneath your flats and heels when your heavy knee-highs won't cut it under your work trousers anymore. I always stock up on emergency pantyhose, too.

(Cubic Zirconia Earrings, Target)
5. "Diamond" Earrings
Department and discount stores give you plenty of opportunities to stock up on rhinestone and cubic zirconia lookalikes. You can jazz up a going-out ensemble very easily with some elegant studs that are totally worth it. A high-quality pair in an equally high-quality setting can truly jazz up a beautiful dress.

(c9 by Champion Yoga Pants, Target)
6. Workout Gear
Simple workout gear can be had at your local Target to save you quite a bit. I am always breezing into places like Nike and Adidas and then getting shocked by the prices. If you're a bargain hunter like me, you should consider shopping at your local Target to get some stylish workout gear by Champion. I was definitely pleased with the yoga pants I found above!

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Top Teen Shopping Picks for the Week

I have a passion for teen clothes. Even though I'm past the point of bright short-shorts and spaghetti-strapped tank tops, I do love to buy them for others. And point everyone in the direction of great pieces! If you need a few ideas when shopping with a teen or if you are heading out for spring break vacation, you should take a look at some basic tops I hunted out at Wet Seal, with both "Dressing Up" and "Dressing Up" options for each!

My favorite tops this season are bright and fun. I love the extra patterns like checks, plaids, and even a little extra embroidery. With a simple skirt, your designs pop, and with something more refined, these bargain-rate pieces look a lot more costly. Take a look at what I've found for you.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Surplus Plaid Babydoll Top, $15.50

The Plaid Babydoll Top from Wetseal is as stylish as it is affordable. It has a cool country flair but somehow manages to be at home with both denim and linen. Simple lines best complement this busy piece, so dig up some short shorts or a mini.

Dress It Up

Linen High Waist Shorts

These high-waisted shorts give your top a very blousy effect, which looks very cute with strappy sandals and an anklet! If you're the bikini type, this top works well with string types as well as your basic halters in plain coordinating colors.

Dress It Down

Perry Solid Short

Simple, fun shorts get you an "A+" every single time! Don't be afraid to push the envelope with some awesomely cool (and tiny) shorts that beg to be slipped on for pool lounging and couch lounging, too.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Striped Bra Cup Cami, $15.50 How I adore this striped piece! If you're looking for something to maximize that bust or something to show off a little pre- spring break bronzing, I recommend this find from Wet Seal. It even has lightly padded bra cups for that extra boost!


Dress It Up

Satin Trim Trousers

There's no reason why something colorful shouldn't be paired with something very chic. You'll highlight the rainbow of colors in your top, while making it look like a little more refined. Perfect for hot nights out on spring break or layered underneath a wrap cardigan for work, with just the hem showing for a splash of color.

Dress It Down

Julie Skinny Jean

These jeans are basic and easy. Pull them on with flip flops on a day after the fun when you need to wing down. They're shapely but with a touch of stretch for ease.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Embroidered Two-Pocket Tank Top, $22.50

Why not choose a top that's a little on the crunchy side this spring? This blue tank top comes encrusted with decorative designs and spells "F.U.N." It's definitely layering-worthy as well.


Dress It Up

High Waist Mini Thought that this top had a hippie vibe? Not anymore! You've joined the international jet-set crowd when you combine a bright white, trendy skirt with this soft pastel piece. Consider wearing it with a silk scarf, too.


Dress It Down

Brooklyn Bright Mini Rainbow bright, indeed! This skirt provides a welcome juxtaposition to your usual softer pastel wardrobe for springs. Take this top in another direction and see how things go.

Meieli Sawyer Detoni

Shopbop.com for Spring Trends

Shopbop.com has got some great new spring selections in! All of these blue-green colors are looking oh-so-tempting right now, and when I went over there to do a little late-night shopping, I found pieces to fit in with every spring trend under the sun. You'll be very impressed, too-- check out what's current over at Shopbop.com.

