Shopping on a shoestring budget

Don't break even in cases of emergency - I see you!!!

Money is tight and yet the stores keep churning out things to lust over. This becomes a bummer when you still have other responsibilities but shopping is a habit you just can’t break. Right now most peeps are trying to map a financial way forward, with bills to pay and mouths to feed. Should this then be the end of your shopping addiction? Not entirely. There’s still room for you to get everything you need to get done and a few shopping outings as well. Good news right? Want to know how? Read on to get the lowdown on how to still maintain your habit when the going gets tough.

At this point it’s crucial to know how to still look fabulous on a shoestring budget. Here’s where I come in – one has to recognise what’s worth splurging on and what’s not. Whether it’s in season or not that’s beside the point. It’s best to spend your cash on things you can use over and over and won’t regret splurging on.

Invest in everyday basics that you can use in multiple ways and in different settings. One can never go wrong with splurging on a well-cut black blazer which is perfect for formal and informal occasions, an LBD – little black dress, for those cocktail events and dates you get invited too – whoop whoop, a pair of jeans that actually fit, a statement t-shirt which can be worn with just about anything, a classic crisp white shirt which can go from office to playtime real quick. Don’t forget the number one accessory – the only worthwhile accessory you need right now is a tote bag that can go from boardroom to your local cafe as quick as you can snap your fingers. Round off your shopping with classic black heels and you’re good to go.

Another thing - a classic black pant- suit will get you through all year round and will have you doing that Naomi Campbell walk like never before - if you see it on sale, check that everything is still intact and grab it for dear life.

Your hair might be your crown but your skin is everything. If you must compromise this time of year – don’t compromise on skin care. Cutting corners may give you results you were not looking for so when it comes to the products that you use stick to what works best for you. It’ here were I give you permission to ignore the price tag and score big - the results are totally worth the investment.

Every woman loves shoes, but now is not the time to get two extra pairs of shoes or the same shoe in every colour. You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of quality pumps or ballet flats. Choose a neutral tone that can be worn with almost every look you rock. If you can only wear it once – don’t waste your cash on it.

We all love to feel fresh when we jump out the bath or shower, most of us run to the aisles with the decadent and luxurious bath products – our pockets however, are saying a completely different story; cutting down here is totally acceptable, after all, it’s all going down the drain anyway– just make sure what you do get is moisturizing and that’s good enough.

Don’t blow your bank account on cosmetics such as lip glosses, lipsticks, blushes and eyeliner. There’s no shame in buying the less expensive brands when it comes to these at the moment. Later on in the year or the next when your finances are more stabilised you can definitely spoil yourself.

Remember the fact that it’s on sale doesn’t necessarily mean you need it, flee from the 50% off sales if there’s nothing there for you. That’s impulse buying and it’s not going to do you any good. If you don’t need it don’t buy it- simple.

With most trends having fully kicked in for the year; you might be itching to get on board but with the pinch in your wallet – it’s best to hold on a little longer and just buy what’s necessary and lasting. After all trends rarely last and it’s up to you to stay classy and out of debt. Out of debt is staying winning.

Happy Shopping!!!!