Shopping Bag Hags by CouponWinner.com

5 Reasons to Use Coupon Codes

Are you addicted to coupon codes? In love with deals? Even if you're not, how about you check out this handy list of all the reasons you should be using coupon codes every time! It's easy, and that's probably why you're here in the first place, so check it out!

1. Coupon codes can often be stacked, which means that you will be able to save a significant amount in just a few smart steps. You can often get free shopping, a percentage off, and a dollar amount off the same purchase at Old Navy, and Victoria's Secret has multiple spaces available where you can type in your codes. JCPenney is one of the trickier ones, where I have seen only one space for a gift code available. Use the best one, of course, but sometimes it helps to call customer service and ask what coupon codes are stackable, if any.

2. Even a small coupon code can save you so much on things you wouldn't normally expect to have a discount on. It's a little off-topic, but for example, I've found truck rental coupon codes for 40% off the daily price (Budget Truck), and those were not the first codes that came up. Be persistent, and don't give up when it comes to claiming your deals! Bookmark anything good that comes along, too, because sometimes you'll lose track of all the deals you find. I usually open up an Excel spreadsheet if I'll be making major purchases with coupon codes, so I can compare things easily. Just remember—you can find coupon codes for just about anything, anywhere.

3. You'll get more power as a consumer. I'm pretty sure I'm not alone when I say that I feel used and abused by my credit card company, my utilities provider, and sometimes even the local retailers. To avoid disappointments, you've got to be a shrewd consumer, so don't be embarrassed when you're stacking coupon codes with the best of them. The best thing about the internet is that you can hide a bit behind the screen, so if your coupon code gets rejected, you can try all over again with another one—on your own time. Claim your time and money by using coupon codes to their fullest.

4. Play a stylish game. With savings on anything from shoes to bras to special sportswear and beyond, you'll be pleased with what you find online when it comes to deals and savings. By shopping for generic items like socks wherever there's a free shipping code or free in-store delivery, you won't waste any money with shipping, either. Unless it's a “must have now” item, you're best off shopping online and saving.

5. Are you looking for the best deals? Don't forget to check for upcoming sales and clearance offerings to maximize your discounts. Many codes that help you save a certain dollar amount are perfectly fine to use with a coupon code, and you'll buy more for less.

Accessories for Summer: What I'll Be Wearing

Have a peek into my pretend closet this summer!

Chunky Geometrics

(Tribal Leaf Rope Necklace)

Toss on some bold baubles and call me a fashionista! While we all want to hop on the fashion trend that makes us look lovely and possibly makes our skin look amazing as well, baby steps would be buying a great cuff, bib necklace, or a nice set of bangles encrusted with semi-precious jewels.

Fun Flowers

Every summer, I crave wearing fresh flowers in my hair, but for sake of style and budget, that's probably not going to happen. I'm thinking that an enameled flower pin will add enough style to get me through the summer, but since it won't wilt, it will probably make appearances after that!

Bright Earrings

(Bright Blue Earrings)

Time on the beach, in the sand and surf, and hanging out at summer cafes just requires bright, bold colors, cool designs, and nice, unusual details that stand out to the casual observer. With a ton of summer blacks in the closet in designs like wrap dresses, shifts, a-lines, and more, we need to grab items that stand out on their own, and complement choices like hats and sandals in more simple designs. Sign me up! I think I'll be zipping over to Forever 21 for a look at thecheapie stuff, because it's easily replaceable and great for the budget. You might like to check out Charlotte Russe and Urban Outfitters for similar styles as well.

Bibs and More

As unappetizing as a "bib necklace" sounds, it's one of the top trends of the season. If you are unable to take your pick of multiple accessories this season and need to get a single item, make it a bib necklace! They are not particularly challenging to wear, as long as you are content with layering, and they work well with brief summer designs.

Straw Hats

(Burnished Straw Hat)

This classic selection will last for seasons upon seasons, making it an amazing choice for the shopper with very little. Your straw hat can be worn out in a resort town just as soon as it can be worn on the beach, and you know all those chiffon dresses you have hanging up waiting for the right accessory? Here's your chance to pick something out that's sure to match.

Versatile Accessories

Can't decide what to wear? Why not pick something with a simple shape, like a plastic or enameled choker or a lucite cuff? You can't go wrong with a choice like this.

Fashion Quote Fun!

If you're looking for some affirming quotes about beauty and fashion, you've come to the right place! We take a look at fun quotes from around the globe on the subject of beauty, love, life, sex, and more. My personal favorite? Joan Rivers! What about you?

"The average woman would rather have beauty than brains, because the average man can see better than he can think. -Anonymous"

"If you're considered a beauty, it's hard to be accepted doing anything but standing around. -Cybil Sheppard"

Some important model-related books are a good way to combat that kind of thinking. One example is Kimora Lee Simmons' book Fabulosity: What It Is and How to Get It, which discusses how to get that style that's virtually inimitable.

