It’s a given that shopping involves spending money, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be smart about it and save a few dollars along the way! There are plenty of tips and tricks to help you save money while you shop. And in girl math, the money you save is just extra earnings in your pocket! From browser extensions to the best times to shop, consider this your savvy shopping guide.
Use these tips to save money the next time you go shopping:
Use Browser extensions, such as Honey
If you’re new to the world of browser extensions, you’re in for a treat. Honey, for example, is completely free to download, and it automatically searches for coupon codes while you shop. At checkout, you just click the Honey extension, and it does the rest – trying any and all recent coupon codes that customers have used on the specific site you’re shopping at. (Not sponsored, we just love it).
Wait for sales
It goes without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway – wait for sales. Especially if you’re planning on going on a shopping spree. That way, you’ll only spend a fraction of what you normally would. Different stores and brands have varying sale patterns, but dates like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day, and towards the end of each season, are safe bets to expect markdowns. Also… you already know we love a good warehouse sale.
Make Wish Lists
One of the best ways to save money is by avoiding impulse buys. Keep a shopping wish list on hand and try not to stray from it. For example, if you notice a particular gap in your wardrobe, jot it down in your notes app and focus on shopping for the things on your wish list rather than just aimlessly shopping. You can also make wish lists directly on most online retailer’s websites in order to keep tabs on your most coveted pieces.
Pay With A Credit Card
You have to be careful with this one, as it can be all too easy to slip into debt, but simply paying with your credit card instead of debit or cash (only spending the amount you would on debit or cash, anyway) can earn you points and cashback (depending on your plan), but it also allows you to shop in a secure way.
Sign-Up For Emails
As much as no one likes receiving too many branded emails in their inbox, you never know when that one email with a coupon code or information on a limited-time sale will come in. It’s definitely worth signing up for your favourite brand’s email subscriptions! Fun fact: In our weekly newsletter, we always include a round-up of 20 sales happening at the moment. 😉
Join Rewards Programs
Almost every brand you shop at likely has some kind of rewards program at this point. Be sure to join the reward programs from your favourite brands to get all kinds of perks. Sephora, for example, offers a point-based rewards program, where you can earn points to get free products or money off – plus get access to exclusive discounts during sale times.
Know The Return Policy
We’ve all been guilty of buying an item, it not working out, and then it just ends up staying in the bag past the literal point of no return. Before buying anything, make sure to know the return policy, and actually return within the return window if it doesn’t end up working out! Otherwise, you might as well just throw out your money.
Compare Prices
Shopping savvy is all about making informed shopping decisions. Before pulling the trigger on a specific item, do your research to ensure you’re getting the best price.
Use Coupons
Whether you’re shopping online or in person, never neglect the power of a coupon! Browse the internet, check your mail for flyers, and tune into your favourite influencers offering discount codes!
Do Your Own Quality Inspecting
When shopping in person, always do your own quality inspection. Check for any flaws, loose seams, or signs of a poorly made item. Follow @wangjenniferr on TikTok for tips on what to look for when checking garments for quality. When shopping online, be sure to perform your own little inspection when you receive it before pulling off any tags.
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All items featured in this article were independently selected by our team. By shopping through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Are you looking for easy ways to incorporate money savings tips? Grocery shopping can seriously rack up the bills if you’re not paying attention to the items you’re purchasing, or worse—shopping on an empty stomach. There are small adjustments you can make during your next supermarket run to ensure you’re not shocked at the total when you’re checking out.
Here are tips and tricks to save money while grocery shopping.
Download Grocery Apps
Check out grocery apps to compare flyers, coupons, and prices all in one place! These apps do all of the work, so you don’t have to. Some even have points programs and cash-back incentives.
Stick To Your Grocery List
Thoroughly plan out your grocery list before heading out to the stores and be sure to stick to it. Following your detailed list will stop you from spending unnecessary money on items you probably don’t need. Skip the snack isle and avoid browsing sections of the store that don’t have the foods on your list.
