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!

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

Savvy Shopping: LOFT Love

Has anyone else noticed that lately LOFT (formerly Ann Taylor Loft) has been rolling out consistently stylish, casual chic looks that make me want to buy the entire store? They're killing it big-time! Best of all, they have monster sales so you can rock their looks at a fraction of the regular price. This weekend, get 40% off your entire purchase with code: ENTIRE. So, what better time than to show you some of my favorite finds? While it might be a snowpocalypse in every state but mine (though I am jealous of your snow angels and snow days!), look to LOFT right now for transitional pieces to take you effortlessly from winter to spring.

One bit of advice (which you should do with all garments, I suppose): carefully read the "care label." If even a tee says hand wash or dry clean only, they really mean it! In just one wash, my fuchsia tee was totally done because apparently I was suppose to hand wash. Really?? My tee? Think I should start reading these before I buy! Lesson learned.

Regardless, I still want it all. Ya hear that, LOFT?
I WANT IT ALL! xo

Nautical striped tee, $49.50  (love the contrast with the blue bead necklace)

Raglan sweater jacket, $59.50 (the stand-up collar & classic buttons add sophistication to a comfy coat; wish the purple blouse came, too!)

Pansy Blooms Ruffle Shell, 49.50 (pair now with maroon, green khaki or deep red cardigan; gorg for work or cas' with dark, wide leg denims)

Metallic skirt, $69.50 (the perfect "you'll have forever" skirt. wear now with tights, sans this spring;

note the booties, see next pic!)

Shirlie open toe bootie, 99.50 (wear now with tights or socks, obsess about them all-year-long)

Pleated neck sheath dress, $89.50 (online exclusive). Identical to a BCBG number, but 1/4 the price!

 

Which looks are you coveting? Have I coerced you into some win-ing (winter/spring!) shopping?? (remember, 40% off these prices right now!)

A New Look for a New Year

I'm getting bangs today!


Me, 2 years ago
with my
beloved bangs.

 It's a New Year so spicing it up is definitely in order! Resolutions are so hard, often destined for disappointment. So this year, in addition to the ever-popular "I'm going to lose 20 lbs" resolution, have you made any fun, fashion or style resolutions -- which are totally more obtainable??

I had bangs about three years ago. I loved them though the hubs did not (so, apologies to him today!). This might sound nerdy, but I thought it made me look a little cooler and more chic, and even when I was lazy to blow dry my hair, I'd take two minutes to do my bangs and felt like I looked totally presentable.

I grew them out when I got pregnant. "Who has time to do their hair with a newborn?!" was my fear. Well, I miss them. And, the ends of my hair, especially in the front are really wimpy. When I got super sick six-months ago my naturally crazy thick hair became practically non-existent. I already chopped about seven inches earlier this Fall because the thin, long hair just wasn't working, and now that the new hair is getting thicker I'm ready to BANG IT! I'm just ready for something new! And, they look great on many face shapes. Check out these celebs who adore them too. I'm very excited. Next outfit post will feature the bang, fo' shizzle.

So... what's your 2011 style resolution?
Are you experimenting with new eye and lip colors? Trying to add waves to your gorgeous mane? Mixing and matching more of your wardrobe? Playing with a new color of clothing? Adding more funky colored shoes or flats to your collection? Trying skinnies (skinny jeans) for the first time? Using more chunky pieces of jewelry?

I say go for it! If it's a new look, or possibly  fleeting trend, head to Target, Forever 21, H&M, Zara, CVS (for make up and beauty) etc., to test without breaking the bank. If you love the look, you can invest in a better quality item to last you longer.

Excited to hear about your beauty resolutions!

Savvy Shopping: Sparkly Flats

New rule: every gal deserves a pair of totally outrageously, gorgeous, fun, flirty, shimmer, shiny flats! Yes, flats! Whether it's because you live in a city like New York or Chicago and walk a hell of a lot more than I do or because sometimes you need a break from heels, it's critical to have a pair of totally blinged out flats that make you feel down-right-special everytime you put on those bad boys. Don't you have a few items in your closet like that?? They literally transform my mood, and I walk around on a mini cloud all day.

