By Elisa DiStefano
Everyone is feeling the pressure...the economy...the holidays coming up. I (like just about everyone else I know) have really limited my purchases.
This was the topic of conversation at a recent outing with my friends (who are all firm believers in retail therapy). These ladies don't just love fashion, they live fashion. City sample sales are a major sporting event ( I wish we had more on Long Island-- you can get great deals!). They are always on the cutting edge. They always look fabulous. They always know the best new products and trends-- and know how to get the best deals! They all had advice on how to be a smarter shopper-- or in their words-- a "recessionista". I took notes!
I'm sure you've heard of the "lipstick effect". Basically, it's the theory that during difficult economic times women buy smaller feel-good items (like lipstick) rather than bigger more expensive luxury items (like handbags and clothes). Makes sense, new make-up always makes me feel better. I think the key is to stay away from the high priced counters and find some great alternatives! By the way--now is a great time to get great make-up deals. Stores like Ulta, Sephora, and department stores are selling holiday gift sets. I've already picked some up for gifts because they usually run out quickly. I've also been picking up inexpensive cute make-up bags and collecting my favorite make-up finds when they are on sale. I am going to put together little gifts for friends and also to donate (charitable organizations are always looking for gifts for teenagers and parents).
I listed some of my friends' recommendations below!
If you love Dior Show ($24)-- try Cover Girl lashblast for $7.99 . You can get it on sale for even less.
If you love Kiehl's Lip Balm ($6.50- $9.50)-- try Carmex for $1.69 at CVS. (Many stores sell the 3 pack for $2.99-- great for me because I always lose them!)
Try a drug store brand exfoliant like oldie but goodie-- St. Ives Apricot scrub.
All of my friends switched from their very, very expensive moisturizers to Oil of Olay Regenerist. It's under $24 in most stores. My friends overseas stock up on it when they visit!
Try Cetaphil moisturizer and face wash.My dermatologist recommends it!
Relieve stress by soaking in a Epsom salt bath. You can get a lot of it for just a few bucks!
Raid Marshall's and TJ Maxx in upscale neighborhoods-- they tend to have better items!
Make your manicure last twice as long, and make your nails stronger by applying duri's Rejuvacote. It's about $5 in any beauty supply store.
Instead of a whitening treatment, try a whitening stick like Dental White Quick Stick.
Accessorize! Instead of buying a new outfit, buy a new accessory! Get a great belt, scarf, or feather for your hair or to add to a bag or belt! Feathers are huge for spring too!
Check out Glamour Magazine for cool coats under $200 and great glosses for under $10 . My friend just picked up a really chic designer coat for a fraction of the price at Burlington Coat Factory.
I've been getting calls from local spas and salons saying their business is really hurting. Spa 190 in Mineola extended spa week to spa month. I asked the stylists in Salon Blue for some tips to make hair cuts last longer. They recommended a "fringe trim" (I had never heard of that! ) in between regular appointments. Face framing fringe trims dust off split ends up front to refresh your cut. Ask your salon about it. Salon Blue offers it free of charge for their clients.
They also recommend that you ask for a "precision haircut" (something else I've never heard of!). It's done when the hair is both wet and dry to insure the ultimate in accuracy. They say this cut will stay fresh up to 10 weeks.
I am not picky about my shampoo or conditioner. Pantene works for me. I've tried others that are more expensive, but since my hair is pin straight, I never saw any difference in volume or shine. I get overwhelmed in the shampoo aisle too! They recommended I try Kerestase shampoo and conditioner. They said it will heal my split ends and prevent the damaging effects of blow drying and cold weather. I'll let you know how it works out!
I don't use any color so I don't know much about it.... but they recommend Goldwell Soft Color Semi permanent dye. They say it's ideal for those who want their hair color refreshed but don't want to pay for a full price color. They say it brightens dull strands and blends grays in about 10 minutes. They also suggest going for a more subtle shade highlight because it's not only only sexy for fall and winter, but it's easier to maintain. The natural look won't show an obvious line of regrowth and won't need to be touched up as frequently. They say Kerestase deep conditioning treatment locks in color and makes it last! I guess they really like that brand :-)
If you are dying for designer handbags, check out Bag Borrow or Steal ( as featured in Sex and the City movie). There are some amazing ones!
Why not do some early holiday shopping? Simon Malls host their Evening of Giving on Sunday night. Get big discounts and give back to our Long Island Charities!
I love this site "The Budget Fashionista" -- there are some great tips and coupons! My favorite: Store your pantyhose in the freezer. It makes them last longer! Brrr!