The Cheap Diva

Beautiful Deals from ULTA

Bad makeup makes me cry! No, I don't mean that I get emotional over lumpy mascara. My foundation irritated my eyes so much when I wore it recently that when I went grocery shopping my watery eyes looked like I was bawling over the selection of baked goods. Thank goodness ULTA is having a Buy 1 get 1 1/2 off sale on great drugstore brands including Maybelline, Physicians Formula, Neutrogena, and Cover Girl. Now I can buy some tear free foundation.

In addition to this sale, ULTA has lots of other sales and deals in their current flier that cover everything from cosmetics, skincare and haircare. One of the deals that caught my eye was the $30.00 deal for a haircut and style  or accent highlights. If you feel like every day has become a bad hair day, this is a pretty affordable way to try a new hairstylist out. Another great deal is the 25% off select cosmetic bags, Caboodles, sunglasses and fashion hair accessories.

Trina Juicy Fruit Pencil Case on Sale for $9.00.

Save More in Department Stores

 Andrea Woroch is my shopping hero!  Andrea Woroch is a consumer and money-saving expert for Kinoli Inc. and she was kind enough to sent me the following article.

JCPenney recently announced a permanent markdown of at least 40 percent on all it's merchandise - a preemptive move to introduce a tiered strategy of ongoing promotions to offer consumers more value.

Wouldn't it be nice if all department stores followed suit? Since it's likely they won't, now is a good time to brush up on your department-store shopping skills with these seven tips to save at your favorite stores.

1. Befriend Sales Associates
Though your knee-jerk reaction to eager salespeople may be "I'm just looking," consider taking them up on their offer to serve you. Better yet, seek them out every time you shop the store. Building a rapport with a sales associate leads to the inside-track on upcoming sales and yields better customer service.

2. Get Smart
Retailers are making it easy to stay informed about upcoming sales, thanks to e-mail alerts and Facebook updates. But how often have you left a coupon at home or failed to print it from your inbox? Mobile coupons to the rescue! Tools like the Coupon Sherpa mobile app give you access to mobile coupons to use in-store. Just pull up the offer and hand your smartphone to the cashier. Phew!

3. Shop Thursdays
While online shopping experiences a spike in sales on Mondays, department stores often mark down clothing on Thursdays in anticipation of weekend shoppers. Save your Saturday for lunch with the girls and a matinee, and turn Thursday afternoon into a savvy shopping day. For more tips on the best times of the week to shop, consult SmartMoney's guide.

4. Retain Receipts
In an effort to de-clutter our cars, purses and file cabinets, receipts are often tossed immediately after a purchase. However, it's a good idea to hang onto receipts for up to 30 days should the item you bought receive a price reduction. Keeping tabs on an item you've already purchased can score you unexpected savings.

5. Gift Yourself (and Your Wallet)
If you're anything like me, you've already burned through those gifts cards you received over the holidays. Nothing compares to spending someone else's money on something you want, but using a discount gift cards comes pretty close. Save up to 35 percent instantly when you buy gift cards at less than face value from such sites as GiftCardGranny.

6. Shop Seasonal Sales
This one's a no-brainer but with "80-percent off" promotions cluttering my inbox, I'd be remiss not to mention it. Shopping for winter clothing as retailers gear up for the spring and summer fashions will land you great deals on warm clothing to wear both now and after beach season is a distant memory.

7. Reward Yourself
Most credit cards have a rewards program, so take a look at your account to determine if you can redeem points for gift cards. If you have the budget and are disciplined enough to pay off your credit card every month, you might consider charging everyday expenses on your card to increase those reward points and pay for "fun" stuff with earned points. If you're credit card doesn't earn points, check out this list from CreditCards.com to find ones that do.

Glam Up Your Bathroom!