Know Food Prices
Be sure to have an idea of the prices of the foods you are buying regularly. This will help you figure out when prices go up or down, or even compare prices between other grocery stores to score the best deal possible.
Shop The “Reduced” Section
Don’t forget to make a stop by the “reduced” section at your local grocery shop. You’ll typically find ripe produce that is great for baking or making smoothies—at a much cheaper cost. You could even get day-old bread that’s still good for eating or even making croutons and French toast! This is your chance to get creative in the kitchen while saving some cash.
Stock Up On Coupons
If your go-to grocer has flyers handy in-store or online, be sure to browse before heading out. Never miss out on deals on items that are on your list.
Shop the store brand
Typically, the no-name or store brand is just as good as other brands, without the higher price tag. Save money this way especially when shopping for pasta, canned goods, and produce.
Sales Days
The next time you’re grocery shopping, ask an employee which day they usually have sales on, so you can learn when the best time is to visit. This can help you plan out your trips better and receive awesome discounts while you’re at it!
Shop At “Cheaper” Grocery Stores
It’s no secret that grocery stores like Fortinos and Longos are more expensive to shop at than grocery stores like No Frills and Walmart. If you’re trying to save money while stocking up – shopping at budget grocery stores is the way to go.
Price Match
Check if any grocery stores around you price match! This way no matter where you’re shopping, you know you’ll always be getting the lowest possible price.
Don’t Over-Stock
Going hand-in-hand with making a grocery list and sticking to it, ensure you know how many groceries you actually need. All too often we over-stock and end up having to throw out expired food. Which is super wasteful and can be easily avoided. When in doubt, less is more. You can always go back out if you need more groceries.
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Makeup can get quite pricey, especially if you’re loyal to designer makeup brands. The good news is that there are actually a handful of discount beauty websites to shop at that your wallet will thank you for. Plus, even some beloved stores have an awesome sale section for designer finds! Not only do these shops help you hunt down the best high-end makeup deals, but some of them also help you save on all your favourite drugstore beauty products.
Here are places to purchase designer makeup.
Winners & Marshalls
Winners and Marshalls are mainly recognized for having incredible deals on designer clothes, handbags, and home decor. And while all that is good, they also have a beauty section with some worthwhile deals. Their selection is limited at times, but they carry designer makeup and skincare products for 60% off the original price, and professional hair tools for under $40.
Rue La La
Like HauteLook, Rue La La’s sales are an ever-changing, moving target. But when you manage to spot a deal on your favourite designer product, it’s always a big one. For example, instead of paying $70 for a Laura Mercier palette, you’d get it for $18. This site also ships worldwide, so no matter where you are, you can take advantage of these amazing discounted prices.
Beauty Encounter
Beauty Encounter is great for a number of reasons, but their best feature is likely that they carry high-end and drugstore products at a discounted price, all under one virtual roof. So, instead of having to pick up that reliable Cover Girl mascara you’ve been using for years, and that Christian Dior foundation at two different stores, you can order them both from the same place, and both will be on sale.
BuyMeBeauty
BuyMeBeauty has all the beauty cult-favourites, at majorly discounted prices, and if that wasn’t already enough, their shipping is only $5. Sometimes we fill our online shopping carts and then realize that the shipping cost is through the roof, so we ditch our entire order. But Buy Me Beauty makes sure that you can put the better part of your budget towards products instead of delivery.
Glambot
Glambot is particularly interesting because it is the consignment of beauty products. Most people think that buying gently used items is limited to consignment clothing stores, but Glambot has broken all the rules. Here, you can find gently used designer makeup products for a fraction of the original price. You also have the option of selling any products you may have to linger around that you haven’t really used, for cash that you can put towards other items.
Saks Off 5th
The American discounted department store chain was founded in 1990, and is a subsidiary of the luxury department store chain Saks Fifth Avenue. Shop designer makeup brands like Chanel, Gucci, Dior, and more for up to 70% off.
Image Beauty
Image Beauty is great for a lot more than just makeup. Here you can find hair care products, hair tools, fragrances, skincare products, bath & body products, and of course, makeup — all for a great deal. Like Beauty Encounter, they carry high-end and drugstore products, and shipping is free on orders over $55.
