Savvy Shopping: Grocery-Store Style

With ads for $.99 Big Macs and cheapy fries, it can take a little more work to eat a healthy, great-tasting meals and snacks. While I’m not the world’s best cook, I am a gal who loves food and healthy eating (and seeking out fun new snack foods!) so I’m willing to seek out the deals and learn what’s worth it and what’s not.

As your fab new in-the-know best friend (if I do say so myself, ha!),

let me share with you five easy tips to help reign in your food budget:

Eat what’s in season!

The best, easy tip to save money is to buy what’s in season. Here’s a great chart to use as a guide. Buy watermelon, grapes and strawberries now and hold off on... .

Try frozen fruits and veggies.
Are you someone who constantly tosses your produce because you don't eat it in time? Buy frozen; it lasts much longer. I love adding frozen veggies with some olive oil, salt and pepper, in a skillet along with a protein and whipping up a quick stir-fry. Add soy, ponzu or teriyaki sauce, too. Avoid frozen meals and veggies with pre-made sauces that are loaded with artificial ingredients and tons of sodium. If you can’t pronounce an ingredient, it’s not for you.

Pay attention to prices.
Don’t just buy, buy, buy! Notice costs, including fruit and veggies per pound. You’ll be surprised how quickly you recognize when items are a better value. And, compare seemingly similar items: thin-sliced chicken can be 40 percent more than regular breasts. Save a lot by taking two minutes at home to slice in half or pound thin (good stress reliever, too!). Sometimes the convenience is worth it -- like buying diced butternut squash or cut brocoli -- but often it's not.

Buy on sale.
Sounds obvious, right? Do it, but be more strategic. It might take a few weeks to see the savings because you first need to stock up during sales on your go-to items (though don't go to the extreme like what's on TV lately; no one needs 93 ketchups!). Think almonds, granola or paper towels. Notice the sales so you can avoid buying for full price when you’re completely out. I love BOGOs (Buy One Get One) sales added with coupons from my Sunday paper or from Coupons.com. I’m usually saving at least 30-40 percent each week, with hardly any work involved. You do not have to be a crazy coupon lady! And, once you stock up you don't have to worry about buying the same product every week; you'll have it. I'm stocked on everything from preserves to shaving cream! For those who are really interested, there's an "un-couponing" method by Jodi at Live FabuLESS that masses of women go nuts for. Haven't done it yet, but considering it soon because this gal has never steered me wrong; love her. She saves without sacrificing. Totally my motto, ladies!

Cook more than you need
This one is more about saving time than money because to me --- time is the most valuable commodity in the world! Even though I’m typically only cooking for two, I make enough for at least one or two more days. Tilapia one night can be transformed into fish tacos the next night without the hassle of making more fish. I do the same with chicken. Make chicken breasts with black beans, rice and grilled onions one night and go for fajitas or a salad topped with chicken the next.

Hope this is helpful... ask questions: always do my best to answer!

Target Sales Calling My Name

Giveaway update: I'm eager to announce the winner of the gorgeous wristlet by Elise Francesca. Hope you checked them out; perfect for summer! Using random.org, it's entry #4: Sara! Congrats!

You know what The Average Girl's Guide is??

It's your in-the-know best friend, baby!

And, here's a sales now at the gal-fave Tarjay that I'm telling all my friends about:

Those fierce Dolce Vita by Target wedges, the ones I've been gabbing about the past few months? Yeah, they're just $19.99 this week, $10 off! Just $20 for hot wedges that are the summer's "it" trend?

Yes, please. In black and brown. Order now, or head to your closest store. I demand it.

And, during my little trip to Tarjay today, I stumbled across this dress.

While the normal Alyson might think this is slightly too frilly I tried it on and LOVE.

TAGG honesty tip: looks way, way cuter on in person.

Adore both the ivory and the red/pink, though there's a handful of color options.

It's a steal, on sale for just $17.99 from $24.99 for this week.

And, I bought this dress for work that also transitions nicely to cocktails.

Love the bright summery color and the great detailing near the face. 

Another find at just $17.99 right now (reg. $27.99).

TAGG tip: it runs a little large, so go down a size if you're in between.

I actually love about the entire women's department right now, if we're being honest.

There's cropped jeans with zippers on the side, fantastically casual striped tees, adorable dresses, cardigans I'm desperately trying to put out of my mind... and that's just the beginning.

