I LOVE Christmas, this time of year is a wonderful time… mainly because I get 3 weeks off work to rejuvinate. 

This year I decided to start my Xmas shopping early, on eBay! and – oh my god… it has been the easiest Christmas EVER! Ive got ALL (minus one) of my boyfriends presents on there, and recently got so lazy with the shops I just jumped back on and searched for everyone else too!

On the weekend I trapsed the shops BOTH days, to aid my boyfriend with his family xmas shopping – it was SO stressful, Im glad I didnt have to get anything otherwise I might have passed out from the frustration of having to think whilst manouvering around prams, old ladies and stupid men pushing trolleys who dont know what shopping centre trolley etiquite means.

So, this is my loot so far, in the last 2 weeks!!

 Quiksilver trackpants ($24.99 – BRAND NEW!) – boyfriend

Billabong ‘Cobra’ Belt ($20 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

 Ben Shearman Tee ($20 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

Quiksilver Hoodie ($50 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

 Quiksilver Shirt ($27 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

 Billabong Shirt ($24 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

 Quiksilver Shirt ($24 – BRAND NEW) – boyfriend

AMAZING huh ….. it was just SO EASY! click, pay and sit back and wait, the most strenuous part was wrapping them up! I also got him an overnight leather bag but I refused to get that off eBay as the postage on them is high! so I ventured out for that!

I found a great article from the Budget Fashionista that makes a lot of sense when clothes shopping. It’s always fun to buy those articles of clothing that are cool or trendy but we need to always have staples in our wardrobe. See the below article to help you think a little differently when shopping.

Shopping isn’t just about buying cutesy $15 t-shirts that end up collecting dust in our closets, but about choosing quality merchandise. I’ve gathered my best formulas, that I created after year of closet mishaps,  to help you save money (and save your closets).

Follow the 70/30 Rule

We love trends and think every Stylista should certainly have fun pieces in her closest, but these pieces shouldn’t dominate the closets. When budget shopping the value and usefulness of your potential goods needs to be your primary concern. Use the 70/30 rule use my 70/30 rule to help you keep an established closet:

70/30 Rule:  70 percent of your closet should include timeless pieces that never go out of style. These are your classic staples, like a great pair of jeans, that you’ll keep for a long time and will form the base of your wardrobe. The other 30% of your closest can include trendy pieces like a sequined jacket or brightly colored tights. These are pieces you will mostly like recycle out of your closet after a season or two. You SHOULD NOT spend a ton of money on these items.

Remember the Cost Per Wear Formula

The Cost Per Wear Formula a href=“http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/archive/fashion_advice_the_cost_per_wear_ratio2//” title=“cost per wear”>cost per wear, which I developed in 2004, helps you focus on the value, not just the price, of an item. 

The Cost Per Wear Formula: Total cost of the item/ estimated length of time you’ll wear it

Here’s How it Works:

Buy:
Let’s say you go into Forever 21 and buy a shirt on sale for 15 bucks — its cute and floral and at that price you don’t think twice about it. Well, it turns out you never wear this shirt.

Value:
You have another top, a $60 sweater from J Crew, nothing special except you have had it for two years and wore it over 20 times.

The Formula:
According to the cost per wear formula: the actual price of that Forever 21 shirt cost you is $15 since you never wore it. Whereas the actual cost of the J Crew sweater is $2 bucks, and it gets cheaper and cheaper after every use.

Those of you who have followed the many What’s In My Bag shots that I have on flickr know that I have a couple of bags that I carry on my daily commute. Given the “just in case” freak that I am I always need a couple of thing most people don’t lug around: a dynamo torch, a swiss knife, hand sanitiser AND a special surfaces (doorknobs, etc.) cleaning solution, umbrella, camera, 0,6 l water bottle, several needle tip pens of different colours.