Sephora
The beauty giant, Sephora, carries makeup, skincare, haircare, various fragrances, and more. The sale section is full of designer beauty finds at awesome discounts. Stock up on a whole new makeup collection here!
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At StyleDemocracy, we love smart shopping and know how to get the best value at your favourite stores. Hidden offerings, insider secrets and the ultimate savings…every week we share with you our favourite shopping tips and tricks to help make your next shopping trip as smooth as possible.
This time we’ve rounded up 11 thrift store shopping tips that will definitely help you score the best stuff. Check them out below:
Take your time
Inventory in a thrift store can be extremely overstocked, and messy. It’s important to go through items carefully, so you don’t miss out on any hidden gems that you may have blown past otherwise.
Instaram/ @vancouverdigs
Keep your smartphone handy
You never know what might be worth something substantial— so always keep your smartphone on you. Google will be your best friend when it comes to thrift shopping. With just a quick search, you’ll be able to weed out the junk, easily.
Keep in mind that alterations can be made
If you spot a pair of designer jeans that would be the perfect addition to your wardrobe, but are five sizes too big, just remember you can always take them in to be altered— and this goes for almost anything else; dresses, sweaters, jackets, pants, and so on.
Know what you’re looking for
Having an idea of what you’re on the hunt for, before you even show up to the store is usually a good idea. This way, you’ll walk in with a mission in mind, instead of sifting through endless styles hoping by chance you find something you like. If you have a plan, you can find exactly what you’re looking for plus a few extra goodies you picked up along the way.
Instagram/ @thriftedthis
But don’t rule anything out
Thrift shopping can be exhausting, because most of the time, things won’t just jump out at you and grab your attention. It’s important to keep an eye out for things that could be salvageable, or secretly valuable.
Know which stores to shop at
If you’re looking for a real treasure hunt, you should avoid places like Value Village or Salvation Army, and look at more independently owned consignment shops, vintage boutiques, and antique yard sales— that’s where you’ll find the good stuff!
Ask when new inventory comes in
Don’t be afraid to ask an employee when they receive their new shipments, because that will more than likely be the best time to shop— before everyone’s already had a chance to clean house, and leave you with slim pickings.
Instagram/ @thriftedthis
Learn how to haggle
Haggling wouldn’t be a very useful tool at places like Value Village, Salvation Army, or Good Will, but it will if you’re shopping smaller out-of-town consignment shops, vintage, or antique yard sales.
Wash it when you get home
This kind of goes without saying, but since the items are used— and you really don’t know their history—it’s best to give them a good wash before wearing them. Plus, it will get rid of the infamous closet smell that thrift buys inevitably have.
Get there early
The earlier in the day you get there, the better. You can beat the crowd, the store will be freshly organized, and best of all, anything new that has been put out overnight, will be yours for the taking.
Instagram/ @thriftedthis
Don’t be afraid to go thrift shopping while you travel
This one is very important. Limiting yourself to thrift shopping in your own city only, is going to cause you to miss out on some real winners. Thrift shops all have their own very unique inventory, so the further out you branch, the more opportunities you’re giving yourself to hunt down the best of the best. Try exploring rural areas near you— their consignment stores are nearly untouched —and if you’re ever travelling to foreign countries, be sure to keep an eye out for consignment boutiques, or thrift markets— this will be the best time to test out your new haggling skills!
Featured image: Instagram/ @thriftedthis
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When it comes to shopping, there are certain items that are worth spending a little extra money on, and certain things that you can get away with skimping out on. Things that you know you’ll get a ton of use out of, are things worth splurging on. But in the areas of your wardrobe where quantity beats quality, there’s plenty wiggle-room to save.
Check out a list of 5 wardrobe items to splurge on and 5 that can be saved on.
Splurge On:
1. Handbag
Instagram/ @peggy_loves
Handbags can get pricey, but they’re definitely worth the investment. With the right handbag, you may not have to upgrade for years to come, and if you pick one that’s neutral-coloured, you’ll be able to pair it with almost any outfit, for any occasion.