Zulily is not just for mamas

Mama or not, keep reading:

One of my favorite sample sale sites (and there are now a million!) is Zulily; it has gazillions of adorably fashionable clothes and baby room decor, gift items galore (books, clothes, OMG, your soon-to-be-mama friends will adore you!) and fab maternity looks.

However, I've been seeing more and more items perfect for any gal. Check out these items now on Zulily (and PS: save $5 with code GA9331!!) .

Steve Madden has a few gorgeously patterned tunics, two total hotness dresses and jumpers (fab with a belt) that I'm totally swooning over (plus, such a steal, all under $30!

And, these bags by Big Buddha? There's a ton more, plus clutches, all under $60. The leather looks of such high quality and there's not big brand names all over the bag, making it an instant classic. And the pink one? Couldn't resist -- what a fun spring splurge!

Head to Zulily to check out these and more!

xo-- Alyson

I can't help myself

While I have a post declaring my love of my love for neutrals on the horizon, I can't help but share the perfection of these Steve Madden heels in the interim. Just scoped them out on 6pm.com for a steal at less than $25; I will be shocked that if in two months you don't see almost identical shoes (if not the same ones) for the full price listed here: $70. They're also available in four other colors (including the denims below; so reminiscent of the '70s look that's absolutely everywhere for spring).

Pair these with your new or "vintage" (ie 2001!) wide-leg jeans, flowery or flouncy skirts to the office or on a date night, a hot pink pedi and everything in between. My white and neutral shoes get more wear than anything else in my closet come springtime.

If you need a little color, the denims are hotness with the tan piping, also just $24.95. Love the little platform, too, and the ankle strap makes walking easy with a higher heel.

OK, Friday afternoon rant=done. You may go home now.

xo
Alyson

Groupon: Post-holiday deals

Groupon is doing it up today! Check out these deals....

Ever want to make your own granola bar, cereal, shake or other healthy treat? Get $25 to You Bar for just $12 -- and customize your creation (head to DC deal)! I'm obsessed with this deal --- 1. I love to eat. 2. I love to eat healthy. and 3. I can be kind of picky. This let's us pick exactly what we want! So fun to try.  Purchase deal by 12.31.10.

People love this site: For just $35, get $100 worth of cards, calendars and photo books at Picaboo. Make fully customizable pieces, and loving that the certificate is good toward shipping and tax, too. Yay! Find the deal by clicking on Portland. And, it's available for purchase through 12.30.10.

Wine drinker or go to friend's for dinner, soirees, and get-togethers? Take advantage of this gift certificate to wine.com. A $60 value, for just $30. Perfect to sip new wines, or bring the perfect bottle to a Find it under San Diego friend's house. The deal is available through 12.30.10.

Happy deal shopping!
xo-Alyson

Cyber Monday deals

Hi there! There's a slew of sites that shares every single Cyber Monday deal but this average gal prefers to highlight just a few fun finds, perfect for yourself or for giving this holiday season! Plus we're not just for deals and discounts... head here -- and tell friends -- for fashion, deals, food, fun and more! woot, woot!

We'll have more holiday gift ideas later this week and next but here's something to whet your appetite.

Adoring this Nine West black-patent leather pump, just $24.95 (Reg. $78!). I have a very similar heel and always get a million compliments. Plus, it looks awesome with everything from jeans to a cocktail dress. Imagine that fab front detailing peeking out of a pair of pants. LOVE! Also comes in black leather, satin and other colors! And, there's about 100 other hottie Nine West shoes available, all under $39.95!

So perfect for you or for gift giving: Living Social (similar to Groupon) today is featuring a $60 gift certificate to wine.com for just $30!! The number one retailer, utilize this site to either buy a vino you've been interested in, or stock up on a few to for friend's birthdays, holiday soirees and more. Certificate is valid through 3.30.11.

Need a gift for a guy? Check out this Cole Haan "Rustic and Penny" Money Clip & Case for just $25 (reg. $55) now available at Rue La La, one of my top online sample sale sites! For men, there's also card holders, belts, shoes and more, and loving all the flats and heels for women under $100! It's Cole Haan, ladies. It's a steal. Click through the link to access all the deals and steals.

A gal would love: Adore this Pottery Barn jewelry roll for just $19! Comes in red and blue, and today the PB is offering FREE monogramming AND free shipping. What's not to love? A personalized gift is always so lovely. Just shows that you really care, and clearly planned in advance! This is something someone will have for years; it's so perfect for traveling. (Thanks to the fabulous Bon Bon Rose Girls for showing me this!)

