Budget Bombshell - Take Two!

In these economic times, we are counting every dollar and penny spent on the “non-essentials” but really, do you consider your health, image and general beauty to be a “non-essential?” Well, we here at In My Professional Opinion don’t and we strongly believe that now is not the time to skimp on taking care of yourself!

Feeling like a million bucks without feeling like your spent a million bucks can be a reality, especially if you follow the economic tips and tricks listed below by our fellow blogger specialists in the fields of hair, fashion and of course, our own tips on essential beauty products!

IMPO Pro, Melissa Street says, “… the higher end cosmetic companies offer great deals, you just gotta keep an eye out for them!”

Gift With Purchase (aka GWP): now is the time to take advantage of department store brands’ gift with purchase programs, but be smart! Check to make sure how much you have to spend in order to receive the gift and check out the gift products thoroughly. Traditionally, those products that make up the GWP are either best sellers or crap sellers all dressed up in a pretty cosmetic bag. If you decide you can't live without the GWP, purchase something you know you will use, like a bronzer for summer, skincare, eye makeup remover, mascara. Don’t get all caught up in the “glitter” and “glitz” – remember, that is what they want you to do! Those counter babe’s work on commission!

Recycle Programs: take care of Mother Earth as well as yourself! MAC Cosmetics has a unique recycle program called Back 2 MAC. Here is how it works, bring in 6 empties (of ANY MAC product and it doesn’t even need to be totally used up!) to a MAC store and you can redeem a FREE lipgloss, lipstick or eyeshadow. What a deal! Got some old gloss from last season or that crazy iridescent lavender that was hot last summer but is kinda funky now? Spring Clean your makeup bag and get thyself to a MAC store!

Kits: big bang for your buck! One of our favs is Smashbox! They put together great kits and special collections that include everything for the face! Recently, we tried the GlamBox Vol. 4, which is a Nordstrom exclusive. This kit includes full size: eyeshadow palette of 6 standby colors, a gel eyeliner palette with brown, black, dark blue and bronze and an angled brush, a blush palette containing three beautiful pink and light bronze shades AND… there is more… a dual lipgloss! WOW! If purchased separately, this Smashbox kit would retail for $190, but you can purchase it now for only $68! In response to our tightening purse strings, many cosmetic and skincare companies are offering these all in one kits. But beware: they’ll get you hooked!

Daily Makeover – writer: Megan McIntyre says, “don’t resign yourself to a life of perpetual bad hair days!” Read on for tips on how to keep your hair looking it’s best without spending a fortune:

Maintenance: shampoo and conditioner are the foundation to good hair, so look for formulas with lots of moisturizers to keep hair healthy and strong. I’m currently obsessed with Herbal Essences Hydralicious Self-Targeting Shampoo and Aveeno’s Nourish+ Revitalize Conditioner.

Color: for many of us, the thought of giving up our pricy in-salon coloring is cause for near panic. If you’re not into DIY, you can still partake in your usual professional coloring, you just have to extend the life of your hair color for as long as possible in order to get the most bang for your buck. The best way to do this is to opt for products that won’t cause your hair to fade or lose its luster. Protect your hair from frying UV rays, the biggest fading culprit, by choosing products that contain UVA and UVB protectants. I like L’Oreal’s EverPure Moisture Deep Restorative Masque and Pureology’s Essential Repair ColourMax.

Styling: most of us tend to cut our hair when we get bored or sick of our current look. And for me, that happens quite a bit. (That’s why I love my job!) One minute I want short hair; three weeks later I’m pining for long locks. Instead of shelling out the mega-bucks for constant trips to the salon, invest in Ted Gibson's new line of hair extensions. The 18” long, full head extensions clip in easily and look really natural thanks to their multi-dimensional color. Best of all, the synthetic hair can be heat styled so you can go wavy, curly or straight. Now that’s versatile!



Another great way to save some dough is try out a style before you make your hair appointment. You wouldn’t buy a dress without trying it on first, so why would you chop your hair without first knowing how you’re going to look? That’s what makes the DailyMakeover.com Makeover Studio such a great budget tool. Download your picture and then try on thousands of celebrity styles to find your perfect cut.

My Wardrobe Today – writer: Alison Gary says, “your sense of style shouldn’t suffer during these tough times!” Read on for tips on how to be well dressed, composed and in control of your wallet:

Keep it simple: now is not the time to buy the print, the shoe, and the silhouette of the moment. Sticking with classics means you will get a longer life from the garments, you can wear more often without looking like a broken record, and they are more likely to blend with what is already in your closet. Crisp creased trousers, simple a-line or pencil skirts, dark jeans with a simple straight leg, black turtlenecks, sheath dresses and white tailored shirts can be worn multiple times and look different yet elegant with each wearing.