Until recently I had a Hamptons Hybrid BBP bag (Bad Back Pack – http://bbpbags.com/hamptons.html) it can be seen with the huge load that I carried on this flickr-picture http://www.flickr.com/photos/beorn_ours/2520668457/ . This model is a sturdy, durable bag that resisted to a heavy daily usage for quite a while, but… The nets were the first ones to go. I guess this is not something to be surprised of and it’s either a lightweight net or some kind of kevlar mesh to withstand time, weight and pulling. This I never considered a problem and after cutting the remains of the nets of from the bag I went on enjoying the many compartments and the amazingly comfortable Bag2Pak system. The patented marvel transforms your messenger bag in a backpack. Aside from that the laptop compartment is one of the best protected out there — it is external to the bag itself, so you can take your machine out and put it away again quickly, the compartment has semi-rigid protective panels with a soft lining and the waterproof bag closes on your laptop with an additionally rubberised and isolated zipper. And then it broke… The bag is still whole and in a perfect condition, but the swivelling carabiner that attaches the strap to the bag, has a small knob-like head that attaches it to its lower part and this is where one day, while walking (not even running) to catch the train, this know snapped and my bag carrying my beloved MacBook, went flying. I was fortunately able to catch it before it reached the ground.

This left me looking for a new bag. I am quite familiar with the whole Crumpler lineup available in Europe, so I naturally thought about them. Then for a short while I considered as well Timbukt2. I don’t know about you, but I need one bag to give me enough compartments for me to be able to organise all the stuff I carry, which means many of them. That is something the Timbukt2 models I’ve seen so far don’t have. So I turned back to Crumpler. You can even feel the quality of those bags, not only see it:

• The strap is wide and thick that it will never curl and deform itself like it is the case with generic ones.

• The internal and external lining is doubled and thick, not letting the bag being deformed whether it is burst-full or absolutely empty
• Buckles, zippers and Velcro’s are sturdy, without being hard to use

It was an ordeal to find Crumpler’s or Timbuktu2’s in Zurich, where I live, I even asked on Twitter. For those of you looking to buy in Zurich a good messenger bag that isn’t Freitag (www.freitag.ch), don’t waste the time looking in sports stores. There may be Timbuk2 in some bike shops. Some of the smaller or camera-oriented Crumpler’s could be found in some photo-equipment shops. Me recommendation is for you to start the search in Jelmoli (www.jelmoli.ch). I found there my Cheesy Disco BIG LOGO (http://www.crumplereurope.com/?product=Cheesy_Buzz&page=details&product_line=648). The laptop sleeve is removable, the there are enough compartments to have in the general compartments only the sanitisers, my Ordning & Reda notepad (http://www.ordning-reda.com/pages/index.asp) and a small history book. There are two bottles at the moment in the bag one is jasmin green tea, the other a SIGG Black Retro Steel Works 0,6l bottle with cup (http://www.sigg.com/ch-shop/en/steelworks.html?id=23&___from_store=de) and the bag still isn’t feeling too full. I feel like I returned home after having being lost for a long time.

The total external volume of the bag was also something of concern this time. I was used to rather big bags and back packs and this time not only did I explicitly not want a backpack, but I wanted as well a considerable reduction of the size of the bump I had every day on my back. This would not have been possible if I hadn’t replaced my MacBook with an iMac at home and an iPhone for all other needs when on the go, but that is a different topic for a different post and another time. It’s gotten late even for a guy with a chronic insomnia like me.
7 décembre 2009 01:52:43

The holidays are getting closer and I wanted to share some tips on Clothes Shopping.

1. Have a plan

2. Set a budget

3. Start early

4. Dress for shopping

5. Shop by yourself

6. Keep a blind eye to sales and promotions

7. Accept a salesperson’s help

8. Try it on

9. Use the three-way mirror

10. Check the care tags

11. Check the return policy

‘Tis the season! Did you know BodySparkle has an incredible collection of  Winter Holiday & Christmas Body Jewelry? Our beautiful selection is certain to whip up glad tidings and good cheer aplenty. Find the perfect gift for a body jewelry enthusiast or complete your winter look with one of our holiday-themed pieces. Check out some of our bestsellers below:

Silver Snowflake Belly Button Ring

Star of David Captive Ring

Cookie Cutter Christmas Tree Belly Button Ring

Silver Christmas Tree Jeweled Nipple Ring

14K Gold Angel Belly Button Ring

Jingle Bells Belly Button Ring




Santa Claus Jeweled Nipple Ring




Christmas Holly Belly Button Ring

Crystal Snowflake Belly Button Ring







Yesterday, was my daughters first Black Friday as shopper with her own earned money to spend.  And the first time she realized what Black Friday was all about.  She wanted to go out and how could I say no to that?  A whole day spent shopping with my only daughter.  What was supposed to be a lot of fun, ended up in a loss of my daughters wallet.

