Bargain Babe

Save Time and Money - At Home Manicure

2009-09-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

Insta-Dri
Fast Dry Nail Color

If you don't have time to go to the nail salon, or you just want to save a few bucks with a DIY manicure, try this product.
The Perfectionist Brush^™ is thicker than an ordinary polish brush and is supposed to give you that fresh, shiny manicure look in one coat and it dries in 60 seconds.

Friday Finds!

2009-09-04T08:37:00.000-07:00

This Floral Ruffle Tank from Charlotte Russe is a flattering and feminine transition piece from summer to fall at a low price of $18.99

Old Navy's Women's Plus Roll-Up Wrap Sweaters, $39.50, are a versatile alternative to a cardigan for women with curves.

Unexpected Accessories

2009-08-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

This fall, accessories steal the scene with their bold designs, and the new line of jewelry at New York & Company is eye catching and affordable. The watches, rings, earrings, and necklaces have an expensive look and feel about them that I didn't expect from New York & Company. For a limited time, the jewelry is buy one get one 50 % off too! Here are some of my top picks:

City Style Triple Strand Bead & Ribbon Long Necklace , $24.95

City Bright Pave Swirl & Faux Pearl Ring, $22.95 City Bright Linked Pave Ovals Bracelet, $22.95

Summer Steal

2009-07-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

One of the best shoe deals that I've come across in a long time is at Nine West retail stores and Ninewest.com. I snagged these pumps in black and dark natural on sale for only $29.99 each! The were previously retailing for almost $90.00. They are perfect for spring, summer, and fall so getting to wear them for more than just one season makes them a true bargain. They also look fabulous with both skirts and pants. These shoes are so comfortable because of the stacked heel and hidden platform. The soles are made of rubber so walking on marble can be done with confidence. Believe me, the picture doesn't do them justice and they are worth every penny. To order or for more color options click here.

Flat Facts

2009-06-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

There's so many cute flat shoes and it's often impossible to wear them with dress pants. I've heard stylists suggest buying a flattering pair of pants and hem one to accommodate flats and leave the other long to wear with heels. A friend of mine recently suggested that I start buying petite sizes to wear with flats. Genius! The petite pants are perfect to wear with flats thanks to their shorter inseam and I didn't even have to spend the time and money getting them hemmed professionally.

The Perfect Petite Pants:

Petite Marisa A-Line Stretch Panama Pants, $59.50, Ann Taylor Loft

Friends & Family Event at Nine West, Anne Klein and more

2009-05-05T10:47:00.001-07:00

The Nine West, Easy Spirit, Bandolino, AK Anne Klein and shoeWoo Specialty Retail Friends & Family event will run from Thursday, May 7 – Sunday, May 10. This coupon can also be used online at ninewest.com, easyspirit.com, bandolino.com, anneklein.com and jny.com.

Be sure to share this coupon with all of your Friends & Family in advance of the event. All you have to do is print the coupon and bring it to the nearest Nine West, Easy Spirit, Bandolino, AK Anne Klein or shoeWoo (Menlo Park Mall, NJ only) Specialty Retail Stores or shop online at the websites listed above. See the attached store address lists to help you find the stores closest to you.

Ease of the Jumpsuit

2009-03-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Jumpsuit is a versatile and budget-friendly trend for spring 2009. This one-piece look gained popularity in the 1970’s and has evolved into a contemporary ready-to-wear outfit that is available at all price points.

As predicted, the Jumpsuit has made a huge comeback. I feel this item is so popular right now because of its versatility and easy transition from day to night. Add a blazer and a belt for a chic day look, remove the blazer and add a long necklace and a bangle for night. Some jumpsuits are now made to look like they are separates, so you are really getting two pieces for the price of one.

Some Jumpsuit Finds:

Gabi Satin Jumpsuit, Forever 21, $22.80

Wide Leg Jersey Jumpsuit, Aqua, $58.00

Modern Short Jumpsuit, Express, $59.50

Knit and Woven Mix Jumpsuit, Arden B., $68.00

Friday Finds at Banana Republic

2009-03-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

FEATURED: 'Helen' buckle metallic peep toe shoes are on sale now for $68 from $98 at Bananarepublic.com.

This shoe is ideal for the weekend or a casual day at the office and the quality will last you a several seasons. To purchase click here.

FEATURED: The Bridgeport Tote is currently on sale for $182 from $260.

This beautiful neutral color works well with black or brown outerwear. Owning neutral accessories makes matching with a jacket look effortless.

To purchase, click here.

Shop It To Me!

2009-03-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

Do you wish you could look into a crystal ball to know when your favorite stores will have a sale?

Well meet your crystal ball, it's called Shopittome.com.