2. Blazer
Having a trusty, go-to blazer in your closet is always a good idea. Blazers are something that will never go out of style, and are extremely versatile. You can dress it up, and pair it with a mini-dress and heels for a night out, or a matching midi-skirt and turn it into a power-suit. You can also invest in an oversized one, and turn it into a dress, a look that is seriously trending right now.
3. Pumps
Instagram/ @stuartweitzman
You can never go wrong with a good pair of pumps. They’re a timeless classic that can take any outfit to the next level. But, you never want to take the cheapest route when it comes to heels, because usually, the cheaper they are, the more blisters they’re going to leave on your feet. Spending a little extra for guaranteed comfort is worth it.
4. Black Dress
A little black dress goes a long way. In fact, most of us have probably had the same little black dress in our wardrobes for years that we’ve worn to a million different things. They never go out of style, they match with everything, and they’re always a flattering choice on all body-types.
5. Jeans
Instagram/ @shophobnob
Finding a good, comfortable pair of jeans, that fits just right is an uphill battle —and most of the time if the price seems too good to be true, it’s because it is too good to be true. Cheap jeans are either too stiff, or stretch too much, fade easily, and become quickly worn. Stretching your budget for a good-fitting pair of jeans with a real life-span, is always worth the purchase.
Save On:
1. Jewelry
Instagram/ @mejuri
So long as you don’t have any allergies to cheap jewelry, buying it from Forever 21 might be the easier, more affordable option. Don’t get me wrong, it’s always nice to have a couple classic pieces of jewelry that you can keep forever — but buying fake jewelry allows you to buy more statement pieces to go with different outfits, the quality is decent, and it won’t break your heart if you accidentally lose a pair of $4 earrings.
2. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are things that are practically begging to be lost, broken, or stolen. I can’t even tell you how many pairs of sunglasses I go through every summer. So, opting for a pair of $7 sunglasses that are still just as stylish and sturdy as a pair of designer ones, has been a life-saver. Plus, it allows you to buy more pairs, for different looks.
3. Swimwear
Instagram/ @zaful
Designer swimwear is insanely pricey — and if you live in Canada, chances are, you have very few opportunities to wear a bathing suit each year, so spending copious amount on money on swimwear, just doesn’t make sense — especially since a $20 bikini is just as trendy, and will still get the job done.
4. Flats
Flats, unlike pumps, are almost always comfortable. So, why not spend $20 on a pair of loafers, and $15 on a pair of ballerina flats? Stock up your collection without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win.
5. Leggings
Women go through leggings like crazy, we basically need a pair for every day of the week. Buying that many high-end leggings would clean you out pretty fast. Try opting for cheap leggings at places like H&M, Forever 21, Sirens. Even Aritzia has leggings for under $25. It’s never been easier to own a fresh pair of leggings for working out, lounging, or just day-to-day wears.
Featured image: Instagram/ @nordstrom
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Food, rent, clothes: choose two. Now that we’re firmly in the millennial era of side hustles and skyrocketing costs of living, it can be hard to spare a second thought for replacing that pair of leggings you ripped a hole in that no one can really see if you’re careful. After all, you have more important things to buy, right?
Here’s how to shop for clothes on a budget, while staying on-trend with Instagram influencers who make it all look so effortless.
1. Look For Discount Codes
Pexels
Instagram influencers are great for getting ideas from, but the stuff they wear isn’t always accessible to the average budget. However, the secret to nabbing your favourite piece on a budget is a discount code, which your chosen influencer might have available in their captions or bio. Hold onto those codes and stack them on top of key sale times, and you can grab a bunch of clothing at once for way less than you’d pay at full price. Make sure to always peep who they tag for hints on which brands they’re rocking!
Some companies that have codes and discounts (and include plus sizes!): Fashion Nova, Pretty Little Thing, and BooHoo.