Shoppers be aware of what’s going on around you!  My daughter only had about $60 in cash left in her wallet, but she had her sharecheck card along with her ID and some other important personal information in her wallet.  I think a story like this is common and has happened to most people at one point or another in their lives.  It’s happened to me.  Just another one of life’s unfortunate lessons learned.

If you want some great shopping safety tips, click here.

This whole thing with my daughters wallet got me thinking about some of the general shopping mistakes I’ve made in the past.  So I’d like to add to some of the shopping safety tips.  Here are a few off-the-wall, random, general shopping lessons I’ve learned over the years.

• Never, ever (no matter how aggravated you are) ask for an explanation (loud enough for everyone to hear) from the woman standing in front of you, in the 10 items or less line as to why she thinks she can be in the 10 items or less line, when she clearly has more than 50 items.  She’ll say something like “I’ve waited in other lanes just like everyone else”.  Then you’ll end up saying like “Yeah, but they weren’t in the 10 items or less line, with more than 10 items”.  She’ll just say something like “Why don’t you mind you’re own f@#$%*! business?!” and you’ll say something like “I’m in this line, which makes it my business along with the one, two, three, four…nine others standing behind me”.  Also take note of the fact that she’s barefoot and is more than three times your size.  This is not a good idea.  But then again, watching and listening to an argument start between that woman and the 2nd and 4th women behind you, is kind of funny.
• Never, ever (no matter how aggravated you are) suggest to the bag checker at the exit doors, that he double-check the merchandise of woman in front of you has, in fact, been paid for.  But then again, watching the expression on the woman’s face as she realizes she will be stuck there for almost as long as she had you waiting in line, is priceless.
• When going through the drive-thru at the local fast food restaurant only to order a medium-sized soft drink, expect to wait for more than twenty minutes to get to the window.  Do NOT get out of your vehicle.  Do NOT walk up to the vehicle in front of you to voice your disapproval of the woman who just placed seven separate chicken dinners to be paid separately, for not going inside and placing the order.  This is just a dumb idea.  Because what do you do after a few choice words are exchanged and you still have to go back to your car and wait some more anyway?  And consider yourself one lucky bitch if you’re not beaten to a pulp or shot.

Yes.  I am guilty of all the above.  What can I say?  I am usually a very patient person, but I have a very low tolerance for the lack of consideration shown by others.  Unfortunately, something takes over me and I always end up saying something…usually stupid.  Am I the only one that’s done this?  Are there any shopping tips you can add or lessons you’ve learned?

So I HATE when i come up with a look in my head, go out to the store in search of it, and fail…miserably.  But, I think I’ve found a temporary solution to my problem: The Men’s Department.  And so far it’s worked!  From long loose flannels that still show my curves, to the best looking gym shoes, lately when the juniors department fails to meet my needs, I move across the aisle to the men’s section.  And it’s funny because androgynous fashion has been in the magazines for months now, but I guess it’s just one of those things you don’t know about until you try it

The recession has ripped a hole in almost everyone’s pocket, but… if you let it, it could be the best thing to happen to your personal style.  This economy forces everyone to “shop smart”, but what’s in your wallet shouldn’t affect what’s in your closet.  Fashion is still evolving whether we’re spending or not.  So all this means is that we, ”recessionistas” let’s call ourselves, just need to find other ways of obtaining the fashion we love, Love, LOVE.  Resale shops, your grandma’s hand-me-downs, even that dress that’s never seen the light of day.  It’s times like these where you get to discover more about yourself and your personal style.  It’s even a confidence booster!  Putting together a look that’s a conglomerate of a hand-me-downs, stylish accessories, and a simple t-shirt?? That’s actually chic??? It’s a GREAT feeling.

Christmas shopping is no longer confined to the local mall or an annual catalog that happens to find it’s way into your mailbox. Thanks to advanced technology, there is literally a whole world of shopping at your fingertips. The internet has revolutionized the way people shop and, besides, what better way to do your Christmas shopping than from the comfort of your own home. No longer must we suit up and weather the harsh winter days in the hopes of checking a few names off of our Christmas list. The store aisles, as we know them, are crowded and hectic.

