Living a Champagne Living style on a budget that’s more Cold Duck than Cristal means making choices. Some are more difficult than others, and some are easy. While I may have spent time each year in Europe, it doesn’t mean that underneath it all I’m wearing Chantal Thomas. Well…at least not ALL of the time.
That brings up my question:
What do you scrimp on and what do you splurge on?
We each have different priorities, and a treat to one may be essential for someone else. That being said there are things that we can save a LOT of money on in order to spend where it counts.
1. Underneath it all
socks, bras & panties…oh my
No one will see them but YOU. So, why are you spending $25 on ONE thong, when you could be saving that for a fabulous classic tank watch that you’ll be wearing for the rest of your life? Don’t get me wrong, I don’t suggest you buy plain white granny panties. I’m just saying that you can find similar styled unmentionables for prices you won’t mind mentioning.
2. Go Drugstore or Go Home
While I love the scent of my Costes bath gel, I also love the anti-aging results I get from Olay Total Effects body wash. The difference? Over $40 when I compare sizes and price. Yes, I do use Costes when I need a little lift, but my skin looks and feels BETTER with Olay than my favorite scented French product.
3. Target – my not so little secret
Love that t-shirt I have on, or that gorgeous bookcase that looks like a NY Penthouse built-in in my dining room? You can find those and more at Target. Basics are anything BUT basic at my favorite store to grab everything from Pixi lip gloss to a designer look alike cotton skirt. I even to stock up on groceries after trying on my all-time-favorite flowing yoga pants that are marketed as sleep pants. It’s NO secret that I’m there at LEAST once a week.
4. Be Street Smart
Scarves and other goodies that are sold on the street corner or open air markets in big cities are a BARGAIN…and the best part…YOU can bargain with the vendors and get that already low price down just a bit lower. Last week I bought a pair of adorable leather hurraches from a vendor in Mexico. He was asking $45 US…after laughing and beginning my bargaining banter, I ended up with them on my feet for a LOT less than ½ price…a LOT less.
5. Swap it don’t drop it
I’ve been guilty of bagging up those shoes, handbags and dresses that I no longer wear and DROPPING them into my nearest Goodwill bin. While that’s a noble thing to do, why not call the girls over for a swap-it evening of martini’s as you try on some new old clothes that they bring over? If size is an issue, why not just do an accessory swap of handbags, scarves & jewelry?
6. Workout wear
***cough, cough – or in my case – at home wear
Sweating with the oldies, or a LaBlast class with Louis van Amstel, either way that tank and those capris you’re wearing are getting a MAJOR workout along with you. Believe me, NO ONE is looking at the label on your sweat shirt, they’re too busy trying to keep up with the instructor. Remember that pair of jammy bottoms that I LOVE at Target? That’s right, they’re my go-to’s for yoga class, for walking Clem in the neighborhood, and yes even hanging out.
The list could go on and on. You can still look and live an elegantly chic lifestyle, and even SPEND on those things that REALLY make you happy. Just remember that you can save as well on the little things that don’t make a big difference.
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