The website functions as a personal shopper and it will alert you when your favorite online store is having a sale. They call it "Salemail™" and you get to choose whether you will be notified daily or weekly and what stores and apparel sizes you want to monitor.

Try it out by clicking here and let me know what you think!

"Sale Away!"

"Out with the Old, Save on the New" Event at Ann Taylor LOFT

2009-02-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

Bring your "gently-worn" pants of any brand to an Ann Taylor LOFT location from Monday March 2 - Sunday March 8, and receive $15 off of a full price pant purchase!

All donated pants will be sold in Goodwill(R) retail stores and the revenues will help fund Goodwill job training programs and support services.

The "Out with the Old, Save on the New" event begins on Monday, March 2nd and ends on Sunday, March 8th and is only valid at LOFT stores. Please visit AnnTaylorLOFT.com for a store location near you.

Season of Sales

2009-02-09T14:12:00.000-08:00

There is no better way to shop for seasonal clothing like coats and boots than to explore off-season shopping.

For shoes, I like to shop online when possible. Check out Victoriasecret.com for their current sale items. You'd be surprised at the dresses, sweaters, and shoes available right now!

These Steve Madden boots were originally $69 and are now on clearance for $44.99 at Victoriassecret.com.
To purchase at click here.

Or how about this jacket from Victoriassecret.com? It was originally $159 and now it's on clearance for $49.99

To purchase click here.

A Savvy Grocer is a Happy Grocer

2009-02-04T08:54:00.000-08:00

Are you cooking at home now more than ever? It's great to be able to not only control all of the ingredients in your food but to save some money while you're at it. Preparing your own meals allows you to eat healthier and it can be economical too. The secret to saving by cooking at home is proper planning.

If I arrive at the supermarket unprepared and without a list, I can spend more than I would at a restaurant for a week.

Here are some easy steps you can take to arrive at the store armed and ready.

1. Plan for the week and stick to your plan. - Questions to ask yourself... What nights will you be cooking? For how many? What ingredients will stay freshest the longest?

2. Prepare a detailed menu for the week and break out your shopping list from there. *Here's a time saving tip. Divide your list up into sections of the store so you stay in order and avoid straying from your list. You don't need that $46.00 truffle butter.

3. Always check expiration dates on EVERYTHING, and take a look at the center of produce like asparagus for freshness. Some stores are notorious for making produce appear fresher than it is by conveniently rearranging some leaves and stems. Don't be afraid to opt for frozen veggies - they will last longer and they're just as nutritious!

4. Buy extra of sale items like marinara sauce, cereal, or edamame, that you can freeze or store away.

5. If you shop weekly, try to buy enough non-perishables for 2-4 weeks so you only need to stock up on proteins and produce next week.

And please eat before you shop!

Salon Quality Nails at a FRACTION of the cost

2009-01-14T11:27:00.000-08:00

I had silk or gel wraps on my nails for about 10 years on and off and suddenly realized I was spending about $1200 a year on these things! After my wedding I had the wraps removed and I went on a supplement that I took about 4 years ago after I accidentally slammed my thumb in a car door. The doctor told me to take this to help my nail grow back. Not only did it grow back but my nails looked so good, they looked like wraps! I'm now taking this supplement and I'm putting $100 into savings every month instead of getting my nails done.

The supplement is called Knox for Nails, Gelatine Dietary Supplement. To purchase, click here. Most drug stores and supermarkets do carry it.

Winter Wedding Woes

2009-01-08T09:01:00.001-08:00

I recently received a comment requesting advice on what to wear to a winter wedding. This was the reader's criteria:

1. Friendly to holiday poundage

2. Budget conscious

3. Warm

Here are some items I pulled for you to look at. Let me know what you think!

<- This dress is only $19.99 and it can be paired with some nice, classy knee length black boots and a colorful necklace. Not to mention the empire waist will allow you to eat as much wedding cake as you want! Click here if you are interested.

<-If you have a little more money to spend and prefer a brand name like Michael Kors click here to purchase this Matte Jersey Dress at Nordstrom for only $88.00!

Also check out designer Maggie London. This brand offers some practical winter dresses for a variety of body types and budgets. Click here to view Maggie London at Nordstrom.

Dieting on a budget - talk about a worst case scenerio.

2009-01-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

Dieting after the holidays is probably inevitable for most people, but how do you do this while on a budget? If wanting to fit back into your normal clothes isn't motivation, I don't know what is. Suddenly my choices in jeans that I own went from about 6 pairs to one pair between December and January. So now it's time to cut the carbs, or go to the gym, or something... tomorrow.