But now, many store aisles are becoming virtual, a shopping cart is something you fill with images of a product and a checkout is something that you click on to confirm your order. Things have changed a lot in the past years and I wonder how many of us couldn’t even imagine what life would be like without the convenience of shopping on the internet. There are several tips for online Christmas shopping, which can make the experience a smooth and pleasant one.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #1: Be prepared

It’s a good idea to start your shopping with a complete list. This will save you both time and money with having to go back and place a separate order later on. With most online stores, you pay a flat shipping fee. In some cases, if you spend a certain amount of money on your order, the shipping and handling fee is waived. It’s always best to get everything you want, all at once, to save on shipping. Before you commit to buying from one store, shop around and compare prices on both the product and shipping.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #2: The early bird gets the gift

If you want to get the best selection, begin your holiday shopping early. Internet stores generally carry large quantities of every item, but even they can sell out. As Christmas draws near, it becomes more difficult to find the exact item that you’re looking for. There’s nothing like finding the perfect item and seeing the words, ‘Sold Out’ written under the price.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #3: Shop Safe

When ordering anything online, check product reviews if available. Always shop secured websites because you will be entering your credit card, or banking information, for payment. You don’t want your financial information accessed by anyone else, which is why all secured websites let you know how they protect your data.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #4: Wrap it up

If you’re like most, there’s not a lot of extra time around the holidays. If you need to save some time on wrapping, most online stores offer a gift wrapping service for a small fee. At some point during the ordering process, you may be asked if you would like to add gift wrap or a name tag. It’s as easy as the click of a button, which is much easier than trying to tie the perfect bow.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #5: Check Delivery Dates

When placing your order, check to make sure that the item is in stock or will be delivered in time for Christmas. Many times, especially near the holidays, items will go on a backorder status. It’s not uncommon for an advanced order item to have a delivery date of January, so be sure to check the status of the items in your shopping cart, along with their expected delivery dates. Not only that, but it’s also a good idea to check on the company’s shipping policy and delivery time for in-stock items.

Online Christmas Shopping Tip #6: Christmas Cards?

With all the stuff going on in December it’s easy to forget to send out Christmas cards to family and friends. But if you forget to send traditional Christmas cards in time all is not lost. In fact, there are some great sites and services online that will send your christmas cards out for you (saving you precious time). You can find services that are both free and paid, and services that send both digital and tradition paper Christmas cards.
About the Author

For some great Christmas card related resources check out http://cards.christmashub.com

Written by: Rosie Fletcher

This Thanksgiving, BodySparkle is thankful for you: our loyal customers. To show our appreciation for your patronage all year long, we’re pleased to present our Black Friday & Thanksgiving weekend specials. Get a head start on your holiday shopping and save a bundle with our fantastic deals. Check out our promotion below (offer valid through 11/30/09):

• orders over $10: free gift bag
• orders over $25: free gift bag + free first class shipping
• orders over $30: free gift bag + free first class shipping + 1 free item
• orders over $50: free gift bag + free first class shipping + 1 free item (larger choice of free items)
• orders over $75: free gift bag + free first class shipping + 2 free items
• orders over $100: free gift bag + free first class shipping + 3 free items

For extra savings, use coupon code EARLY09 to save 10% on orders over $30 (through 11/29/09).

To select your free items, simply shop normally. At checkout you will be prompted to selected your free gift. Some of our free items include: adjustable fashion toe rings, 14-gauge acrylic captive rings, 14-gauge straight barbells, jeweled earring studs, 18- and 20-gauge nose rings, 14-gauge tongue piercing retainers, nipple shields, neon Add-A-Bead packs, and 14-gauge belly button rings. Happy shopping!

A couple of years ago, a gal I know was victimized while doing her Christmas shopping. She had finished up for the day and was in the parking lot loading her bags into the trunk of her car. While she was occupied with some packages in her trunk, someone walked past her, and lifted her purse from her cart.  She didn’t even notice until she finished with her sacks and no longer had a purse to put in her car. The thief not only stole her purse, but stole her Holiday Spirit as well.    

I was so sad to learn what happened to her, and I told others to beware as they shopped and to put their purse in their car first, before loading packages.  So please, keep your Christmas Cheer intact, and load your purse first.

Here’s a little rhyme to help you remember:

“When Loading your Packages, put your Purse in First.
Because to Lose it would be the Worst!!”

Merry Christmas Shopping Everyone!!

Traditionally, the December holiday season is the most important part of the year for many businesses, especially those in retail. But so far, predictions aren’t that rosy for this year’s profits. High gas prices, high cost of living, and low consumer confidence are expected to put a damper on the holiday shopping plans for many.

But that’s not entirely true for everyone. You can expect online shopping to be bigger than ever. Why? Let me outline a few reasons why online retail sites like Amazon, to small home-based operations will be raking in the cash in the weeks ahead.

