My Money Saving Tips

After my big splurge a few posts ago, I decided I need to scrimp & save on some things for the next couple of months or so. Sadly, those Uniqlo cords I wanted to get might be out of the picture, though $19.90 for a pair are really unbelievable..so we'll see how long I can hold out for...

But I did come up with some money saving tips that I thought I might share with everyone, so here goes:

• Find inventive ways to style your hair - curl it, mimic a salon blowout. Whatever it is, styling your do refreshes it & buys you time before your next trim. So dust-off those curling irons and wake up a little earlier & put some effort into it. People notice, trust me.
  
  
• Save on color cosmetics - especially the trendy stuff. Eyeshadows and lipsticks in experimental colors for the season don't have to be expensive. Drugstore brands will do just fine and if you're worried about the colors not being pigmented enough, just make sure you use an eyeshadow base/primer.
  
  
• Always be on the lookout for good sales/deals - Old Navy has fantastic deals on basic tshirts and tank tops. Forever 21 and H&M are my go-tos for current trends. Uniqlo is awesome for affordable basics too. Being in NY, we have sample sales galore - so hit them up and stock up on the classics.
  
  
• When shopping online - ALWAYS look for coupon codes. You never know when you can get an extra 15% off or free shipping.
  
  
• Buy handmade - I've found great items for very affordable prices from Etsy.com These are up and coming designers trying to make a small living from their crafty hobbies.
  
  
• Buy refill packs of shampoo/body wash etc instead of new bottles. You will often save a few dollars by reusing your old containers.
  
  
• If you have small pets like I do, like hamsters or guinea pigs - recycle things around your home for them to play in or use instead of buying feeders or bowls from stores. An old tissue box, toilet rolls and paperbags make fun toys, makeshift feeders & hideouts for them.
  
  
• Jojoba oil is a great multi-purpose product! Use it to treat split ends or as a hair treatment. It can also be used as a makeup remover (since it leaves no residue) and foot & hand treatment for dry skin & cuticles!
  
  
• Invest in neutral nail polish to save you trips to the manicurist. Neutral colors last longer and chips are less obvious and they're easier to paint on.
  
  
• Reinforce the soles and heels of your new or current shoes to make them last a lot longer and always consult a cobbler before throwing away a pair of old shoes/boots to see if it can be salvaged.
  
  
• Pack your own lunch to work!
  
  
• Drink your own homemade coffee or tea rather than ringing it up at Starbucks while on the way to work
  
  
• Make use of a water filter rather than bottled water or if you are the bottled mineral water drinker - look out for deals. The other day at Rite Aid, I saw Smart Water on sale for 5 for $5!
  
  
• Don't ever be shy when asking for samples. This gives you the opportunity to try new products without paying full price.
  
  
• Make use of drugstore coupons and weekly deals they have. Often, essentials are featured like toothpaste or toilet paper and even cosmetics are sometimes buy one get one free!
  
  
• Subscribe to magazines - its MUCH cheaper!
  
  
• Never be afraid to look for cheaper alternatives online. Especially if you know what you're looking for. I found my Hot Tools curling iron for more than 40% off online than if I bought it at a beauty supply store. My vacuum was also at least 50% off too. Amazon has books which are sold used but really are in quite good condition and you save anywhere from 30%-70% off the retail price. This doesn't exclude designer/branded items too, my gf got awesome deals at Yoox.com - she paid $70 for a pair Giorgio Armani flats and $60 for a Marni skirt!
  

I do hope this proves to be useful information - in this economy a little bit can go a long way. Would love to hear any other money saving tips any of you might have! :) Go forth & save!