I am addicted to the houzz.com design web site. With over 200,00 home decor images to look at even a picky glamour gal like me can find inspiring ideas! Here are some inspiring bathrooms packed with fabulous ideas.

contemporary bathroom design by houston interior designer Montgomery Roth Architecture & Interior Design

The circular pattern in this black and white bathroom is a bit bold for my taste, but looking past the supersized pattern I can see some great ideas at work. The use black and white in the bathroom is a design idea worth copying. Black and white furnishings timeless and foolproof. You can always add a splash of color with your towels and shower curtain. Wall sconces on the sides of the mirror provide the best light for applying makeup.

traditional bathroom design by chicago kitchen and bath Jane Kelly, Designer for Airoom LLC

The chandelier in the ceiling turns this already elegant bathroom into the kind of showstopper I would expect to find at a fancy hotel. I like the fact that the chandelier doesn't hang down too low, which means you don't have to have 20 foot ceilings in your bathroom to make room for the chandelier.

contemporary bathroom design by seattle design-build Sellentin True Design Build

If you look past the modern fixtures, you will see some old fashioned glamour at work. On the right hand side the shower curtains is hung with decorative chains giving it an elongated look which is a great trick for small bathrooms. The tall mirror also creates the illusion of height and looking at the ceiling you will see a  small chandelier type hanging whose real purpose seems to be taking attention away from the ugly spotlight it's hanging from.

 

Save Money at Whole Foods

Whole Foods grocery has lots of healthy products, but their inflated prices aren't good for my financial health! Shopping at Whole foods without spending a fortune requires some simple strategies. Whole Foods is where I shop after hitting my local Target and/or Trader Joe's store. The organic products that I can't find at those lower priced stores are the ones I shop for at Whole Foods. I have learned from having to throw out expired perishible fruits and vegetables to buy fresh products in smaller quanities. Instead of buying a big bunch of bananas I will split that bunch in half and buy only a few bananas.

When Whole Foods puts nonperishible or frozen products that I normally buy on sale I stock up. After my most recent shopping trip I have enough canned soup to last for weeks! The down side of stocking up on sale items is that it temps me to buy bad products.

I bought several almond yogurts in various flavors because it was on sale. When I got up to the cash register the cashier told me that if I bought 2 more I would get a 10% case discount. Yippee! I snapped up 2 more almond yogurts and got my extra 10% discount. When I got home I tore open a container and after a few bites it was obvious I did NOT want to eat 9 more containers of this product, so immediately I returned all the unopened containers of yogurt and got my money back with no problem. Yes, you can return food at Whole Foods with a receipt! The 10% off case price is good on products throughout the store, look for the quanitiy that makes a "case" on the price label.

 

Remodeled Gives an Insider Look at Modeling

The difference between the new TV show Remodeled and the TV show Americas Next Top Model is that Remodeled is actually about the modeling business! While Americas Next Top Model features a bunch of contrived challenges and cat fights to create the usual reality show manufactured and melodramatic drama, Remodeled offers a real look at the modeling business from a man who is not only a legend in the business, but also a legend in his own mind judging by his attitude. 

Modeling industry veteran Paul Fisher is working to bring together hundreds of small modeling agencies from around the world as part of his new venture called The Network. In order to achieve this goal and give the major New York modeling agencies a run for their money (literally) Paul has to overhaul the smaller underperforming agencies one at a time.

Dealing with issues ranging from getting models to sign exclusive contracts to following models on go sees with runway casting directors may not sound like riveting entertainment, but it is! I love this show. Paul's assistant Joseph dresses like an aspiring goth and wears more eye makeup than the models. While Paul offers drama and keen business insights, Joseph offers comic relief by making snarky comments

Turn Everyday Items Into Fabulous Home Decor Pieces

The following tips and images sent to me by Marijana Gucunski were so fabulous I had to share. Here's what Marijana has to say about upcycling:

 You need a home décor revamp, but don’t want to spend a lot of money. With a bit of creativity, you can turn everyday items into fabulous décor pieces.

Here are a few unique ways to add some excitement to your home, while giving everyday household items a second life:

1. Turn an old picture frame into a vanity tray. Whether you keep the frame “as is” with old photograph and all or insert patterned gift wrap in the frame, picture frames make a terrific vanity tray.  The frame edges keep items from sliding off, while the glass top can be easily cleaned. Try painting the frame if you need a quick color boost.