1. Very few are going to blow off the holidays, even if funds are low. And most people will buy cheaper gifts rather than cross some loved ones off their shopping list. When people don’t have a lot of disposable cash, they look for low prices. Suddenly bargain hunting becomes the order of the day.

Expect masses of North Americans to flock to online retail sites in ever greater numbers. The super-low overhead of online retail allows sites to offer wide selection at the lowest prices on Earth. After a decade of Internet shopping, millions of people are now fully aware of this truth. Expect a very large percentage of them to purchase some or all of their gifts online.

2. Gas is still high and may go even higher in the weeks ahead. This means wading through clogged streets filled with holiday shoppers is something most of our pocket books just don’t want to go through. High gas prices also mean paying for online purchases to be shipped to you is no longer an imposition. Many will be thinking “The 3 bucks for shipping is a lot less than the $20 I’ll spend driving all over town to the malls.”

3. People are working harder than ever. The demands of one, two, even three jobs while taking care of family is leaving millions of Americans will zero free time. This means they need to sandwich holiday shopping into their lunch break or even during a slow period at work. Yes, expect these folks to also do their shopping online in unprecedented numbers.

The bottom line is clear: if you’re a consumer, give yourself a needed break and do your holiday gift buying online. If you’re an online retailer, get ready for a holiday buying season you may not soon forget.

About the author:

Sharon Isaac is owner of an online consumer electronics store at http://www.mystore.vstoremarket.com. Get everything from computers to video games to books at incredibly low prices… and have them all shipped in time for the holidays. Reach Sharon at islacy4@aol.com

Written by: Sharon Isaac

Description

Black friday shopping comes to Canada. Please take precautions while shopping and do not appear as a crazy shopper because someone was already stampeded to death for a deal. Shopping is not meant to harm anyone, go at regular hours and let people ahead of you.

Please click on the link below to read more about Black friday sales coming to Canada.

Black Friday Now Comes to Canada | Socyberty.

If you’ve perused any of my older posts, you’ve probably realized I don’t live in a big, glamorous city like New York. I live in the Midwest, in one of the hardest hit areas by this lovely economic downturn.

I live in Michigan, just west of Detroit. Auto capital of North America (or at least, it was) – sidenote- go Ford!

I still have a job, thanks for asking. I also know what it’s like to budget and not have a ton of money for clothes. I certainly do not have a huge budget. Most of my clothes is either bought secondhand, on sale or given to me by my sister (thanks Cher!). Other than that, I tend to shop at inexpensive locals, such as Forever 21, Old Navy or Charlotte Russe.

I have some tips for those of you who are like me – shopping on a budget.

Shopping tip #1: Only buy it if you’re going to wear it within the next few days. If you love it that much, you’ll wear it more often. The exceptions? Off season coats, swimsuits or accessories.

My Pet Octopus necklace $14.99 Modcloth

Shopping tip #2: Buy things that you can dress up for work, or dress down for weekends/dates/etc. If you love a velvet blazer, buy it. You can wear it to work for a clean, polished look, but also throw it on over jeans and a t-shirt for an effortless weekend look. This way, you get more bang for your buck and a $45 blazer worn 25 times means you only spent $1.80 per time you wore it. Totally worth it.

Fitted Jacket $32.80 Forever 21

Shopping tip #3: If you are unsure, ask the store to hold the item for you. Go grab a coffee or continue looking around another store and think about the item you’re unsure about. Sometimes you’ll decide you want it (like I’ve done with a pair of shoes) and sometimes you’ll realize you won’t really wear it and it isn’t worth the money. Whatever you choose, asking the store to hold an item can be very helpful.
 Found at Charlotte Russe- thought about them and bought them! And I still love them!!

Shopping tip #4: Be weary of a salesperson that tells you “you look great!” I’ve had it happen to me a few times and the item is too small/bad color/too big/unflattering etc. Some salespeople really   they say, but some are just trying to sell you something because they work on commission. Which brings us to…

Shopping tip #5: Don’t feel like you HAVE to buy something. Sometimes it can be fun to go shopping without money, just to see what’s there. You don’t need to feel like you have to buy something because the salesperson was helping you.

I’m sure there are many more tips I can go into, some about shopping online, some about altering the clothes you already have. But, I’ll save those for another time!

How do you save money when you shop?