Whether it's for daytime -- weekend mall, movies or work -- or for a night out -- date, holiday party hopping -- don one of these gorgeous little slippers to shimmer and shine all-day-long! I love contrasting the glitz casual jeans and a blouse, or totally rockin' it with a hot little dress and tights this holiday season. This way when you're party hopping, you'll the one ready for more while your friends feet are killing them! Score.

Steve Madden; $59.95

A total steal! Scoop these up in either gold, black or multi-color because they're totally rockstar! Love that they're not over-the-top. You can pair these with anything!

Nina; on sale, $59.95

Another perfect pair! Nina's have always treated me right. Totally comfortable, and I'm always getting loads of compliments. These would be no exception.

Kenneth Cole Reaction, $79.00

These are called "Glass Slippers," do you need any other reason? Also available in black.

Juicy Couture Snowflake flats, $67.45

Ok, these are more for lounging around the house and running to the mailbox, but how darling are they? Falling in lust with the sweet snowflake and sequin detailing, plus the cozy faux fur lining.

Madden Girl sparkly flats

Perfectly prim and proper, girl this girls a whirl if you're venturing into the sparkly thing for the first time. I could wear these every day, perfectly transitioning to a night out.

Black Friday Fun

Hope you're having a wonderful Thankgiving and fab extended weekend with family and friends! While I'm taking a small blog posting break, I'm keeping busy on Facebook and Twitter. Find me there to access fun tips and even better deals and discounts:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theaveragegirlsguide
Twitter: www.twitter.com/avggirlsguide

xo

NOW: Shop smart

All you can think about is shopping for the holidays, right? Well, you're not the only one: the average person expects to spend $688.87 on holiday-related items this season! Wowza, that's definitely more than my budget this year.

Personally, I don't think Black Friday is the best time to go shopping -- those crowds, the insanity, eek -- because unless you're out at 3 am to get one of three big-screen TVs available, you most likely can get the similar deals by just being a smart shopper all-year-round. If you must however, check out http://www.theblackfriday.com/. Deals for "Cyber Monday," the new shopping "holiday" the Monday after Thanksgiving, can be found at http://www.cybermonday.com/.

Want to shop smart? Take this advice:
- Register for ShopItToMe: it's a free, online personal shopper! I've been a fan for 2+ years and it has more than three million subscribers. Just tell the site your favorite stores and brands, and voila, you get a daily email telling you what's on sale. Do this instead of visiting a million web sites each day scouring for the best price. Saves tons of time and money.

- Shop online through Ebates: hope you're already doing this! I've made $30 this Fall just shopping like I normally do; only exception is that I click first through Ebates, a portal site that gives you a percentage back (anywhere from 2-15 percent!) on more than 1,200 retailers. Best of all, you get $5 after you make your first purchase and Ebates often has coupon codes to add to your savings. This holiday, buying online (especially since many sites offer free shipping at lower price points than usual) can add up to savings and less hassle.

- Register for online sites to save: You can score designer clothes, discounts to restaurants, sporting events, yoga classes and way more just by accessing a few key sites. Head to Gilt, Swirl, Rue La La, Zulily (perfect for kids, moms and babes), Beyond the Rack, Ideeli and Jasmere (new; awesome for mostly food and other great gift items) for the best sample sales. And, do not forget about Groupon, the best way to get up to 90 percent off local finds in your area.

- Make a list and stick to it. Decide who you need to buy for and how much you plan to spend; try to have some ideas in advance so you don't buy needless items. Keep receipts so you can return if you find something else or the same item at a better price.

- Shop before the big sales: Many stores will give you the price difference if an item goes on sale within a few days of purchase, both apparel and electronics. Double check before you buy, though; it sometimes does not apply to Black Friday specials.

- Gift exchanges with friends and fam: Stick to a small amount, $10 or $20, and do a "Secret Santa" type exchange where everyone secretly picks someones name out of a hat and buys that person a gift. This way each person gets one nicer gift instead of six kind of crappy ones.