Make accessories your friend: it is amazing how a scarf or a belt can completely transform an outfit. Slip a skinny belt over a classic cardigan and trousers for a new silhouette, or cinch a floaty dress with a wide stretchy belt under the bust. Scarves can be used in the hair, around the waist, and of course around the neck to change the silhouette or cut of a look. I personally love tying a large square scarf “cowboy” style so it hangs in front, and tucking the ends into the collar of a blouse or neckline of a sweater. Also nothing jazzes up an old purse better than a pretty scarf tied to its shoulder strap!

Shop in unexpected places, and don’t be a label snob: some of my favorite day dresses are from Target – they are just as good of quality and style as boutique dresses that cost three times as much! I have recently scored some modern and stylish pieces at an amazing sale price from Talbots – a shop I used to consider more appropriate for my mother. If there is a specific designer or style I like, I check eBay to see if someone is selling a gently used version in my size. I have also scored some fabulous finds – vintage and even current designer pieces at thrift stores – what is one person’s trash very well may be your low priced treasure!

Stop using the mall as a form of entertainment: if you enter it, you will buy something. More often than not, you purchase something you don’t need and don’t even love. I worked in retail marketing for years and know those stores are set up to lure you in and have you purchase something, anything! If you aren’t there, you won’t be tempted. Want to get out? Meet a friend at a local park for a walk or a potluck picnic.

Make a list and check it twice: this rule works for any type of shopping – home goods, groceries, and fashion. If you have a list before you begin shopping, you will be more likely to only purchase what is needed and do your homework to find the best price. It’s far more fashionable to have one perfect skirt or one perfect bag than a closet full of not-quite-rights.

Do a fashion swap: this is one of the best ways to get a new collection of clothes without spending a dime. Make it a party – send out an Evite, make a signature cocktail, and invite your friends to bring items from their wardrobe that are in good condition but just not in regular rotation. Everyone ends up leaving with new looks and no one had to spend a dime!

LAST LOOKS:
IMPO wants to thank all our blogger buddies out there who contributed to our Budget Bombshell posts. If you don't know My Wardrobe Today, Daily Makeover, The Beauty Foodie or the Personal Fit Coach, you are doing yourself a disservice!

These bloggers are smart cookies and spend many long days and nights (and some weekends) searching for truth, justice and how to save a dime or two (which is the American way) so, you owe it to yourself and your bank account to bookmark those sites immediately and check back with them frequently!

This week, the Dow was up, and perhaps our spirits have been lifted a bit too. But the tips and tricks listed above are great to keep in mind anytime not just crunch time!!

STAY TUNED:
Up next on IMPO: we are taking it to the streets of Paris with Maqpro! It's a little secret place tucked away in the most romantic city in the world and it is wear professional makeup artists and gorgeous parisian women shop for their cosmetics! Watch IMPO makeup artist, Melissa Street, get a makeover! Don't miss this post!

Budget Bombshell - Take One!

Let’s face it: our country is having some…economic issues, to put it mildly! This recession is affecting everyone from the film industry to the blue-collar industry and every man, woman and child in between. You can’t run and you can’t hide, but what you can do is take control of your wallet and decide how to spend your dollars wisely!

In My Professional Opinion asked specialists (and blogger extraordinaires) in the field of hair care, health, fitness and fashion to collaborate on a budget-friendly beauty post and provide all of our readers with the secrets to achieving bombshell status on a very tight budget!

Today’s post is dedicated to our Pro cosmetic tips for highest impact in a recession, as well as the best fitness and diet tips to keep you looking beautiful inside!!! Because, of course, taking care of your health and wellness will keep you looking and feeling amazing not only during this economic slump, but for the rest of your life!

In My Professional Opinion - writer: Melissa Street says, “invest in makeup that has a dual purpose and clipping coupons is so drugstore chic!” Read on to discover how to look like a million bucks without going into debt!



Dual Purpose Products: try a tinted moisturizer that has an SPF like Laura Mercier. I realize it doesn’t come with a tiny price tag, but it is a moisturizer, SPF and foundation all–in-one! If you purchased those three items individually, you could be spending your entire beauty budget for the year! Cheek and lip stains are interchangeable! Try Tarte's Cheek Stain and you will discover a lovely sheer tint that is a great bang-for-your-buck and looks wonderful on your lips too!




Drugstore Diva: I am a gloss freak and carry about 5 different colors of gloss in my cosmetic bag on the daily! I am a firm believer in purchasing quality over quantity, but gloss, cheek and eye color is where you can save major bucks. Check out your local drugstore flyers for coupons on L’Oreal, Sally Hansen or other cosmetic lines. I have found many bargains such as buy one, get one free and buy one, get the second 50% off! I have posted before about drugstore mascara and have found that Covergirl and Max Factor are equivalent to more expensive lines.

Palettes: these are a Pro MUA’s bff and they should be yours too! Like Paris Hilton needs the tabloids, your face needs a great palette. I am a big believer in a quad palette for eyes (via MAC or Covergirl). I recently discovered Coastal Scents, which make several large color palettes for cheeks and eyes! Not only are these colors full of major pigment, Coastal Scents gives you like 88 colors for $21.95! BAM! Now that's a bargain!