Ah, Black Friday. A shoppers dream. A fashionista’s haven. My favorite holiday. It’s the time of the year when all people let loose and the shopping madness officially commences to kick off the holiday season. It’s also the only day that stores open at ridiculous hours so people like me and you can snag super discounts on our favorite clothing and electronics. But, like any other event, you need to be prepared. So I’d like to offer some of my favorite tips to help you get through Black Friday.

1. Know What You Want: Make a List

Black Friday isn’t a day to peruse the mall and seeing what you like. It’s about being aggressive and knowing what you want. Make sure you check out the ads and make a list of what item you want and where so when the big day comes, you can beeline to the exact thing you’re looking for. If it’s a great bargain, make sure you get there first before it all sells out. Just remember that there will be hundreds of other aggressive people looking for the same stuff you want, so if you can check stuff off your list, then you won’t get home forgetting the most important item!

2. Check and Clip the Ads

This is one shopping day when doing your homework and checking the ads in the paper can come in handy. Make sure you clip the ads and bring them to the store with you, just in case of a dispute. How unfortunate would it be if you get to the register and they deny the price that you saw in the paper? Having an ad with you is also a way to bargain with a competitive store for the lowest price.

3. Get There Extra Extra Early

Some stores open extra extra early, like 4am. Make sure you check when they open and if they have an “early bird special.” Some places will offer an extra discount to those who make it there just a bit earlier than everyone else. Plus you’re guaranteed to get the best of the best, instead of showing up late to a picked over bargain bin.

4. Check out their return policy

Yes we all know that with these super low prices, we do tend to make often brash and quick purchases, only to get home realizing that we didn’t need it. Make sure that you check the store policy and see if you can return it or if you’ll get store credit or not. This will allow you to shop more freely without facing consequences later when you realized that you’re didn’t really want that $600 sweater that was on sale for $300.

5. Bring a Shopping Buddy

Just like going to gym (ok, maybe not quite as painful), getting up at 5AM to go shopping is a bit crazy. But if you’ve got a great shopping buddy to help you decide if it’s a good buy or not and give you advice, it will make your day a hell of a lot easier, and more enjoyable. Maybe she or he will even carry some of your bags for you! Just make sure you pick a buddy that has similar taste in clothing as you, or a very dedicated boyfriend!

6. Check out online savings

Many times, the night before Black Friday, stores offer a sneak peak on clothing the night before at comparable or better prices. Check out the site and see if you can’t skip Black Friday altogether and get a better deal online. Plus, you’ll get it delivered right to your door! Also, most places offer free shipping on holidays like these, so take advantage of these savings.

7. Caffeine Yourself!

If you’ve committed yourself to Black Friday, make sure you wake up and have a big cup of coffee or green tea to help jump start your day. You’ll be more alert and ready to make some great shopping purchases. Plus, no one wants to shop with a Zombie!

Being the shopaholic that I am, I have discovered several items and activities one would surely rave for with your extra bling. I am all about frugal fashion here even if I know that it’s always fun to wear a high-end, luxury item from a trendy designer. That’s why I have been on a mission to find the best deals that you can get for a hundred pesos. Get the coolest fashion without breaking the bank.

1. COOL SUNGLASSES. Be fashionable with a new pair of sunnies for a hundred bucks! If you want a brand new pair, but don’t want to shell out cash, here’s the best deal for you. There is a HUGE range of sunglasses (from wayfarers to shuttershades), and whilst there are plenty of online stores offering nice shades, you can also buy a pair of these colorful and funky sunnies in Divisoria (Particularly in 168 Mall), Greenhills (Tiangge Area), Market Market, Tiendesitas to name a few. You might even find a pair at the nearest bazaars or order online at your favorite online store. I found several online sellers in Multiply that offer a wide variety of sunnies: www.colorsandshades.multiply.com and www.juicyred.multiply.com.

2. THAT PERFECT FUNKY TEE. You will definitely find something you love with your extra hundred pesos. Even your favorite celebs are spotted wearing these great and funky tees and you can sport that look for less. The question is: Where do we get these lowest-priced tees? Answer: Nearest tiangge, APT8 at Tiendesitas and 168 mall, Greenhills Tiangge, Market Market and try searching online.. You might click on a site that offers a better deal *wink*

3. A SHIRT FOR MY BOY. Vintage shirts are a hit! It’s surprising to know that you can get one for your guy with your extra cash. I would suggest Market Market or your nearest department store (Robinson’s or SM) for a wide range of vintage shirties that your boyfriend would love. Being thoughtful need not be expensive!