- Get rid of gift certificates you don't like: check out Card Pool, a site that buys your gift cards back from you for a pretty good percentage. If you don't like what you have, don't force yourself to buy something or hold on to it for so long it's worth nothing. If it's a store that you can't even buy a gift for someone in, take advantage of Card Pool and get cash for that piece of plastic wasting space.

- In 2011, start thinking about next year: want to do way better next year and find the perfect gift? Don't wait until now! If you're like me, what you're looking for is never there for us last-minute shoppers. You're way better off if you're keeping your eyes open all-year long.

- And, of course, stay connected to The Average Girl's Guide: What better way to learn about the latest fashion and products, discounts and deals, and more, right? Keep it right here, yo!

Happy savvy shopping!

Now: Look Weekend Chic

Just put together a stylish outfit that's perfect for a gal on-the-go. Remember, it's about putting together items that go together, not about being matchy-matchy.

What's the worse-case scenario? Tomorrow you're in a new outfit anyway.

Get rid of that fear of outfit commitment and start having fun in that wardrobe you created!

Divine Deal: $20 to Rue La La!

If you have not yet joined Rue La La, now is seriously the time:

Get a free $20 credited to your account of this awesome sample sale site if you join by Oct. 25. The money will be credited within 48 hours and you'll have until the end of the year to use it. Rue La La is an exclusive, invitation-only site where members get access to premier brands at discounted prices. Each sale last justs a few days so important to act fast if there's something you've been coveting. 

Totally worth registering to see what brands they showcase this Fall. It's a free $20!

Fab Find Make-up at a great price!

Must tell you about two totally fab make-up lines with super deals today and through the holiday season.

Stila, a great line of quality make-up known for its gorgeous line of colors and awesome packaging, is starting its holiday gift packages. I'm a procrastinator, so it's a little early to be thinking about gift giving but never to early to take advantage of super deals on awesome products, be it for me or someone else.

You MUST check out some of these sales. For example, check out this "trendsetting in tokyo" palette that let's you sample all of these colors for just $10! $65 value here. And how adorable is the packaging?? Take this everywhere with me! Love the fun eye shadow colors and bright multi-use pink shade. 

And, this Stila lip glaze set for just $25. Seriously? It's a $110 value that let's you sample every color all-season long. Totally loving this for me AND some friends, fam and coworkers. Every gal under the sun would love this as a gift.

There's so many other deals at Stila, too, in all price ranges. Totally worth roaming around there for a while to check it out.

Now, if you're going the more economical route, e.l.f is where it's at. It's super-discount make-up available online. I've ordered a few items once before and was very pleased with the eye shadows and nail polishes. Can't comment on the other items; it's been too long. However, for these microscopic prices, test out a few items and colors you've been wanting to without the worry that you're dropping $150 on who-knows-if-I'll-really-wear-that-color-after-I-leave-the-pushy-saleslady. Plus, today only -- for Columbus Day -- get free shipping with any purchases over $15 when you use the coupon code SHIP. That could be a dozen products to play with. Woohooooo!

Here's one product to check out: This limited-edition eye shadow palette is just $10! Hold on, we're having a moment. This is freaking awesome.  Plan a girls night around this... meet at someones house and everyone gets a different color combination!

Another deal? These hypershine lip glosses for just $1 that Allure magazine raved about in its Sept. issue. They were partial to the baby pink and lilac colors called fairy and joy. For one buck, that's about a penny per application.

e.l.f has so many more options, including mineral make-up and a new bath and body line with fruity scents to test out. Let us average gals know if you discover a favorite new product!

Divine Deal: Up to 70% off Enzo!

A total classic; just $29.48

Awesome shoe sale alert: Score Enzo Angiolini shoes for up to 70% off. Lots of stylish flats, fab heels for work and awesome boots, for under or around $50! The same you'd see at Nordstrom easily for $100+.


LOVE! Pair these with everything; $39.60



If you're in the hunt for some great new, quality and comfortable shoes, these are a total steal. I find that Enzo's run pretty true to size.

Check 'em out here: http://bit.ly/ayaPKi.

Kind of drooling over this pair of grey suede boots for $44 (reg. $159)!



