~*♥*~Cheapanista~*♥*~

...Angela M. from New Bedford, MA. Thanks to everyone who participated and the homeless guy at the Shell gas station who picked the random number. Angela has already received her winnings and I hope to do more contests in the future.

I just moved into a new place so it's taking a while to settle in and as soon as I do, I promise new posts on living the cheap life. =) Share

I enjoy beauty treatments almost as much as I enjoy spending money wisely and paying less whenever I can. And if like me, your name isn't Elin Nordegren and you didn't just receive a $750 divorce settlement, chances are you do too. For the longest time, I spent money on my hair, nails and other necesitties without a care simply because I could afford it. But not anymore.

HAIR & NAILS
When my hair is not braided or weaved- which is always free courtesy of my mother, I spent $180 to have it washed and blown just the way I like with an additional $172 for French Mani/Pedis at a local nail spa- excluding tips. It's not a lot considering that it only adds up to $352 for an eight week period, but as the queen of thrifty I knew I could do better.

I recently started going to my local Cosmetology school to get my hair and nails done. And for the ridiculous prices they offer these services for, I don't mind that under the (close) supervision of a licensed cosmetologist, a student will wash, blow and iron or curl my hair for the amazingly low price of $11 and a quality hot oil french manicure costs me $5.


BODY & SKIN
I grew up in Dakar,Senegal- where exfoliating skin in the shower is a daily routine. I still use the same scrubbing fishnets (sprinkled with baby oil) I used to whether I am taking a shower or a bath. But the one thing that always changes is the shower gel I fall in love with. My recent favorite was Bath & Body Works' $10.50 per 10 oz. That is until I discovered the better and much cheaper- at a mere $3.49 per 12 oz. version from Suave.


MIND & SOUL
It's true that the best things in life are free and when it comes down to it nothing beats borrowing a must read book or the latest DVD release from the Library. Share

When it comes to feet,Sam Edelman shoes are some of the most fashionable and comfortable shoes on the planet. For the longest time, I've dreamt of owning a few pairs but just couldn't justify the prices to myself. Well, on one of my recent trips to a discount retail, I stumbled upon cheapanista heaven. Rows, upon rows of Sam Edelman, L.A.M.B, Coach and Michael Kors shoes at prices so low only Marshalls' could pull this off. Since I live in the beautiful State of Massachusetts where there are no sales taxes on shoes and clothing (I know you are jealous now), I bought the above pair on sale for $44. I love my Sammies so much I still keep them in the box when unworn.

But to be honest, the best part about owning a pair of the Daria sandals isn't the many compliments I get every time I step out in them or how beautiful they are ( and make my feet look). It's that at this very moment, they are still being sold at retail stores for $125 and up. So take that Sam Edelman. I ♥ you, but as a true cheapanista, I don't love you enough to give you more money than I really have to.

There are a lot of places online and off where you can find the same great shoes cheaper than at department or specialty stores. If the thought of waiting for a layaway to clear makes you wanna hurl, then look for places like HSN and QVC. They offer high quality products (anything from Kitchenware to designer duds) with flexpay options. And nothing beats cheap, interest free monthly payments. Share

Since I just started blogging, I think the best way to introduce myself is by holding the first of many blog giveaways to come. So, if you'd like to win $100 or an Ipod nano with a $25 gift card, just follow these simple steps.





1♥ First of, join us on Facebook by clicking here.

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-Entries must be received by midnight on 9/05/2010.

-Open to anyone 13 and older.

-One winner will be randomly selected and notified by email on or before 9/18/2010
.
-This giveaway is operated by Cheapanista.com and as such, Cheapanista.com's decision is final. No alternative is available. The prize only includes what is expressly stated and includes Western Union fees.

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As any savvy cheapanista out there will tell you, the end of a season is always the right time to score on the best deals of the year. Since it’s almost fall, stores everywhere are marking down summer inventory to make way for new arrivals. When it comes to fashion, trends may come and go but out of season never means out of style, so we know that the best time to stock up on great pieces for next summer is right now. Here are 10 key summer wardrobe pieces you should focus on when cruising the clearance rack.

1. Maxi and Wrap Dresses: When it comes to being forgiving on weight gain, nothing comes close to the Maxi or the wrap. These two are truly the staples of summer. Look for bold prints when it comes to shopping for maxi dresses and bright colors for wrap dresses.

2. Bermuda Shorts: If booty shorts and Capris’ had a child, then the Bermuda shorts would be it. The fun, versatile and comfy look is in my opinion, the go to for summer. They look great with espadrilles, peep toes, blazers or just a plain tank tee.


3. Shoes: The four summer shoes that will never go out of style are flip-flops, embellished flats, wedges/espadrilles and my favorite go to shoe, the peep toe heels. Chances are, if you look in your closet, you have more than one pair of each of these styles mentioned.

4. Sunglasses: Aviators, wayfarer and (the not for everyone) Jackie O. oversized shades are what comes to mind. Make sure you get the second opinion of a trusted friend because nothing is worse than a face drowning in sunglasses- well maybe a face trying to eat one.

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