"Beauty Parlor: A place where women curl up and dye -Aiken Drum"

"Beauty is all very well at first sight; but who ever looks at it when it has been in the house three days? -George Bernard Shaw"

"Beauty is only skin deep, but it's a valuable asset if you're poor or haven't any sense. -Kin Hubbard"

This quote might be pretty serious, but beauty can give you a boost when you need it. By slicking on some lip gloss or carefully applying a little blush, you'll find that you feel bouncier and more energetic when you catch a glimpse of yourself walking by.

"The problem with beauty is that it's like being born rich and getting poorer. -Joan Collins"

"I wish I had a twin so I can see how I look like without plastic surgery. -Joan Rivers"

Joan's statement brings up an important point: no matter how much you want to change something about yourself, you've got to be careful about exactly what you change (permanently that is). Start simple!

"Beauty is an outward gift which is seldom despised, except by those to whom it has been refused. -Edward Gibbon"

"Compliments invite the person who is complimented to embrace a new perception of him or herself. And just as layers and layers of nacre form a pearl over an irritating grain of sand, so compliments collect around us, developing us in all our beauty. -Daphne RoseKingma"

That last quote is so important for beauty lovers everywhere. No matter how you feel about your body, your face, your sense of style, or your hair, the way other people see you will surprise you--and shock you, too! Hold onto these compliments, and hold them dear.

2009 Shopping Resolutions

I'm sharing my list of shopping resolutions with you in hopes that we'll all try to be more financially responsible. . . and still look really cute, too! 

(Via Spiga Quinn Shoes)

1. Make a Shopping Budget: Decide how much you want to spend on clothes, and stick to it! Decide what you need every season and try to break things up in a couple of monthly purchases. That way, you won't spend too much on extra items for a couple months a year. 

2. Start a New Savings or Checking Account: Are you having trouble with overdraft? That can totally deplete your clothes budget (along with the savings for rent, groceries, and more), and I read that ING Direct offers overdraft protection in which you are charged a competitive percentage instead of the usual blanket fees per each transaction/withdrawal. 

3. Shop Exclusively in Clearance Sales: I always shop for clearance pieces, and I haven't paid full price in years. Even if you love love love one particular item, you can find a similar one for much cheaper (% off and $ off per order, free shipping, and more should dictate those specially purchased work pieces). This is especially easy to do when you are shopping for occasion-specific gear.

4. Be Smart When It Comes to Pumps: Black shoes are a great buy, year-round: just be sure that you're purchasing different styles to add depth to your wardrobe, like classic pumps, stilettos, wedges, ankle booties, knee-high boots, and sandals. 

5. Fit Back Into Old Pieces: Pants too tight after a ten-pound gain? Consider the plusses and minuses of getting a little more fit and not having to buy a whole new wardrobe. . . if you'll lucky, this will coincide with your exercise resolutions, anyway!

6. Stock Up on Basics: We all need to buy white socks and underwear, so if you see a deal in 2009, strike! It might not be as fun as shopping for the cool stuff, but it's going to save you a ton of cash.

7. Have Fun: Up to your neck in black suits? Before you buy another, don't forget that you need to look great on the weekends, too-- and lingerie is a great buy that's not too expensive, either.

(Herringbone Vest, Shawl Cardigan with Bow)

Top Ten Fashion Mistakes-- and How to Fix Them

Fix yourself fast with these tips!

1. Not Staying Within the Age Range: Don't dress yourself younger than you are-- or at least close to it, that is! Slip into a dress with a slinky wrap shape that's appropriate for all ages and still have that young and sexy feel.

(Maggy London Ruched Dress)

2. Not Dressing for Yourself: If someone tells you how to dress, then you'll probably feel like you're not completely true to yourself-- and it will show. Instead of forcing yourself to wear things because others like them, dress for you and simply make a few concessions to make them happy. If your boyfriend, husband, mother, or sister likes you in that lilac dress, for example, you can always appease the with a purse in purple from time to time. Life's too short to sacrifice style.

3. Getting Dolled Up for the Wrong Reasons: Don't play the part at work, either. While there might be certain professional expectations for you, don't forget that you can push boundaries without overstepping them by adding a black belt to a white top underneath a work blazer, for example.

4. Not Accessorizing: An easy mistake to make-- but a costly one when it comes to your wardrobe. If you simply can't bear to switch up your accessories on a day-to-day basis because you're too busy, simply choose a few “sets” of classic accessories to wear and complete your rotation like that.

5. Dressing the Part: If you're a mom or a student, mix things up beyond your usual “uniform.” Steer clear of sweats and tees if you go to uni, and stay away from “mom jeans” no matter what your age!

(DKNY Stretch Flares)

6. Staying Away from Heels: Heels might not be the most comfortable item to wear, but they can really improve the look of your trousers and jeans. When your trousers look leaner and slimmer, so do you.