Since I'm not a dietician, I can only suggest what has worked for me when wallets and pants get tight. Most of the time when you gain weight it's because of the choices you make when it's time to eat. I like to snack when I cook or clean up from dinner so right now I like to chew gum to prevent from over-eating during these times. I will also portion my food before I eat it to half of what I would typically eat; then after that is gone I will wait about 10 minutes before eating again because the chances are, I will be full. Not only am I cutting my portions, but I have saved enough for lunch the next day so I'm cutting my spending too! These are just some little tidbits of advice. If you are really looking for a solid plan to follow, google dieticians or nutritionists in your area. Most professionals do take health insurance and they will tell you the most efficient way to loose weight. If you don't have time to visit a professional try to pick up books like these:

"Your Diet on a Budget: Better Food Choices that are Easy on Your Waistline and Wallet"

by D. Johnson - for more information, or to purchase the book, click here.

Or my own personal favorite: "The South Beach Diet: The Delicious, Doctor-Designed, Foolproof Plan for Fast and Healthy Weight Loss" by Arthur Agatson- for more information or to purchase the book, click here.

Chictopia

2008-12-18T14:05:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across this site that apparently isn't such a secret. Teen Vogue named Chictopia.com "the next big thing." It's a place to browse for fashion inspiration, share your views on certain looks or designers, and learn about what looks good on you. You can also upload pictures of yourself and your own fashion finds. Frankly I'm a little peeved that I didn't come up with this first, but maybe Chictopia.com is just paving the way for Bargain Babe to be named "the next-next big thing". Right?? Click here to check it out.

Coupon Cabin

2008-12-16T10:34:00.001-08:00

I really can't stand collecting grocery store coupons but I approve of these for shopping: http://www.couponcabin.com/index.htm

Um, Hello bags and shoes?

2008-12-10T13:35:00.001-08:00

Click here for stylist Rachel Zoe's picks.

Does my fashion sense influence my job security?

2008-12-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

If there is ever a time to exude professionalism - it's now! The philosophy I was taught in fashion school was - dress for the job you want, not for the job you have. If the job you have IS the job you want, then dress to keep it. You don't have to wear designer labels to look professional. Make sure you are covered, conservative, and chic. This doesn't mean you need to dress like a stereotypical secretary, just put a little more thought into your appearance than you normally would. If you are lucky enough to be able to wear jeans to work, you can still look professional by pairing with a blazer, and nice shoes. Don't ever take advantage of a casual dress policy. Stephen Viscusi, author of "Bulletproof Your Job" stated this is the number 2 way to ensure job security. I have listed the top ten for your information and if you want to purchase Viscusi's book, click here:

1. Arrive early, stay late, skip the two-hour lunches—this is the first defense against out-of-sight-out-of-mind syndrome

2. Look good—your superiors will note exceptional personal presentation

3. Pay attention to details—show care over the smallest particulars

4. Listen up—tune in instead of zoning out in meetings, conferences, conversations

5. Speak up—ask questions, answer questions, offer an intelligent point of view

6. Volunteer to lead—offer to head up projects, meetings, events, research initiatives etc.

7. Make presentations—a great way to put your confidence, mastery of a subject, and communication skills on display

8. Represent your company —offer to represent your company at seminars, meetings or conferences

9. Find a mentor—she can be a valuable advocate for you with other influential managers

10. Talk to your boss—make a regular habit of communicating with your boss about lots of things, not just problems

VIP Holiday Deals at the Short Hills Mall

2008-12-02T13:03:00.000-08:00

Stop by the Guest Services desk in the Short Hills mall and ask for the Holiday Special Offers brochure. In it you will find offers at just about every store and restaurant in the mall. The savings include 20% off at Banana Republic, 15% off your purchase at Ann Taylor, and 10% off at Johnny Rockets when you spend $10 or more.

Merchandising Your Closet

2008-12-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

I used to find myself forgetting about a shirt I love or a wrap dress because it was hidden in my closet behind bulky items like sweaters or folded over pants. While most people don't have the luxury of having a closet like Kimora Lee Simmons, we can still keep our garments organized so that we know what we have to choose from. It's important to merchandise your closet. I like to organize by purpose and color. I have a work section and a going out section. This way I am only "shopping" in one area of the closet when I am rushed to get out the door.

Un- buried Treasures

2008-12-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

Do you feel like you have nothing to wear or you are just tired of your current wardrobe? If going on a shopping excursion is simply not an option right now, try to take a rainy day to organize your current wardrobe. Lay out all of your tops, skirts, pants, dresses, sweaters, shoes, bags, belts, hats and scarves and play dress up. Try to pair and layer pieces that you wouldn't normally have time to experiment with while getting ready for work in the morning. You may end up looking like a bag-lady Olsen twin, OR you may end up with a few free new outfits thanks to your own creativity!

A Pedi Friendly Alternative

2008-11-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a peep-toe boot alternative that is versitile and less expensive, and pedi friendly.