2. Grab Honey
Honey is a life saver (#NotSponsored). Whether you choose to install it on your browser or use it as an app, Honey scans every coupon, discount, and sale code available once you hit checkout on your haul. If you already have the best deal, Honey will tell you. But if you don’t? Watch Honey comb through tons of discounts you didn’t even know existed to get you the deal you deserve. Whether it’s a percentage off, or free shipping (especially helpful when buying from companies outside of Canada), Honey can save you money – maybe enough for just one more pair of slides.
3. Get Into Thrifting
Fast fashion (quickly, cheaply made pieces) has made clothing borderline disposable. Things go on and off trend so fast that people tend to get rid of things without a second thought. That’s where you benefit. Heading to more densely populated areas will net you some really good finds at their thrift stores, as they will have more selection and a bigger size range.
4. Shop Sales
Waiting for certain times of year can be extremely beneficial to your bank account. We all know that Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day are all good sale days, but American companies, in particular, have random sales based on holidays year-round. Look for days like President’s Day (the third Monday in February), Memorial Day (the last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4th), and Labour Day (September 1st). Those days are often used to either clear out old stock, offer free shipping, or briefly discount new merchandise.
5. Buy Off-Season
The best time to buy what you need is definitely not when you need it. While summer calls for swimsuits, it doesn’t exactly call for swimsuit sales. But early fall or even winter are great times to pick up deeply discounted swimwear. Same goes for winter coats -who needs one in April, as the spring blooms? (Unless you live in Edmonton, in which case you will probably need that coat until May or so.) Buying a winter coat after winter will guarantee you save at least a few dollars.
6. Carefully Curate Your Pieces
Instagram/@commonsort
One key to keeping your wardrobe low-cost is to be selective about what you buy. Look for good quality items that you can be sure you only have to buy once. While it may be tempting to buy a couple of the same shirt from a cheaper place, buying one good one for the same cost as those few will save you more money in the long run. A good example is leggings: rather than buying a bunch of cheap ones, I invested in a single $50 pair (which I only paid $30 for–thank you, sales) from Aritzia ten years ago. That same pair is still my go-to leggings to this day.
7. Find Inspiration, Then Start Shopping
One of my favourite things to do is window shop (but from the comfort of my own home, online, in my PJs). I often end up looking at gorgeous pieces that I know I’ll never be able to afford, and then I start hunting. Finding dupes of high-end clothing is not only a fun challenge but a great way to keep your wardrobe current and affordable. Forever 21 is a great place to start that journey, as they are quick to keep up with trends and turn out new product constantly. The key with this strategy is to be patient: you may not find what you want immediately, but you never know when the right jacket may cross your path.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help you build a wardrobe you can be proud of!
Featured image: Pexels
Let’s admit it, we all love online shopping: there’s no need to wait in lines and you can shop from the comfort of your home. However, with all the temptation that exists online, it’s easy to fall into the trap of spending a lot more money than you need to. But don’t worry, there are so many tips and tricks on how to save money when you shop online, some that you may not even be aware of. Add these tips to your usual shopping routine and you are guaranteed to save money on even the priciest items.
1. Sign up for your favourite retailers’ emails
You may be reluctant to give out your email out of fear of filling your inbox with things you don’t need. However, giving one of your favourite shopping sites your email will open you up to a brand new world of savings that you would not be aware of otherwise. When you subscribe to a site, you will always be on top of the latest deals. Soon, your inbox will be filled with giveaway opportunities, exclusive coupon codes, and notifications of upcoming sales. Some will even offer you a discount on your next purchase just for signing up!
2. Shop around online and compare prices
You should always compare different prices for the same item while shopping online. One of the best resources to do this is Google Shopping, which allows you to compare an item’s price at a number of online retailers. Also, keep your eyes open for sites that have limited-time coupon codes at the top, which could get you an extra discount or free shipping.
3. Don’t overpay for shipping
Ever shop online and find it impossible to hit the minimum spend and stick to your budget? For example, you qualify for free shipping with a minimum $30 purchase, however, every item online is priced at $25, so you end up buying $50 worth of merchandise. Retailers are very strategic when it comes to pricing and will find any way to get you to spend more than you may have intended in order to cover the costs of delivery (and then some). For e-retailers that also have brick-and-mortar locations, you should see if you can ship the item(s) to one of their stores for free, or if it’s currently available to shop in-store.