When shopping for trends, you can get overwhelmed with what's "in" if you concentrate on separate pieces. Instead of getting bogged down with random jackets and dresses, try to find pieces that you can easily mix in with your current wardrobe, such as tunics that you can pair with jeans or dresses than stand alone with all your favorite pumps.

Bohemian Style

This Yaya Aflalo dress is not for those of us who are afraid of bright colors like pink and purple. You'll be feeling like the star of the show in this vibrant piece, even with a Bohemian vibe that helps set you apart. Solid satin banding is perfect for women with a tiny waist and a bust that they'd like to highlight.

Is sweet and simple more your thing? I fell in love with this Kathleen Tunic from Young Fabulous & Broke. Subtle tie-dye spots go undercover across a crisp white canvas with just a sprinkle of lemon yellow at the upper yoke.

Retro Tones

These DAVIS by Ruthie Davis Ford Peep Toe Pumps fit the spring '70s trend so well. They're high--just right for a miniskirt come nighttime--and they've got a chrome metal two-tone detail that's as unusual as it is stylish. A new must-have.

A Rock n Roll Vest from LaROK is totally tempting. I'd love to see it paired with the non-trad version-- a skirt and a cute top instead of the usual trousers. But you know what else I'd like to see? This vest with a pair of tuxedo trousers. . . uh oh! Maybe I'll need to get two.

Feminine and Romantic Versions

The Diane von Furstenberg Saffy Top is a deliciously feminine confection that you'll fall in love with for spring. I love it when trendy pieces are so attractive and cute. Shopping just gets so much easier. . . I'd wear this with light-colored blue jeans and strappy sandals.

This <Alice and Olivia Pleated Sleeveless Dress might be the last on my list, but it wil just get you started on a Spring/Summer trend search that might lead you to similar sources like Pink Mascara and more. Have a great time getting yourself kitted out for spring. ;)

Dereon Dresses Things Up

I went over to Dereon on one of my usual clothes shopping sprees, and I was surprised at what I found- new pieces with an extra bit of style, and in plus sizes, too! If you wear a larger size jeans or tops, you won't need to go to another location just to find a full-figured option--it's all right there. I like larger tops that a roomy, swingier shape, and those can be found at Dereon along with skinny jeans and low-cut trousers.

But you know what really helped me out over there? Their featured Style Mixer. If you're looking for a way to mix and match cool pieces that you've run into over at Dereon, you can slide the Collection button to find full looks and reduce your personal coordination time.

Dereon Jeans: My Top Pick
My favorite jeans surprised me over at Dereon: I ended up adoring the Heavy Metal pair despite my usually classic style. With stitching and charm details, they're certainly not for the faint-of-heart, but they're just what you need when you're having one of those I-need-a-makeover-and-fast kind of days. It has silver stitching along the rear and above the pockets, as well as some heavy metal accessories that are interesting and tastefully added.

Tip: Imagine this with a black smock top complete with sash as well as killer heels.

Amazing Blouse Alert!
Are you on the search for your best feature-- or your skinniest? This Gold Rope Top hows off a peek of skin on the side, under your bust, for an unusual little view that's both sexy and unexpected. It's available in both white and pink--I'm partial to the white myself for matching purposes.

Featured Design: Band Fresh Hoody
I was surprised at the design elements going on with this Dereon sweat top. It's certainly unlike any of my other gym pieces, and it could make for a great present for teens, too.

Metallic elements jazz up an already cool sweatshirt that has logo engraved buttons and a peplum flounce. If pink isn't your style, you can try black instead. I can even imagine this top with a comfy woolen skirt.

Plus Piece: Jumpsuits!
I can't say that I've seen many jumpsuits designed for full-figured women, but I like that we have that option, thanks to Dereon's Ds Zipper Chain Jumpsuit. A hood and a square neckline frame your face-- and you can't beat a kangaroo pocket with Lurex details.

Let me know what you find over at Dereon. These may be my top picks, but I'd love to know what catches your eye.

Great Dress Shapes for Spring

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.

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.

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.