 

 

 

2. Re-use a sleek wine bottle as a vase.  Once you’ve enjoyed your favorite wine, turn it into a great home décor piece for fresh flowers.  Bonus: Try adding champagne colored stones into an empty VOGA Italia Wine Moscato bottle to match the gorgeous champagne colored detailing.

 

 

3.  Turn cake pedestals into decorative displays. If you think cake pedestals look gorgeous with a tasty Red Velvet cake on top, try using them as a decorative piece for candles, flowers and more.  You’ll free up a ton of space in your kitchen cabinet, while adding an exciting touch to any rooms’ décor.

 

 

 

 

4.  Turn old clothing into throw pillows.  Turn outgrown, outworn or stained clothing into great throw pillows.  Just because the elbows are worn on that flowered top you love, or those lipstick red skinny pants no longer fit you, doesn’t mean they should hit the can.  Cut two squares of equal size from your clothing of choice, sew the edges and fill with pillow stuffing. 

 

Follow Marijana Gucunski at 5W Public Relations | www.5wpr.com, and: Facebook.com/5WPublicRelations | Twitter.com/5W_PR

You need a home décor revamp, but don’t want to spend a lot of money. With a bit of creativity, you can turn everyday items into fabulous décor pieces.

Here are a few unique ways to add some excitement to your home, while giving everyday household items a second life:

1. Turn an old picture frame into a vanity tray. Whether you keep the frame “as is” with old photograph and all or insert patterned gift wrap in the frame, picture frames make a terrific vanity tray.  The frame edges keep items from sliding off, while the glass top can be easily cleaned. Try painting the frame if you need a quick color boost.

 

2. Re-use a sleek wine bottle as a vase.  Once you’ve enjoyed your favorite wine, turn it into a great home décor piece for fresh flowers.  Bonus: Try adding champagne colored stones into an empty VOGA Italia Wine Moscato bottle to match the gorgeous champagne colored detailing.

 

3.  Turn cake pedestals into decorative displays. If you think cake pedestals look gorgeous with a tasty Red Velvet cake on top, try using them as a decorative piece for candles, flowers and more.  You’ll free up a ton of space in your kitchen cabinet, while adding an exciting touch to any rooms’ décor.

 

4.  Turn old clothing into throw pillows.  Turn outgrown, outworn or stained clothing into great throw pillows.  Just because the elbows are worn on that flowered top you love, or those lipstick red skinny pants no longer fit you, doesn’t mean they should hit the can.  Cut two squares of equal size from your clothing of choice, sew the edges and fill with pillow stuffing. 

 

5. Reuse glass bottles as soap dispensers.  Use a glass soda bottle, wine bottle or liquor bottle to dispense your hand soap, body oil or body wash.  Opt for your favorite liquor bottle for an edgy feel or try a basic clear bottle for a clean and fresh touch. 

 

6. Turn old jam jars into hanging candle holders.  You’ll be reminded of your childhood days chasing fireflies.  For an elegant, yet fun touch to your indoor or outdoor décor, wrap wire around the lip of old jam jars and create a hanging loop.  Display under porch beams, curtain rods or anywhere you need a playful touch.

 

 

For more information on turning everyday items into home décor pieces, please contact me at 212.584.4279 or mgucunski@5wpr.com.

 

Thanks!

Marijana

 

 

Marijana Gucunski

Senior Account Executive

5W Public Relations | www.5wpr.com

888 7th Avenue, 12th Floor | New York, NY 10106

Direct: 212.584.4279 | Main: 212.999.5585 | mgucunski@5wpr.com

 

Be sure to follow us: Facebook.com/5WPublicRelations | Twitter.com/5W_PR

Simply Cheap and Easy Entertaining Ideas

Unlike Martha Stewart, my idea for entertaining do NOT involve a hiring so many cooks and food servers that the staff outnumber the guests. The point of getting together socially with friends and family is to relax and have fun, why make it complicated? Keep things simple and affordable with a "Simple Pleasures Party".  As the name suggests, you will not be whipping up a lavish banquet big enough to feed a small third world country or hiring a professional magician to entertain. Keeping things simple not only reduces stress on the host, it cuts down on costs as well.

