How to be a Recession-ista

Times are tough right now, with unemployment at an all-time high and our economy’s feeble attempts to recover from a major recession. What’s a girl to do in such a dismal economic climate? Is there a way to maintain frugal mentality and still be fashion-conscious?

Yes ;)

Let me share some tips from my own personal recession experiences:

Reduce, re-use, and make money! If you’re like me, chances are you have a closet full of clothes, accessories, or hobby-related items that you’re no longer using. Turn your clutter into spending money by placing it in a consignment shop, selling it on Craigslist, or listing it on ebay. Did you know that ebay now allows sellers to list five items a month for free? Tired of those Paypal fees whenever you accept a payment from a buyer? When possible, have your buyer select the “gift” option instead of “payment” and you’ll save yourself from those pesky fees.

Buy used! Stores like Plato’s Closet offer racks of high end brands (including designer denim) for less than half the price! Even better, they accept your gently used clothing and offer either in-store credit or cash in return.

Like designer brands, but not designer prices? Look for your favorite stores’ fall lines on ebay and pay 30% - 50% less on brand new clothes. Fashionistas splurge on the latest trends, only to tire of them and move on to the next big thing. These still trendy items are usually listed on ebay and sold for incredibly reasonable prices. Gently used designer jeans and handbags are two of the things I generally scout for. Many sellers are offering free shipping as an incentive to attract buyers, so grab yourself a bargain!

Who doesn’t love a freebie? Trade in six empty MAC containers at any MAC store and pick out a free lip gloss, lipstick, or eye shadow.

Surprisingly, there are many magazines that offer promotional subscriptions. Google “free magazine subscription” and see what pops up. Last spring, I took advantage of a year-long subscription to Saveur, a premiere cooking magazine. Love it!

Stores like Nordstrom, REI, and Walmart offer a ship to store or in-store pick-up option, which eliminates shipping and handling costs.

Hit the sales! Have a European backpacking adventure planned for next year? Take advantage of REI’s used gear sales, featured at various REI locations a few times a year, and pay 50% - 70% less than the regular price.

Now is the time to start browsing for new electronics. Older models of televisions, laptops, computers, and other equipment often have their prices slashed big time right before the New Year in order to make room for new models. And don’t be afraid to mention the lower price you found at a competing store. The large chains want your business and moolah and, perhaps more now than ever, are willing to price match to keep you from walking out empty handed.

Stand up for yourself! While I’m not advocating being a bully, I do think it’s important to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. If a price has been marked incorrectly and it’s clearly the fault of the store or company, call them on it. Most places are required to honor their printed price or offer, even if it’s wrong.

Ask questions and save. I went to Starbucks and ordered a tall coffee, requesting that it be topped off with soy milk. The young man at the register proceeded to ring up my order and then charged me an additional .50 cents for soy. I pointed out that Starbucks offers free half & half and non-fat milk on their condiment bar and asked why lactose-intolerant people should have to pay for the same privilege-- he promptly deleted the charge.

When I signed a two-year contract with AT&T, I was dismayed to see an additional $30 activation fee on my first bill. I called customer service and politely inquired why I was paying them an activation fee when they would be getting more than $60 a month from me for the next two years. Again, the charge was removed.

There’s always chances for charity: You may not have a lot of extra cash laying around, but did you know that you can donate your credit card reward points (like airline miles) to charity? I looked into donating my United mileage plus points and was pleased to find a variety of worthy charities to choose from, including one of my personal favorites: the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Have a great beginning of your week! ;)