Dresses, skirts, skinnies, oh my! $44.32



Savvy Style: Knee-High Boots

Fal gal and TAGG fan, Kelly, had a request that we just had to help her with. We're that nice! Keep on readin... and, do you have a question, fashion, relationship or anything? Ask away!

Q: Can the Average Girl's Guide help with some knee-high boots? Not the over the knee boots -- just to the knee. I'm trying to find the best quality for the best price. I'm walking a lot so something with a low heel or a wedge. And, something I can wear to school and wear out with a dress. There are so many buckles and things out there right now -- but I need something classic that will last a couple of years. That's a tall order I know. That's why I'm asking for help!

A: Kelly, happy to help! Here's eight options under $150 that are all classic styles (most have other color options, too). There's so many fun styles and different heights (love the bootie) but I resisted. I know you're hesitant with buckles and extras, however when done tactfully they are classic. They keep coming back and will be here for a few more seasons (all us average gals can't afford to throw out our boots every year!). Plus, they add a little something when transitioning from day to night.... which you're looking for. Also, if you're concerned about less expensive brands, I have a pair of grey Target mini-wedge boots from two seasons ago that are still super comfy. Just see what works for you!

Here's seven options. See below for the costs, and click click on your favorite boot to see more details.

Top row
Madden Girl, $59.95
Steve Madden, $148.28 (on sale)
Mossimo Supply Co., $49.99 (Target brand shoes are BOGO 1/2 off online through Oct. 2!!)
McNeff, $140

Bottom row
Charles by Charles David, $174.95
Merona, $29.99 (i.e. Target)
ASOS, $101.10

Divine Deal: Jasmere

Jasmere, a site that helps you save on specialty retailers, has today home-made caramels for just $8 (reg. $22) from a company that funds cancer research. A tasty good deal. For you? A gift? We likey.

Plus, new deals are posted almost daily. A friend got (at a huge discount) what she considers the best cookies she ever tasted from NYC-based This Chick Bakes, thanks to this site. I'm jealous. Now, I need some caramels!

Register/check it out here: http://bit.ly/9vXkh5.

Savvy Shopping: Hot Black Heels

Black heels are a serious wardrobe staple. In fact, this average gal has at least a dozen types that as I tell the hubs, are totally, 100 percent necessary. Open v. closed toes, different heel heights, gladiator, mary janes, lacey detailing, you name it. I need them all... and am hungry for more!

Enter my Fall inspiration: Michael Kors suede pumps. 

How fabulous are these? Can the back detailing with the zipper be any more glorious? Plus, the wedge is way more comfortable than a heel of this height. You'll wear this with everything, all season long... and be the hottest ticket in town. Also love these in the other shades: purple, grey and tan. ($150).


For those looking for a less expensive alternative, here's a few options:

Adore these Merona suede wedges from Target for a teeny-tiny fraction of the price ($30). Granted, there's no zipper, but that will make these last a few more seasons since they're less trendy. These also come in plum, taupe, bordeaux, brown and grey. Totally wearing these with everything, from work skirts to jeans and my new green cargo pants. Nothing is off-limits here.
TAGG TIP: Target's shoes are BOGO 1/2 off through Oct. 2. Yes, GREAT DEAL. Tempted to buy these in black and plum (or, maybe mix and match with a pair of camel brown ankle booties, or grey boots, or...)!

Can't resist the zipper?

Check out these options. First, we have a black peep-toe, zipper-detail in the front and back, cut-out platform heel with slight gladiator feel from Madden Girl from Steve Madden that's totally hot without looking totally uncomfortable. Score! And, less than $60 to boot. Adore.

Next, we go full-on bootie with this hot number from Urban Outfitters that can be added to absolutely anything: skirts, skinny jeans, a dress with belted cardigan, you name it. Instant style for just $58.

And, check out these obsession-worthy heels from Forever21. Platform, peep-toe, crazy-high heels with a back-detail zipper and contrast colors that's to-do for. And, just $27.80? Might not be the most comfortable shoes in your closet, but they'll certainly be among the hottest! I can only work so many miracles...

This is just the beginning!

The options are limitless when it comes to fashionable heels. Find a rockin' pair and live in them all year long. Look forward to seeing you out on the town! xo