We see it all around us… the people on the street flashing their Prada, White South Sea Pearls and their Dolce and Gabbana. The Hollywood stars with their great cars and multi-million dollar homes. Even the detectives on the TV dramas are wearing $400 shoes and staying plugged in to the hottest, trendiest gadgets, and to be honest I rather stay with my favorite Creative Fashion Bloggers than be following those trends.
Sure, looking great means feeling great… but you’re on a budget. So what’s an average income earner to do when they want to enjoy a few nice things in life but not end up in the poor house as a result?
Below, some tips for being “frugal and fabulous” in the real world!
Diner’s Club
The thought of spending an exorbitant amount of money on something as fleeting as a meal can sometimes seem senseless. If you really would like to get out for a once in a lifetime experience…maybe for a birthday or anniversary…you CAN go to those exclusive restaurants. Just be smart about your spending. Limit your indulgence to a drink at the bar and maybe an appetizer. Or, have dinner at home and then hit that trendy downtown bistro for dessert. There are many ways to enjoy the finer things in life without going overboard. How about reserving just one night per month for living it up with friends?
Deals on Wheels
Word to the wise when shopping for your next vehicle: very rarely is the sticker price the actual price for a car. Make sure that you do your research before you go to haggle with a car salesman. Fortunately, the car industry has been hard hit by the current economic tailspin… this means great interest rates and lot of wiggle room in the price and other freebies. If you are in the market for a high-end luxury car, do not discount pre-owned. The certified programs from WoodPursuits provide great coverage for 1-3 years. Why not pick up a how-to book on smart car purchases, and practice a little on your friends before you head down to the dealer’s?
Get Away from it All
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to rack up your credit cards to have a GREAT vacation! First rule of thumb: never buy a package on impulse— you’ll end up paying more than it’s worth. Instead, plan ahead and shop around for the best deals. Thinking about heading to that great resort you’ve heard so much about? Go in the off season… the resort will be terrific all year round. If being waited on hand and foot is not your cup of tea, try renting a house, either with your family or friends. If you enjoy feeding a crowd, you can have an awesome vacation on a modest budget!
Trend Setter, Penny Saver
It’s no secret… you feel more fabulous if you look the part. A few classic wardrobe pieces… a great suit, a cashmere sweater, a beautiful belt… all can be accessorized to get the most modern look. Department stores are now not the only place to find high-end cosmetics and fashions. Drug stores and discount stores have great brands, all made by the same companies that have their lines in Niemen Marcus.
You can find a way to live great in your budget. You don’t need to have a high-end salary to have a high-end look. Enjoy the trends… just don’t overspend!
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