4. Check price matching policies
Believe it or not, a lot of big retailers (such as Hudson’s Bay and Nordstrom) have policies that will match their in-store/online prices with lower-selling prices from a competitor. You just have to make sure that the cheaper competitor item you’ve found is in the same size/colour as the one you want to purchase.
5. Stack up coupons with cash-back deals
If you haven’t signed up for cash-back, you are definitely missing out. Cash-back works by giving you back a percentage of the money you spend when shopping online. When you combine cash back with coupon codes, you save even more on your online purchases. Case in point: Ebates, which can give you up to 25% cash back at more than 750 online stores (including Joe Fresh, Sephora, and Banana Republic) Another extension that can help you save major is called Honey. It automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout for over 30,000 shopping sites.
You can also earn discounts on future purchases when you pay with your credit card. Many cards offer special rewards and cash back on things like airfare and hotels. You can even earn rewards towards beauty products.
6. Shop at the right times
If you know the store you’re shopping at has a sale coming up, you may want to hold off on making your purchase for now (unless you’re extremely worried it’s going to sell out). For example, you may want to wait to buy that coat from Hudson’s Bay until Bay Days is in full swing, or during their famous one-day sales.
7. Get price adjustments
It can be extremely frustrating to purchase something only to see the price drop when it goes on sale a short time later. Thankfully, many retailers allow for price adjustments within a certain time frame (i.e. Hudson’s Bay allows price adjustments within 7 days of purchase, as long as the original receipt is provided).
Featured image: Instagram/@fashionguruu90
Well, it’s that time of year again…the leaves are changing colour, the pumpkin spice lattes are out in full force, and you get the excuse to go shopping to update your fall wardrobe (not that we ever need an excuse to shop). However, what if we told you that some of the items you have your eye on have almost identical dupes that are much cheaper? Read on to find out 9 of the best designer dupes you can buy right now.
1. CRYSTAL DROP EARRINGS
Left Image: Intermix
Right Image: Zara
If we didn’t tell you which of the crystal drop earrings above were designer and which were the dupe, would you be able to guess correctly? Because we’d sure be stumped.
Shop the Dupe: Crystal Pendant Earrings, $29.90, at Zara
See the Designer Version: Crystal Waterfall Earrings, $397.24, at Intermix
2. PINK TEDDY COAT
Left Image: Farfetch
Right Image: Zara
Teddy coats are a trend that’s back big time this year, and there’s just something fun about wearing one in bubblegum pink. And spending $99.90 instead of $4,404.
Shop the Dupe: Fleece Jacket, $99.90, at Zara
See the Designer Version: Cédric Charlier Full-Zipped Jacket, $4,404, at Farfetch
3. PLAID TRENCH COAT
Left Image: Saks Fifth Avenue
Right Image: Dynamite
There’s no better investment than a good trench coat for fall, and we love this plaid version by Alice + Olivia. However, seeing as there’s a $119.95 dupe out there why not go the more fiscally responsible (but equally stylish) route?
Shop the Dupe: Belted Plaid Trench Coat, $119.95, at Dynamite
See the Designer Version: Alice + Olivia Ginny Plaid Wrap Jacket, $1,090, at Saks Fifth Avenue
4. METALLIC HEEL BOOTIE
Black ankle bootie? Check. Metallic heel? Check. Pointy toe? Check. The only thing we can’t check off our list for the Zara bootie on the right is the high price tag – and we ain’t complaining about that.
Left Image: Nordstrom
Right Image: Zara
Shop the Dupe: Fabric Ankle Boot With Metallic Heel, $99.90, at Zara
See the Designer Version: Proenza Schouler Galvanic Heel Bootie, $1,362.96, at Nordstrom
5. PEARL DETAIL SWEATER
Left Image: Farfetch
Right Image: Zara
There’s something about pearls that instantly add an element of class to any outfit. And while we love this pearl detail sweater by Givenchy, we know we’d feel just as classy in the $39.90 Zara dupe.