Want a cute outfit for a little one? Head to Bay &Trey, a South Florida-based kiddie clothing designer. We have a few of her shirts -- including a tank my daughter wore for her 1st birthday! -- and we love them. Cute tie-dyes, little frills, studs, hearts, peace signs, rocker looks and way more! Extra adorable is that the girl shirts have a tiny little heart on the back, just at the top. It's her signature and everyone compliments it. Today only, get 25 percent off the whole site and free shipping with a $40 purchase!

Another perfect kiddie option? A personalized books, gifts, toys and more! Imagine how exciting it would be to see your name in print. Well, now you can. I remember these from back in-the-day and now, they're better than ever! Identity Direct (super well-known company!) has a gazillion options, and today only, get them at 20 percent off with code CYBER MONDAY. Get ready to be the coolest gift-giver. EVER!

Looking for furniture or home accessories? Check this out: Save 15% on almost everything at Crate and Barrel, plus free shipping on select items totaling $100+. Love all of their furniture, etc (we have one of their rugs) and they also have wonderful smaller items for host gifts this season. Use code SAVE15. Plus, click through ebates for an additional 6 percent cashback. Me likey!

Have you or a guy in your life been looking to tone with those sneaks we keep seeing everywhere? Seems like it takes some time out of the gym and you can still get a tush and thighs you want! Hell, what's not to like? Head to 6pm for serious deals on Reebok's Easy Tone. They're just $39.95 (reg. $100!) today.

A perennial favorite, VistaPrint is offering the following for FREE (just pay shipping): 250 business cards, 1 photo calendar, 140 return address labels, 10 5x7 Holiday Cards, 10 4x8 Holiday Cards, 1 mug, 100 Holiday PostCards (BEST DEAL: each postcard will be less $.05, shipped to you!), 1 4x6 photobook, 1 tote bag, 1 sticky note pad. You can select just one, or all, of these items and they'll all be free!

Also know that today LOFT has 40 percent off everything, New York & Company has 50% off the whole store, Kate Spade has an extra 25% off the whole site, and a lot more! Just go to a site you like and chances are there's a deal right on the homepage!

Divine Deals: Lots of options

Good day, and happy Friday! What a happy Friday, indeed. Not only am I typing hardly able to contain myself because my gorgeous, sweet little daughter is turning one tomorrow (!) but there's so many deals around town that I just want to start shopping. Eek, don't tell the hubs!

Here's a few deals that you should know about:

APPAREL
For those that live near a Nordstrom Rack, get excited: spend just $25 for $50 worth of shoes, apparel and more at this totally fabulous designer discount store. The deal is available for purchase through Groupon until Monday, and you can use the gift certificate until Dec. 31. Perfect for holiday shopping (for you or someone else; don't worry, we don't judge!).

Another Groupon perk? They've extended another national deal where you can get a $50 gift certificate to American Apparel for just $25. Perfect spot for basics (think layering pieces) and I hear their thigh-high socks are out-of-this world. Wear under high boots, with short skirts or for a lazy night on the couch. The Groupon certificate expires Feb. 19, 2011.

New to Groupon? Click here. Already a member and want get today's deal, click here!

SHOES

One of my favorite online discount shoe retailers, 6pm.com has some swoon-worthy sales this weekend. Boutique 9 is up to 75 percent off. There's adorable flats as low as $30 and check out these heels for just under $60? Tell me you wouldn't get a million compliments on these puppies and wear them for years? Great purchase, I'm kind of obsessed.

6pm also has boots Under $50 and Under $100, depending on your price point. Shop early for the widest selection of sizes and styles.

EAT
If you don't buy restaurant gift certificates online for yourself, you're missing the boat. I'm frequently eating at my favorite restaurants for 50-80 percent less than the peeps sitting next to me. Many cities have local options -- for example, I'm always taking advantage of South Florida Dines (use promo code FOOD for an extra 20 percent off this weekend!) -- but Restaurant.com is one of the best options for a discounts at restaurants around the country. Right now, get certificates for hot spots in your area for  80 percent off, just use GOBBLE at checkout. Yes, that's $2 for a $25 gift certificate!!!!

OK... last but not least, just check out your favorite store, and visit our holiday shopping tips for more ways to save.

