Look and Feel Great on A Budget

Whether there is a recession or not, people generally want to save a buck or stretch it.  The following suggestions will help keep your wallet fat and healthy.

Love eating out at casual or fancy restaurants?  This can cost a ton of money if done on a regular basis.  Let's be honest here, you usually don't go alone.  Perhaps a spouse or the whole family?  Why not mimic some of your favorite restaurant meals by making them at home.  You will be able to control the ingredients that goes into your dish.  For example, you may want to cut fat, carbs or sodium by making a healthier version.  Look for supermarket sales and cut coupons.  There are several coupon websites you can print coupons and redeem.


When looking great is a big deal, why make money a big deal? An at home make over also gives the purse a wealthy make over.  Manicuring and pedicuring your own nails once a week as needed, can help save a few dollars a month.  If you have talent and can dress your own hair, give it a go.  Of course, if a haircut is in order, I recommend a professional.  Use items you already have in the cupboard such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a teaspoon of sugar for a facial.  Keep skin moist by moisturizing before face is completely dry.

Celebrities often set trends that we would all love to have in our closets, but face it, not all of us have celebrity loot.  There are great stores offering replicas of those beautiful clothes for a fraction of the cost.  Stores like Zara's, Forever21, Charlotte Russe and Daffy's carry trendy threads for the fashionably savvy.  If it's the expensive buys you want still, then Sample Sales can still save some mu-la.  You may have to register with some in your area, but it is still a bargain.

Finally, don't cut yourself short on the footwear.  Online shopping is also a great way to find savings on almost everything and shipping too! Visit stores like Amazon.com and do a little research. There are endless options of on-line stores which people can find the latest styles of shoes for around $40 or so.  Depending on what you're willing to spend, the sky is the limit when it comes to footwear.  There is even a $5 Shoe Warehouse on-line that has a great selection of flats and sandals for the Summer. Your wallet will thank you!