Shop the Dupe: Sweater With Pearls, $39.90, at Zara
See the Designer Version: Givenchy Faux Pearl Trim Jumper, $2,225, at Farfetch
6. FLORAL PRINT DRESS
Left Image: Farfetch
Right Image: Aritzia
Who says you have to give up wearing pretty florals once the temperature drops? This billowy floral dress by Giambattista Valli is perfect for any cold-weather fancy event. But not as perfect as the $210 version from Artizia.
Shop the Dupe: Wilfred Beaune Dress Longsleeve, $210, at Aritzia
See the Designer Version: Giambattista Valli Wrap Front Floral Dress, $3,900, at Farfetch
7. LIZARD LEATHER SATCHEL
Left Image: Mytheresa
Right Image: Amazon
A structured leather satchel is a type of bag that will never go out of style, and the “Lucia” bag by Dolce & Gabbana is no exception. However seeing as the $220.24 dupe looks almost identical to the $2,179 real deal, we’ll be going with the former.
Shop the Dupe: La’Festin Lizard Leather Shoulder Bag, $220.24, at Amazon
See The Designer Version: Dolce & Gabbana Lucia Mini Leather Cross Body Bag, $2,179, at Mytheresa (Sold Out)
8. VELVET SHOULDER BAG
Left Image: Saks Fifth Avenue
Right Image: Amazon
Shaped like an antique notebook, the Prada “Cahier” bag is a true handbag masterpiece and we’re obsessed with the burgundy velvet version for fall/winter. However the only thing we can’t get past is the price – which is why the $109 Amazon dupe has our names written all over it.
Shop the Dupe: La’Festin Velvet Shoulder Bag, $109, at Amazon
See The Designer Version: Prada Cahier Velvet Shoulder Bag, $3,725, at Saks Fifth Avenue
9. SNAKE CLOSURE BAG
Left Image: Bvlgari
Right Image: Amazon
For over $2,000, the Bvlgari Serpenti bag screams “pure luxury”. And for $154.71, the Amazon dupe screams “get in my closet right now.”
Shop the Dupe: FairyBridal Leather Crossbody, $154.71, at Amazon
See The Designer Version: Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Shoulder Bag, $2,100 (US), at Bvlgari
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Walking into a Sephora store can be overwhelming, to say the least. The impulse to buy everything and anything can be strong, but FYI certain items are NOT worth your hard earned dollar. If you’re wondering which items you should avoid, I went straight to the source and asked a past employee for the low down. Take a look at 5 things you shouldn’t buy at Sephora according to an ex-employee below and save those dollars for something else instead.
Anything Travel Size
While at first glance those adorbs little travel sized bottles may seem tempting, don’t ever spend your money on them. Sephora strategically places these guys by the checkouts to try and lure you into an impulse buy, but again, not worth it! Almost all travel sized items are overpriced and instead, you can ask for free samples of almost anything in store that work just as well when you’re travelling.
Shampoo and Conditioner
Most of the shampoo and conditioner available at Sephora are made up of higher-end brands, logically making them pricier. Unless you’re set on buying a specific brand that you love, or don’t mind spending the cash, skip hair washing products and grab them at your local drugstore instead. If you’re set on getting a designer brand for your bougie-ass locks, try Winners/Marshalls for discounted bulk sizes of shampoo and conditioner.
Makeup Tools
Some makeup tools like certain brushes seem more affordable at Sephora, especially their house brand, but you can actually find a better quality tool and brush alternatives for lower prices. Generally, if you buy these items at Sephora, once again, you’re paying a premium for the brand name. Some cheaper, but well-made alternatives available elsewhere like Rexall and Walmart are Real Techniques, E.L.F. or Morphe brushes.
Most Mascara
When it comes to mascara it’s the same deal as makeup tools; basically, all the mascara Sephora carries is name brand and therefore hella expensive. Aside from Diorshow or YSL Faux Cils mascara (which my source said are amazing/ worth the splurge), drugstore mascara is just as good, for a fraction of the price – it’s a no-brainer.