For entertainment, keep things simple by offering games and activities that are easy to pick up on quickly. This Jeweled Vintage Couture 550-Piece Fashion Puzzle - A Magestic Train Ride for $9.99 is the perfect activity for a small gathering because it's an ongoing project. If a guest shows up a little late they can still participate without interrupting the flow of activity.

After playing the game Monopoly I unofficially renamed the game MONOTONY for how long and tedious it is. A faster, cheaper and a lot more fun game choice is the Uno Card Game. This game has enough strategy to keep things interesting but it's still simple enough to learn that guests can pick up on it right away. It's also short enough to appeal to short attention spans.

 

 

Now that the entertainment is taken care of, it's time to eat! Forget about serving soda pop. Unless you are holding your party at the local Walmart you will be able to stock everyone's favorite fizzy drink, there are simply too many options. Instead of soda, serve something easy like flavored tea. Buy a few blended flavored teas, like this Good Earth Organic Green Tea, Mango, Peach and Pineapple 18-Count Tea Bags. With so much flavor going on you won't have to worry about extras like sugar and honey. For snacks serve cheap filling food like a can of deluxe mixed nuts (not cheap) mixed into a bowl with a bag of pretzels (super cheap). A bag of cheddar popcorn, seasoned chips or goodies from the bakery section of your local Walmart or Target are also great munchies.

Z Gallerie Sale Makes it Easy to Be Glamourous for Less

Nobody does glamourous home decor like Z Gallerie! Whenever I get tired of the beige offerings of Pottery Barn and the contemporary style of Crate and Barrel seems to lack sparkle, I can always pop into my local Z Gallerie for a dose of major glamour. The attitude is major, but the prices are pretty minor.

Small dinky vases are for wimps. Go big and go bold (without going broke) with this 15.5” by 15.75” Carlisle Vase on sale for $23.89.  The oversized rounded shape of deeply fluted Aubergine glass showcase the quality of this handblown glass pieces. This vase makes a dramatic decorative piece by itself or serves as a practical container for an abundant floral arrangement.

 

The right time to invest in a stylish clock is when it's on sale!  The tradition of displaying antique pocket watches is the inspiration of this stylish Notting Hill Table Clock on sale for $14.99 which offers a fresh take on decorative timepieces. The removable 5.5 inch diameter clock is partnered with an equally stylish chrome stand. Total height is 15 inches.

 

The only thing better than reading high fashion  glossy magazines is decorating with them! This brilliant Couture May 1958 wall art on sale for $44.99 art print is designed to look like the front of a high fashion magazine. It's mounted on a high gloss laminate box that captures the colorful drama of this photograph beautifully and makes subtle reference to the idea of a glossy magazine cover hanging on your wall.

 

 

Get Better Looking Skin with Alpha Hydrox Cream

Beauty creams have often been called "hope in a jar", meaning they often give false hope. The only "hope" I associate with Alpha hydrox AHA Souffle with 12% Glycolic AHA beauty cream is that I hope I don't run out soon! Alpha hydrox AHA Souffle with 12% Glycolic AHA is the first beauty cream where I can see and feel a difference in my skin after only a few days. The 12% Glycolic AHA is strong enough to do some serious exfoliating leaving my skin a little smoother and softer in texture. I'm not talking about some miraculous transformation where I suddenly look 20 years younger. I'm simply talking about the product being strong enough for me to feel like it's doing something and I am getting my money's worth. Because it's a drugstore/mass retailer brand it doesn't have the hype and the high price of a fancy brand.

Hot Deals on Cold Weather Coats

 

Now is a great time to shop for cold weather wear. It's still early enough in the season that the stock hasn't been picked over so much that the only budget friendly offerings are sizes small, extra small and nonexistent. Kohls has a nice selection of coats that designed to fit your budget and your sense of style. The bright blue and lightweight (not bulky) fabric of this Apt. 9 Solid Peacoat on sale for $64.99 gives the classic Peacoat a fresh and contemporary look and feel.

