Thank you so much to everyone who participated in my poll about spending during the economic crisis - I really appreciate it.  I first posted the poll after the initial U.S. stock market crash three weeks ago...here are the results:

56% of you are spending less money overall

20% of you have not changed your spending habits at all

16% of you only buy necessities

8% of you only splurge on makeup

Of those who posted actual comments, they noted that they were spending money only on food and gas.   Also interesting was that only 8% of respondents splurged on makeup, even though historically speaking beauty items were the few luxury items that continue to sell well.  Since I was asked by a couple of you, I was one of the 56% spending less overall.  It'll be interesting to do this poll again in a year to see where we really stand and how (if) things have changed.  Again, a big thank you to everyone who participated.

Posted by theworldsdresser at 5:39 AM EDT

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A makeup addiction can be an expensive thing. Here are some cost saving tips to get keep your budget in check.

• Sign up for company email and address lists. This means both online and at your local store. I know they can be annoying, but if you set up an email account JUST for these types of things it's not that big of a deal. Some of the best deals come from Clinique, Dior and Smashbox - you'll often get coupons for free shipping, free mascara and trial sizes and free random things like 5 gifts with one purchase! You'll get postcards for free store events, makeovers and discounts.
• When shopping online use discount codes. I personally stop by www.retailmenot.com before checking out of ANY online shop.
• Use online discounters like www.beauty.com and www.beautycrunch.com to find mid-to-high end range makeup at discount prices.
• A Freebie is your friend. Sites like www.thefreebieblogger.com and www.the-giveaway.com often report health and beauty free items - it's worth your time to check them out at least two times a week.
• Check our your local TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Costco stores - they often carry discount Stila, Smashbox, Clinique and Lancome around 30-40% off.
• Visit a CCO or CCS (Cosmetic Outlet Company/Store) for Estee Lauder lines of Makeup at 30% off. The Estee Lauder family includes MAC, Prescriptives, Clinique, Origins, Bobbi Brown among others. Click here http://www.mallseeker.com/cosmeticscompanystore.aspx to find one near you.
• If you are a makeup artist, student, photographer, model or actor, please sign up for Pro programs at the major companies. Pro programs offer discounts from 40 - 65%, you'll just need to provide proof of your eligibility. You can usually find requirements by going to a companies site (for instance NARS) and clicking on something that says "For Professionals" or "Makeup Artists."

Just remember that makeup is fun, but so is having money. Spend often, but spend wisely!

Posted by theworldsdresser at 8:46 AM EDT

Updated: Wednesday, 8 October 2008 9:31 AM EDT

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