4. SAVVY SCARF. I have never used scarves as an accessory, but I love the look. I just don’t know where to begin. Anyway, a decent scarf for that savvy look can cost a hundred bucks or even less. Find one at the nearest department store or even at the nearest tiangge. Pashmina scarves may be costly but you will definitely find an alternative for that. Same look but half the price. Get one for yourself and for your girlfriends this Christmas!

5. A FEW GOODY ACCENTS. Its Christmas season and festive dressing is all about sparkle, shine and glittery glam! May it be a neckpiece, pair of earrings, a cocktail ring or a bracelet; you can never go wrong with these pieces. The best part is, you can get each or a couple of these for a hundred pesos only. Unbelievable right? Go visit the bazaars and department stores and you’ll be convinced.

6. 20-MINUTE MASSAGE. Notice those lazy boy like chairs with that “Massage for Less” tag inside the malls? Get an invigorating massage for only a hundred pesos and feel relaxed after that long tiring walk at the mall. Hop in one of these cool chairs at Market Market!

7. SMASHING NAILS. Your hundred pesos can give you a basic manicure or pedicure at your nearest affordable salon. The service usually costs PhP80.00 around the metro but then it would be nice if you’ll give your manicurista a little tip for the spic and span nails. Do good, feel good and look good for less!

Your extra hundred can still go a long long way as far as shopping is concerned. This list is endless for wise shoppers. For me, thrift shopping is an incredibly fun thing to do. I love shopping , and when I can shop well without hurting my pocketbook at all, I’m always in! and lastly, there is no shame in thrift shopping. Many people seem to believe that only “not so well-off people” would shop at such a store (KURIPOT as what we call them locally), but it’s simply not the case. The people that shop at such a store are people who care about their financial well-being, and that includes both you and me.

Send a gift that is both indulgent and has positive health benefits.  A novel concept, yes, and one whose time has come.  So many gift baskets are filled with goodies that look absolutely beautiful and yet they have ingredients that will make you stop dead in your tracks with disgust.  If you read the labels while grocery shopping, why not read the labels when sending a loved one a gourmet gift.  If the information isn’t posted on their website, the gift basket company should be happy to answer any questions regarding the ingredients and label information of their products.  If you want to make a good impression, take the time to select only the best.  Look for a gift that offers more than pretty packaging and elegant wrap, because it’s what’s inside that counts.

How to Choose the Perfect Gift…Gift baskets are a very popular choice when it comes to special occasions and holidays.  They are available at various price points so that you can choose the most appropriate for your budget and they also come in a variety of selections and themes.  This makes choosing the perfect gift easy and convenient and beats wasting your precious time running around the mall. You want to be sure that you are sending the right gift to the right person. 

Helpful tips to send the perfect gift for family and friends:

1.    Consider the tastes and preferences of the person you are sending the gift to. What do they like, sweet, savoury or both, easy to eat goodies, or do they like cooking?
2.    Choose something unique, something special that communicates your care for the recipient and your sentiments.  
3.    To make a good impression, send a gift that is full of foods and treats, not fillers, and select one that they will enjoy especially if they have special diet needs or food allergies.
4.    The gift basket should be made to order, with fresh ingredients, customizable and assembled with care and attention to detail.  
5.    Choose a company that offers several shipping options so that the gift arrives to the recipient when you want it to.

Helpful tips to send the perfect corporate gift:

Gift giving in a corporate environment can build and improve rapport, loyalty and your reputation.  Most often the gift is sent to say thank you, congratulations or apologies. If the gift is for a business colleague or client, you want to be aware of the rules of etiquette.

1.    Call their company and inquire if they have any restrictions on gift giving.  Some companies have strict policies and it is advisable to adhere to their rules.  
2.    If there are no restrictions, then select a gift that not only pleases the recipient but one that also enhances the image of your   company or organization.  
3.    The gift should be appropriate to their likes and interests and should reflect the relationship you have to the recipient.
4.    If you would like your company logo included, keep it small so that it does not come off as advertising
5.    Have a gift enclosure card attached to avoid the dreaded mystery gift
6.    Consider any religious dietary restrictions
7.    Gifts for employees or colleagues are okay, gifts for the boss are not usually okay.
8.    Most corporate gifts usually include gourmet foods such as chocolate, salmon, cheese, crackers, easy-to-eat snacks and coffee.  