Be the commander in chic and take charge of your cold weather wardrobe with this Honee Military Coat on sale $75.00. With the military inspired details, princess seams and fitted cut flatter your figure and removable faux-fur collar adding dramatic appeal, you will easily win the battle against boring outerwear.

 

Can a coat look sassy and sophisticated at the same time? Yes! This Giacca Wool Walker Coat on sale $110.00 flaunts a red hot hue, big contrasting buttons and a dramatic high collar. The tailored cut and body skimming silhouette give the coat a polished look that complements the bold flourishes beautifully.

Clearance Sale Offers a Houseful of Chic Finds

Gaudy holiday ornaments and gym memberships aren't the only things on sale in January. Pier 1 Imports has a ton of home decor items on sale that don't have a Santa Claus on them!

If losing weight is your new year's resolution then the smell of this Apple Crisp Filled Candle on sale for $9.98 might be detrimental to your diet! The beauty of this candle is that it is housed in a beautiful glass container embellished with an ornate pattern and the container can be used long after the candle and the tempting scent of apple crisps is long gone.

 

These Ceramic Cutout Gold Glam Vases on sale for $29.98 each are wonderful examples of modern glamour. The sleek silhouette is modern, while the and intriguing cut-out detail and shiny gold finish amps up the glamour. To carry out the modern glamour theme, fill the vase with only white flowers. That way the color of the flowers looks fresh without upstaging the vase with a bright color.

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If your living room looks like it has shifted into neutral, wake it up with some bright pillows. Floral patterns can often look too cute, too frilly or too much like something from grandma's house. This Embroidered Jacobean Floral Pillow for $23.88 avoids those common floral cliches with bold colors and an exotic design that suggest it was imported from some faraway land. 

 

Macy Clearance Sales Make it Affordable to Look Great

I went shopping at the mall recently and it was chaos! The mass of shoppers clogging the stores and tying up the cashiers makes shopping online even more appealing. Like the shopping mall, there are lots of clearance sales to be found shopping online at places like Macys.com.

This INC International Concepts Sweater, Three Quarter Sleeve Zigzag Knit Metallic on sale for $49.99 has the kind of subtle shimmer that adds enough pizazz to this purple top to make it the perfect piece for a fun girls night out or date night without making you look like an aspiring disco queen. The simple and relaxed silhouette shows off the zig zag pattern and shimmering texture to the best advantage. 

These  T Tahari Earrings, Gold Tone Chain Link Hoop Earrings on sale for $19.99 take a bold approach to the classic hoop earring by using a contemporary chain link design that will look just as fresh and modern next year as it does today. Depending on what you wear these with, the earrings could easily go from the boardroom to the bar scene with ease.

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It's been such an unusually warm winter in some areas that a stylish pair of rainboots is all you need to stay dry and comfortably chic. I was delighted to see these Bandolino Shoes, Giantleap Rain Boots on sale for $39.50. I was concerned that the only clearance shoes I would find would be strappy summer sandals or high heels so tall they give me vertigo. The black patent texture and sleek silhouette makes this one of the sexiest rainboots I have ever seen.

Stock Up Sale At ULTA!

Is it possible to go broke saving money?  That's the question I asked myself when I saw how many of my favorite products and brands are on sale at the mega beauty store ULTA. I can't list all the frugal and fabulous products on sale here, but I can share with you some of my favorite deals. There are buy 1 get 1 50% off sales on select hair care products (including essentials like shampoo), several brands of makeup from popular brands such as Revlon, Cover Girl and Maybelline, and the veggie loving Yes to Carrots skin care line. My strategy for shopping the ULTA sale without going nuts (or broke) was to focus on the buy 1 get 1 50% off items and buy only 2 products from different categories. Instead of buying 10 bottles of shampoo, I bought 2 bottles of shampoo on sale, then moved onto the skincare section to buy 2 bottles of face cleanser on sale also, then checked out the facial moisturizers on sale.  Then if I still had cash to burn, I allowed myself to indulge in a bargain priced cosmetic. If you shop at a physical bricks and mortar store, be sure sign up for their mailing list because their mailers always include coupons. Happy shopping!