Why spend full price when you get exactly what you want for less?! -- the average gal. xo

Fab Find: Curling Iron Cover

I'm a flat iron kind of gal. Well, actually, I'm a frizzy, slightly puffy haired kind of gal, therefore I've become the flat iron kind of gal. It's been a g-dsend for years. While they're great at home and you don't have to worry about the heat (just remember to turn it off when you're done! I've had a few 'oops' days!), the hot iron can be a hassle when traveling. Until, I discovered Vera Bradley's "curling iron cover." I don't know why the brand has to be so specific but I'll take it regardless!

This cover -- in about two dozen fun, colorful patterns -- has a heat-resistant lining so as soon as you're done with it, you can stick your hot hair iron, or curling iron, in and be on-the-go. No more waiting for it to cool down or planning the order of how you get ready to give it enough time to cool off to room temperature before packing. For less than $20, it's one of the more useful purchases I've ever made. And, I also love the pop of color every time I use it. (PS: also a great gift this holiday season!).

To purchase: They're $17 on Vera's web site, though discontinued patterns can run you as little as $8.40! Plus, go through Ebates (that web site we're obsessed with because you get cash back on your purchases, plus $5 the first time you use it!) scores you an additional 3% back on your purchase. Free money!

Or, if you're an Amazon fan, check it out; there's about a dozen sellers with products starting around $15 so find the pattern you like best.

Divine Deal: Restaurant.com just $1!

WOW! What are you waiting for? Restaurant.com is offering up a phenomenal 90 whopping percent off $25 gift certificates to tons of fantastic restaurants. That's $1 people! Just use the code WOW at check-out. Believe it's been at least a year since they've offered this promotion.

While some places have restrictions, who cares?! You're saving $24 each time you dine! Totally worth stocking up, or giving these as gifts to friends and family. Give this as a gift for no-reason to a girlfriend who's been super sweet lately or your gram for just being her. Remember, it's nationwide!

Head to restaurant.com now! You'll be glad you did.

Divine Deals: Dine for Less!

Love eating but don't love getting the bill? Ditto! Check out restaurant.com! Buy $25 gift certificates for just $2 each, through Sept. 13. Just use the code TOUCHDOWN for the discount at checkout. Voila!
These deals are the best; find your favorite restaurants or use this as a crazy cheap way to try a new place. Worse case, you're out $2. That's not even a latte these days! And, while restaurant.com used to have a limited number of places, it has quite a few now. Worth revisiting if it's been a while. I just bought three for $7.50 total!

I'm ALWAYS buying these certificates here and locally on southfloridadines.com. You need to check restrictions (some are dine-in only, have minimum bill requirements or exclude certain specials) but it's such a value and it enables us to eat out more often. What's not to like?!

Divine Deal: Steal the Real... for Less

Whenever I read InStyle, Vogue, People Style Watch and some other magazines, I go through a range of emotions. Excitement over the latest looks, intrigue about whether it will look good on me, and then often depression because I can't afford $300 for freaking t-shirt!

After depression sets in, I realize there must be a way to get the designer looks for less. I hit up stores like Forever 21, Urban Outfitters and soon H&M (ones opening near me in Nov!) and also check out a few key web sites that do the work for me. What's not to love? Here's two you should add to your favorites, your RSS reader or make a mental note to check out.

The Looks for Less: Steal the Real and In Their Closet. Check out the example boots below. Believe it or not, there's a $100 difference between the real by Steve Madden and the steal from Wet Seal. Many steals can save you way more... hundreds!

I find tons of good deals through various web sites, so the Guide will be coming to you with more down the road. Stay with us!

Fab Find: Pre-sale on Designers for Target

Who doesn’t go crazy – sometimes counting down the days – until Target unveils the latest line from an awe-inspiring designer? Less than $40 for a Zac Posen dress? Yes, please. Well, before Target puts the latest designer duds on sale this October you have a chance to get them months in advance. Score! Gilt Groupe, an online sample sale site I mentioned in last week’s post about savvy shopping, will have a 36-hour sale starting this Friday, Aug. 20 before three major labels hit Target stores. Look for Tucker by Gaby Basora, John Derian, and Mulberry. Here's the site.

Designer lines for Target are awesome; the styles are true to their brands, are up-to-the-minute stylish (yet can last through quite a few seasons) and super affordable. I still adore my Loeffler Randal rose-colored clutch with oversized flower; Temperley by London black flowered dress and more recently, Cynthia Vincent gold studded, white leather sandals (see pic).

To register for gilt, visit gilt.com.