Personal Fit Coach - writer: Jenn says, "instead of a gym membership or personal trainer, bank those dollars and workout at home." Read on to discover how to make fitness affordable and fun!



DVD: the right exercise DVD program can help you shape up faster and for less money than a gym membership. One University of Florida study found that over 15 months, home exercisers were more consistent and lost 10 extra pounds compared with gym goers. I've been working my DVD player and my body overtime to screen many workout DVDs. Of course, I'm addicted to the BeachBody programs that helped me to lose over 40 pounds, but I'm also a fan of quite a few others. Many of these programs require little equipment at all. I lost my first 30 pounds using only 3-5 pounds dumbbells.

In Home: in addition to workout DVDs, your home provides a wide variety of exercise options that are completely free. As the weather is getting nicer, now is a perfect time to give walking or running a try. Don’t want to go it alone? Check out Meetup.com to find a walking or running group near you. Do you have stairs in your house? Pop on some energizing music and climb up and down 100 times. You will get an amazing workout before you know it. Do you have a bike collecting dust in the garage? Break it out and go for some spring rides. Create intervals by covering both flat and hilly ground. Have kids? Borrow that jump rope for an excellent cardio workout. Have a dog? Take him for a run instead of just a walk or make sure it's a brisk walk and not just a stroll.



There are so many choices. A good idea is to mix things up so that you never get bored. There is a concept coined by trainer Tony Horton called "Muscle Confusion." The idea is to always keep your body guessing about what will come next. It will help you get in amazing shape and minimize the boredom factor.

One of the biggest excuses I hear is that people don't have enough time to fit in a workout! Try being as active as possible in your daily life, for instance: Park your car farther away at the supermarket. Take the stairs whenever you can. Pace your office or cube while you are on the phone. Jog in place during each commercial break while watching your favorite TV show. The possibilities are truly endless!



The Beauty Foodie – writer: Sara says, “beauty begins from within and everyone should be eating nutrient-rich foods even on a budget!” Read on to discover how to save on food without sacrificing nourishment.



Attention Please: pay attention to what’s in season at the supermarket to save on nutrient-rich fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only do they usually taste better, but they are usually less expensive too.

Farmer's Market Diva: local farmers market’s near your home is a great way to buy fruits and vegetables seasonally. Fruits and vegetables sold at these markets are very likely to have been grown within driving distance of your home. This usually guarantees that they are fresher, and because of the reduced transportation costs, they are usually less expensive. Many farmers’ markets also have organic vegetables available. If you live in a more rural area and have access to transportation, you could also check to see if there are any local farms that have farm stands.



Frozen is O.K.: if you cannot find fresh fruits and vegetables that fit your budget, you should consider purchasing frozen. Frozen fruits and vegetables are far better from a nutritional standpoint than many people realize, and can make a very nourishing alternative.

Must Haves: eggs are a source of high-quality protein and antioxidants. Bananas are a good source of potassium and fiber and a great source of vitamins C and B6. Potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Whole wheat pasta can be stored for up to a year so buy it when it’s on sale. Buying a whole chicken is far more cost-effective than purchasing individual parts and lean ground beef is a low-fat source of protein and iron. Plus it’s quick and easy to cook. Beans have made their way into a diverse array of cuisines from zesty dips to elegant dinner salads. Virtually all types of beans are not only delicious, they’re nutrient powerhouses.

Fish: while you can’t beat the taste of fresh fish, canned tuna is an economical option. One or two cans will go a long way toward feeding four if you find the right recipes.

Moo: top round steak (London Broil) is another good-value cut: Like flank steak, it’s easy to prepare and you don’t waste purchase weight with having to trim fat. Leftovers can be used to make a tasty sandwich for lunch, or toss pieces in with veggies and whole grain rice or whole wheat noodles for an easy, quick stir-fry.

Eat Rice: brown rice costs a few cents more per pound but is healthier, nuttier, and has three times the fiber of white rice. It can be used in almost any recipe calling for white rice. Bulk-buying rice is an easy way to cut costs. It should be stored in a well-sealed container.



Dairy: yogurt is a great source of calcium and protein. Save by buying your yogurt in a large size container and dish out your own portions rather than buying in single-serving containers.
Quinoa provides more amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and phytonutrients than most other grains making it one of the most complete foods in nature!

Finally, add nutritionally packed delicious herbs and spices such as sage, oregano, ginger, turmeric, red peppers, thyme, cinnamon, marjoram, yellow curry and rosemary in your home cooked meals and reap the many rewards for your health and beauty.

LAST LOOKS:
We at In My Professional Opinion want to encourage all our readers to look at this time of money woes with a positive attitude. This is the time to simplify and get back to basics: good nutrition, healthy diet, and a great smile with a sassy gloss!!

STAY TUNED:
Up next - Budget Bombshell - Take Two! Featuring more recession-friendly tips from In My Pro Opinion, as well as hair and fashion tips from two of the best bloggers in our cyberworld; Daily Makeover and My Wardrobe Today!