<-- Nine West Iceblue Boot $99.99

Peep Toe Conspiracy

2008-11-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

Here is a trend that I don't love. The peep toe boot; I just don't get it - are the world's boot makers in cahoots with nail salons to ensure that pedicures are perfectly maintained even throughout winter? While I DO continue my pedicures throughout all seasons, this really puts the pressure on.

Featured here from Macy's: Marc Fisher "Zadie" Ankle Boot $129.00 -->

Loehmann's news!

2008-11-27T07:24:00.000-08:00

Click here for your Loehmann's discount.

Discount Alert

2008-11-26T16:16:00.000-08:00

Bargain Hunters,
Click here to access Nordstrom's 40% off sale. (Thanks for the tip Sarah!)

Jewelry for the Masses

2008-11-26T07:00:00.001-08:00

I have always loved but have never owned Adina Jewelry. It's a bit pricey depending on what you are looking for, but it uses classic lines and design elements that will never go out of style.

http://www.adinadesign.com/ (Above left- Snake ring. Above center - Snake necklace. Above right - Circle ring.)

Here is a tip on Shoosing Shoes (get it?)

2008-11-26T06:40:00.000-08:00

When choosing a heel, opt for one with a small platform in the front. It will keep you foot balanced as you walk and create less tension on the ball of your foot throughout your busy day. Try something like this from Aldo -->

My Shoe and Bag Secret

2008-11-26T06:24:00.000-08:00

More and more people are asking me where to go for boots that fit just right. I have also been asked "where did you get that BAG? What designer is it?" I usually have the same response to both questions, and that's Bakers Shoe store in Livingston or Rockaway. I would say 8 out of 10 times I will find an expensive looking piece here for less than $100 and sometimes less than $40.
http://www.bakersshoes.com/

Surveying the Bargain - Is it a steal?

2008-11-25T16:53:00.000-08:00

Quick Tip:
When bargain hunting, here are some questions that I like to ask myself to determine whether I should buy a garment or not.

1. Will this last if I wash it at home or will I need to spend on dry-cleaning?
2. Are there quality fastenings and is the finishing done properly on this piece (buttons, zippers, hem, etc)?
3. What other pieces can I pair this with that will make the outfit look complete?
4. Will this work with the belts, shoes, jackets that already I own?

Hope this helps! Do you have any tips on how to survey the bargain? Share with the Bargain Babe.

Shopping 101 - Saving Strategy

2008-11-25T12:44:00.000-08:00

Say I am looking for a high-waisted pencil skirt but I don't need a Zac Posen design. It just needs to look expensive right? Here is my strategy. I will go to Norstrom for a piece like this since I know that they have several departments that I can search through. I will start on the top floor, Brass Plum. Yes - I know, it's a Junior department and I'm 27 years old. I'm not in denial and I'm not delusional. It's worth trying because I would rather get a larger size here and save $40-$100. If the quality of the garment isn't up to par then I venture to the next department.

Let me give you another example. If I need a long sleeve tee, I will go to Old Navy first, then the Gap, and then Banana. I am not going to start at the top of the pricing hierarchy if I can get what I need at the lowest price point.

Have a garment in mind that you are looking for and don't know where to start? Ask Bargain Babe!

Quick Links to Shopping Splurges and Savings

2008-11-25T12:26:00.000-08:00

If you feel like a splurge here is your one stop shopping destination for clothing, accessories, shoes and more:

http://www.couturecandy.com/

If you have hours to kill on a rainy Saturday or Sunday try out one of my personal faves on the third floor of Century 21 Department store. (Don't miss the shoes either) I know the hot spots in the store, so skip the digging and ask the Bargain Babe where to shop within the store before you go. I'll save you time and energy.

http://www.c21stores.com/

Some of my girlfriends and stylish moms that I know prefer Loehmann's. For me, it's hit or miss - and I'm NOT a fan of the open style fitting room. If you have no shame, or no need to try on altogether, check it out:

http://www.loehmanns.com/

Another old fave is Fox's. This store caters to a 35-60 demographic, but if I am looking for something Cache-ish, this is my store.

http://www.foxs.com/

Do you have a favorite store? Let me know about it!

Fashion Tips to be Thankful for

2008-11-25T11:47:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving tip: If you are having a casual dinner with family at a relative's house, or at your own home, keep it simple. Chances are you will be surrounded by activity and you may be helping in the kitchen at times (if not the entire day).

I like to wear a simple sleeve with no hanging elements. Avoiding a dip into the gravy when passing it across the table is something to be thankful for.

I also recommend a low heel, or none at all. I will opt for a pair of riding boots from Century 21 department store, and a Banana Republic Dress that I got on sale for $50.00 the other day.

Need help with your Thanksgiving Outfit? Ask Bargain Babe!