Savvy Shopping: Average Girl Style

We're in a recession people! While it may have been chic to show your findings from a spending spree in years past, now it's all about bragging about a great bargain. Check out some of my favorite ways to save while still looking stylish.

Loehmann's: Man, I love this store! In my opinion it's like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls but better (though TJ's is a close second). Best to avoid shopping on the weekends when intense shoppers who throw elbows are in full force, but go in on a week day or night to take your time to browse the racks. I've scored a $450 Nanette Lepore dress for under $60, silver Ray Ban aviators for $30, and more recently a really cute, bright-blue Juicy Couture bathing suit for just $25 (regularly $120+). Just saw the exact same bottoms on sale at Bloomies for $57 (see pic); score! At Loehmy's, always check out The Back Room for the best designer fashions at discount prices, and don't miss the children's and men's sections. They're typically small but have good finds. Bought my girl five pairs of Splendid leggings at an embarrassingly inexpensive $5 each!

Shop it to me: This site refers to itself as "your personal shopper," and they don't disappoint! Register, tell the site your go-to brands and stores, and then get ready to receive emails with sales of your favorite... everything! It's kind of dangerous! Takes the hassle out of going to a million web sites to look for sales or Googleing the item you're looking for. Everything from Tory Burch to Old Navy, Saks to the Gap, DVF,Michael Kors, NineWest, whatever your heart -- and stylish bod -- desires.

Gilt.com, RueLaLa.com, etc: We can't all live in NYC with enviable fashion, gorgeous window displays and sample sales seemingly around ever corner, but at least we have fab web sites like these that offer them right at our finger tips. Register at these sites and others (mom alert: check out zulily.com). Be aware that the merch is pretty limited. If you want something, be at your computer the second the sale starts, or beware... the competition is fierce.

TAGG tip

Shop the day BEFORE a sale (if you have time to go back the next day): Especially with stores that have limited merchandise, this can make a big difference. Not only are stores less crowded, but there's a much better chance you'll find your size. I get emails from about a half dozen or so of my favorite shops so I'm always in the know about a big sale. Find what you want, try it on and put it on hold. The next day, just make a pit stop at the store to make a quick purchase. This also gives you the opportunity to review potential purchases one last time. Just ask yourself... Do I reeeaaalllyyy need it?

Look for more of my tips in a future post; can't give it all away at once! What are your favorite ways to save on the latest fashions and wardrobe staples?

Cool Summer Looks for Hot Prices

With summer almost half-way over (tear!), who wants to invest in pricey accessories that soon will be pushed to the back of the closet in favor of boots, scarves and other Fall must-haves?

Thanks to InStyle magazine, check out more than 20 drool-worthy accessories UNDER $50 each that will help you beat the heat... or at least look good while you're sweating to death: click here to check them out. Here's just a few of my favorites that are so neutral they'd pair perfectly with a cotton tee and cut-off shorts or khaki capris, or your go-to summer dress.

Aldo cuff, on sale for $11.98 each

Cynthia Vincent for Target wedges, $30

Steve Madden Boat Shoes, $50

Spiegel Beach Bag, $34

CVS is one good deal

Ok, not everything is a good deal at CVS but utilize the store's ExtraCare Rewards Program just right, and you'll start saving. Ask for a card next time you're at the register... every purchase you make is tracked (which I don't love, but hey... can't win 'em all!). Once you start spending, you'll start receiving Extra Bucks you can use throughout the store and bundle with other coupons and BOGO (Buy-One-Get-One) deals. Tip: I like to get my coupons before I start shopping. Most stores have a kiosk when you walk in; look for it.



The good part of them tracking your purchases is that it seems that the coupons are tailored to me. Love Garnier Nuctrisse products? I once used a $2 off coupon the same week as a BOGO so got two products for $2! Special K with red berries? Each box was just $1.88 and I had two coupons for $1 off/box. Fab deal; I stocked up with six boxes. Buy two boxes of Fiber One chocolate granola bars (mmm, delish) on sale and get $5 in extra rewards. Tip: When this happens, buy this item first so you'll get the $5 coupon right then to use on whatever else you're purchasing. If you're like me, it's easier to use it right then and there.



And, just learned: Every so often you get $10 off a $50 purchase. I never spend much at CVS at one time, but I do at Publix... and Publix takes competitors coupons!! Cha-ching. If you don't live in Florida, check with your local grocer. Many national chains have the same promotion.



Happy shopping (and saving!)