Wednesday, May 11, 2011

FABULOUS FOR LESS

Want to get the latest styles without a stimulus package to pay for it? While weathering today's economy, fashionistas are turning into recessionistas - without compromising style.I asked some  Irish fashion and beauty experts for their favourite budget beauty and fashion tips. Prepare to be inspired...






Maria Fusco, Fashion Stylist
 "Looking fabulous for less is always a valuable option especially when times are somewhat difficult ."Cash don't buy you style " is a little favorite saying of mine - and so true . The secret to a gorgeous silhouette is achieved by clever co-ordinations . A basic LBD always works . Combined with a family jewels mixed with some baubles from Penneys, it always works a treat and no-one can tell the difference .This store is also a fine purveyor of sexy shoes , and unbelievable but true , their vertiginous heels are very walkable !Investing in a set of heated rollers willl always insure our luscious locks are immaculately coiffed , saving us a silly amount of euros on blowdrys ! I would suggest you keep some Elneet hairspray always at hand, also , the vintage style hairspray can always looks great on your dresser.

Since forever I have been a lover of vintage pieces . Recently Dublin has experienced an abundance of pre-loved emporiums opening in every corner of the city . With a sharp eye , you can source some fantastic vintage or pre-loved dresses at tiny prices . A gorgeous store that any cash strapped girl should visit is Green with Envy in Rathmines .And girls , also remember that every so often , a wardrobe cleanse is essentilal . Garments that have'nt been worn in centuries can be turned into some cash at these stores . With the cash you can replenish your wardrobe .At this point , I must mention charity stores . Being fashionably clever you can pick up some real gems here .You can have all your girlfriends wondering where you bought that slinky long red Halston dress. ."



Laura Cunningham, Fashion stylist
"I think the key to Budget Fashion is to scrimp on certain items and spend the cash you’ve saved in doing so on quality staples. Once you have a really great pair of jeans, a couple of great dresses, a good handbag, a beautiful winter coat or smart blazer for warmer weather, well tailored trousers and some quality neutral shoes/boots, that will go with everything, you don’t need to spend heaps on the rest. It makes us less likely to experience that ‘nothing to wear’ feeling, which is when we spend the most money on things we don’t need and that won’t last. Then we’re free to update our wardrobes with inexpensive trend items without spending a fortune. When you do fancy a designer splurge why not visit Kildare Village or better still, Ebay."

 







 

Colette Cassidy, Make-up artist
"There are some great quality budget make up brands on the market today. I would recommend to invest in a good quality moisturiser and foundation - then go for some of the more affordable little treats like Rimmel liquid eyeliner. It’s an intense black with a precise brush and easy to apply, it definitely gives the high end versions a run for their money. Also while you’re in the pharmacy get yourself Max Factors Lash Extension mascara. I love this non clumpy, lengthening mascara and I always have one in my make up kit.


If your skin is in need of some TLC then you will love the fresh face masks from LUSH. They come in a large pot of fresh powerhouse ingredients and if you return three empty pots you get a FREE face mask of your choice! Bargain! If you’re a tan junkie like most of us then don’t use up all your nice scrubs to exfoliate it off, lie in a bath with lots of baby oil and your tan will easily come off and your skin will look so silky, white but silky none the less!!www.glowmakeupandbeautysalon.ie




 

Courtney Smith, Fashion Stylist
"I'm not going to lie. I adore designer goodies but, unfortunately, designer threads come at a price so, instead, I take inspiration from the catwalk and re-jig my own wardrobe items. I regularly frequent haberdashery shops such as The Dublin Woolen mills, Rubanesque and Hickeys. Sometimes, even just changing the buttons on a Penneys blouse, can give it a high-end effect! Buy bits of lace trimmings, cute buttons, ribbons, coloured zips etc. These little budget additions to your outfits really make a difference and you don't even need to be able to sew! There is either the magic of wondaweb or even the new fabric glue guns! Or if you really want the job done right check out Studio 54 in Blackrock for all your alteration needs! Just think like Gok Wan and you'll be 'fabulous for less' in no time!"


http://www.courtneysmith.ie/







Angela Gallagher, Professional make-up artist
   "Can you still look fabulous on a tiny budget? The answer is a resounding yes. With brands like Essence, Catrice, and Active Cosmetics, it has never been easy to look amazing on a teeny, tiny budget and these products can be picked up in Penney's, Dunnes and your local pharmacy. The Essence smokey eye kit is amazing and such value for money. I also love the Catrice concealer palette with an array of shades and a green toned concealer perfect for toning down redness. Active Cosmetics now sell their eyelashes in Penney's, €9.99 for 5 pairs and these lashes are amazing, giving the Girl's Aloud eyelashes a run for their money! Inglot Cosmetics available in Liffey Valley and Dundrum have a fabulous black gel eyeliner which does not move and can be used in the waterline, perfect for a night out!"

www.freewebs.com/bridalmakeupbyangela 

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