Sunscreen and Moisturizer
The last thing you should never buy at Sephora according to an ex-employee is sunscreen/moisturizer. Again, you’re looking at exclusively brand name skin care products with the accompanying hefty price tags. Just like mascara, the drugstore has many more affordable alternatives that will get the job done. Case point: Cetaphil, a dermatologist recommended cleanser that is only $10 at Walmart.
Are there any other products that you should never get at Sephora? Let us know in the comments!
Featured image: Instagram/ @sephora
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It’s easy to justify a few bucks per day for a much needed morning coffee and late-afternoon pick-me-up. However, it’s harder to justify the yearly expense of daily coffee shop visits. According to Loans Canada, the average North American spends $1,100 a year on coffee – like we said, not so easy to justify!
Image: Loans Canada
Now that we have your attention, here are our top 6 tips to save where you can, while remaining caffeinated. Let’s face it, we aren’t willing to give up our coffee companion.
1. FOR THE LATTE LOVERS OUT THERE: ORDER AN ESPRESSO IN A REGULAR-SIZE CUP AND ADD YOUR FAVOURITE MILK OR NON-DAIRY MILK
Lattes are great, but the price…not so much. They consist of 1-2 shots espresso and steamed milk. We’ve got a savvy solution to satisfy both your latte craving and your wallet – order 1-2 shots espresso for a fraction of the price and add your choice of milk or non-dairy milk. This way you can customize the strength of your drink (number of shots) and shave off anywhere from $1-3 (depending on the cafe).
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnU4qyDjQrs/?taken-by=coffee.lover.diary
For colder months: bring back to the office and nuke in the microwave for 30 seconds for a creamy, cozy customized latte.
For warmer months: ask for your espresso on ice and enjoy a refreshing iced latte.
2. ORDER YOUR USUAL SIZE IN A LARGER CUP
Get the max capacity of your usual size with additional room for milk. Plus, the barista is likely to overestimate and pour you a little more love aka coffee if it’s in a larger cup (psychology). Better yet, swap your usual size for one size up, in a larger cup. You can save the extra coffee in the fridge for your late-afternoon cup – saving two of life’s most valuable resources: time and money!
3. ASK FOR YOUR FAVOURITE NON-DAIRY MILK AFTER YOU HAVE PAID
Prefer coconut, almond or soy milk? Some coffee shops charge extra for these options, typically ranging from 60 to 80 cents. Wait until after you have paid for a non-dairy milk, chances are they won’t bother charging you afterwards. Dairy intolerances, allergies and diet preferences are widely known and respected, the good-hearted baristas understand this. If you know of a coffee shop in your area that doesn’t happen to charge extra for non-dairy milk, all the better.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnXIjX5A2at/?tagged=latte
4. ASK FOR COFFEE PUNCH CARDS
Take advantage of punch cards and earn your way to a free drink! Local coffee shops often have punch cards to incentivise repeat customers. Ask your barista if they offer them; if asking makes you uncomfortable, they are often kept near the cash register, so keep your eyes peeled.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BDgvaI4PHPL/?tagged=coffeepunchcards
Image: Instagram
5. GET A CUSTOMER REWARDS CARD
Image: Starbucks
If you tend to get your daily coffee at a chain, such as Starbucks, get a rewards card. If you are loyal to another coffee shop, find out if they offer one – what’s the harm in future free drinks?
Learn more about the Starbucks Rewards Card and sign up here!
6. BRING A REUSABLE COFFEE CUP
Investing in a reusable coffee cup is both environmentally and fiscally responsible. Most coffee shops offer a small discount for customers who bring their own reusable cup. Starbucks offers a 10-cent discount, others offer greater discounts; personal anecdote – this week I noticed my local cafe offers a 20-cent discount! This might seem insignificant at the time, but remember, it all adds up.
Do you know any other tips to get the most out of your coffee shop bucks? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
Featured image: Instagram/@coffee.lover.diary