An elegant gourmet gift basket makes a wonderful and impressive gift for family, friends and business associates.  Use your best judgment when making your decision and remember who you are shopping for as you make your choice.

As Internet is becoming more widely used, online shopping is also growing tremendously. E- Commerce is becoming more and more famous as many businesses are attempting to go global. In this case, Internet becomes the primary means of advertising and selling their products or services worldwide. In my opinion, one of the million doors that the Internet has opened is online shopping, an activity that many have become addicted to. Shopping is a necessity for all of us, some of us really enjoy it (like me!), but then there are others who try to keep it as simple and short as possible (like a few good ladies and gentlemen I know). Well, online shopping is the best solution for both: those who consider it a chore that they try to avoid and for those who do it on a daily basis. When it comes to shopping, more and more of us are letting our fingers (and our mice) do the talking, haggling and even walking. But sometimes people are a bit apprehensive about shopping online for the first time. Once you try it, however, you will find that you love it and will make it a regular part of your shopping routine.

There are 3 reasons to love online shopping:

1. VERY CONVENIENT. It is more convenient than going to the mall or other stores, driving around to try to find a parking space, only to discover that what you went there for is sold out which is quite stressful and time consuming. Shopping online lets you avoid all of that by providing a relaxed shopping experience free from pressure and stress. So much of the vast variety of products and product information is easily searchable. Plus, there is no traveling, parking, and walking involved. An online store allows you to shop 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So you can shop till you drop at your leisure, regardless of your time zone rather than trying to fit shopping at department stores into your busy schedule. Cool isn’t it?
2. LOW LOW PRICES. Saving money is always a good idea and that is possible through shopping. How? Well, online stores specifically the local ones (found in E-BAY and MULTIPLY) have very minimal overhead costs wherein no cost for rent, human resource etc and this can translate to lower prices for you. Also, these online stores allow haggling (locally known as TAWAD) which is quite an advantage for us shoppers. As for me, I think the best deals are always found online such as free shipping, freebies (especially during Christmas season) and online discount coupons.
3. EXPANDED SHOPPING RANGE. Online shopping usually offers you much more information, including user product reviews, which can be helpful as compared to when you are at a store wherein you only have access to the product information that comes on the box or plastic. Let me reiterate the beauty of the Internet… The Internet allows you to easily compare products and prices (with no cost involve), so you can be sure that the item you purchase is the exact item you want.

So the next time you go shopping, you might want to allow your fingers do the search for the best deals and great products.. Make the most out of the beautiful opportunities the Internet is making available for our society. Seriously, shopping is just a click away!

Jazz hands, everyone! It’s football season — and that means just one thing: another chance for the good old Chicago Bears to recapture their 1985 glory. We here at BodySparkle HQ adore “Da Bears” and are pleased to present our collection of Chicago Bears Body Jewelry. What do you think BodySparklers: will the Bears shuffle to the Super Bowl this year?

Chicago Bears Helmet Jeweled Belly Ring




Chicago Bears Nipple Ring

Chicago Bears Pennant Belly Button Ring

Chicago Bears Helmet Captive Ring

The history and beauty of wooden jewelry boxes look as if to make them special. Some think they were formerly produced to carry prized gold and jewelry dating back to the mid-evil times. Prior to the 1900’s after they became massed produced, jewelry boxes were fashioned by skilled craftsman only. Mail order catalogs, such as Sears Roebuck, started making them available to the masses because of their catalogs.

With lots of types from wooden to leather, there is a shape and range of jewelry box for every fancy. Before purchasing one for someone as a offering, there are a couple of things you’ll want to ponder about. For instance; what’s your budget, how much bracelets does the person have possession of already, or does the person have any place to store or show off a jewelry box? Lots of times, you can expose what style of jewelry box someone would like by looking at his or her furniture. Is their stuff mostly dark or a lighter color wood? Steal a peek at their design to observe if it is progressive or maybe more of a victorian look. Acquire an idea, before you set out shopping, of what variety or shape the personality your shopping for likes. These few things can make your shopping experience a winner.

As long as you put some actual thought into it, the person will more than likely love the present. This will especially be valid of you’ve exposed that you paid thought to the designs and styles they fancy. There are many good deals to be found online, and the mixture to choose from will be a good deal wider than any local or customary brick and mortal warehouse.