7. Getting Hung-Up on Matching: Pink, pink, and pink do NOT go as well together as you might imagine! Branch out by buying a mini color wheel and putting it inside your closet-- no, I'm not kidding. You can easily match complementary colors together instead of sticking to a monochromatic look.

(Alloy Floral Neck-Tie Tunic)

8. Always Wearing “The Same” Type of Separates: Always wearing jeans? Sticking to skirts? You can turn your look around with a few choice selections. Branch out a little!

9. Not Choosing Clothes That Fit: Trust your real size! Instead of looking at the numbers and overanalyzing, simply cut the numbers out of your clothes after purchasing-- and look great!

10. **Most Important One**-- Not Feeling Confident: Confidence can make or break any ensemble. Instead of wearing something that makes you want to tug on your clothes all day long, why don't you compromise and find something comfy and stylish?

Cool Skirts and Designer Gear from eLuxury

I love eLuxury! I've been shopping at their site for a few years now, and it's rare that I head on there and don't find something to buy. I'm a huge fan of creative pieces, and eLuxury stocks lots of designer and celeb looks for less. With a little flair and plenty of brands to choose from, eLuxury is "it."

Robert Rodriguez Golden Bow Skirt
This skirt is oh-so-tempting. It's composed of linen and cotton, with a soft cotton lining, and pintucks along the top waistband seam. It has an easy glamour that may be best compared to your favorite sweats! This skirt has a roomy and cozy feel, but unlike your sweatpants, it's very stylish and avant-garde in color and style.

Ultra Sexy Mini with Metal Ball Chain Detail: What an intriguing piece. It's a good thing that denim skirts can hang around in your closet and are always in style, because you'll be getting your money's worth easily.

Michael Kors Washed Cotton Poplin Skirt:
Slouchy is fantastic for wearing-round-the-house or going out on casual outings. I particularly like this one, because it looks like it feels incredibly soft (which I like!) and could totally work for night in a pinch. I would try wearing my comfortable skirt with a button-down vest and a white tee. If I was feeling really daring, I might even go for espadrilles in warm weather.

Vince Pleated Pique Skirt: This casual skirt has major business potential for casual dress environments. Pleats are shapely, sexy, and refined, but a looser fit lets you slouch about no matter where you are. Try this with a lightweight top or something similar-- just make sure that it's on the fitted side.

Doo.Ri Runway Tiered Skirt: Mocha, latte, cappucino-- this dress is your quick fix for a cafe craving!

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.

Top 7 Tips to Save Money When Budget Shopping

Shopping online can be perfect. Being able to sit at home, avoid the traffic, and do amazing price comparisons in seconds are just a few of the reasons why I adore shopping on the internet. I may love to dig up a bargain in local thrift stores, but in general I'm an online-exclusive girl.

But I've picked up a few tips along the way. As much as I love to browse eBay, hunt out bargains on Bluefly, and order household appliances over at Walmart, I know that it's easy to make a few mistakes and not save at all! In honor of a successful online shopping week, I'd like to save some tips with you on saving while budget shopping.

1. Try things out-- and be sure that you can make a return if necessary.

This can be tricky while shopping online, but it's possible. If you have found an online deal from a major local retailer, it can be worth to combine a stop with your errands and establish your size in that particular label. That way, you can take advantage of "No Return" Final Sales without the riskiness.

2. Small changes can work wonders.

Instead of sticking to "must have" labels, don't forget that you can always get lookalike pieces for less. Some great places to do your research is The Budget Fashionista, which lists deals and price comparisons, and Fabcrush, which sponsors weekly "Dealcrushes" that can save you half off a designer outfit.

These peach and orange colored confections from Old Navy are perfect deals and are just my color! They will match many of the spring items in my closet.

3. Decide what you need.

Clean out your closet before you buy major items. Choose pieces as your seasonal core wardrobe, and only purchase items that support this look. Don't forget that separates are your friends.

4. Don't get sold by a sale.

Sales are magical, but only when you play your cards right. Sale shopping isn't always perfect, especially when you're facing an unfamiliar brand and unfamiliar sizing. Instead of investing in pieces that may not fit, look for mid-priced items that can be returned.

5. Do your research.

Check out forums where people discuss their online shopping experiences. Avoid shops with negative reviews if you want to avoid the strife and pressure that comes along with shopping smart.

6. Know your colors and style.

Shop according to what looks best on you, and not what's the cheapest. Sales tees can be great, but if they are all electric pink and banana yellow, you may want to head to regularly-priced items that will end of saving you money when you consider the "cost per wear" factor.

7. Make a list.

Make a little list at the beginning of each season, and keep it by your computer. That way, if you get a tempting sales email or a tip from a friend, you can guide your shopping and cross an item off your list.