With the economy on everyone’s mind; sticking to your budget is more important than ever before, and here are some ideas to keep you looking fab minus the tab.

The Ole Switch-A-Roo

Don’t have money in the budget for that new outfit? No sweat my pet, organize a clothing swap with your girlfriends, and get a few new-to-you pieces to spruce up your wardrobe.  Here is how it works: spring clean your closet, find things that you’d want to swap. The items have to be in good condition, trendy, and ready to be worn (no dirty clothes).

Take them to the designated location, and swap until your heart is content.  Jeans, handbags, accessories, and wives (according to ABC) are all swappable these days.   The sky is the limit, have fun, be creative, and most important you’ve got new clothes and stayed with in the family’s budget.

Hey There, Sleeping Beauty

Adequate sleep is one the most beneficial things we can do to instantly improve our appearance.  It also boosts our immune system, as well as helps the nervous system function properly.  Adults generally need between seven and eight hours of sleep each night.  If you experience problems sleeping, consult a physician as there may be an underlying issue.  Sweet dreams.

Polish Your Nails

Nail polish has the ability to transform boring and drab into totally fab.  Choose a color that you haven’t worn in a while.  This will make your nails pop.  In 30 minutes you can have a fabulous nails and an improved look, all without spending a dime.

How have you reinvented yourself for FREE?

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.I saw this machine at a mall while visiting family in Lynchburg, VA. My first reaction was ooh that’s pretty cool, but then the more I thought about it.  I prefer the hands on approach to skin care and products.

I am certain the “marketing genius’” behind this monstrosity thought this will be great for business.  Sure, initial cost for equipment is on the expensive side, but over the long haul.  This will pay for itself.  A lot less headache than an under paid, disgruntled mall employee.

From a consumer stand point, while my initial reaction was one of amazement.  That only went so far.  What happens after I’ve stood there and watched the video loop a few times, and read the product menu?  Now what?

I may still have questions, and who can answer them for me? Certainly not this automated machine. I am just as stoked about the advancements in technology, as the next person, but there is something very human about being able to interact with another person.

While technology is exciting,  there is a level where I have to draw the line.  Proactive is no la-di-dah product line (this is serious stuff), and I think they should be more Proactive (pun intended) and have trained estheticians assisting with product purchases. BTW- I’ve never seen anyone walk up to this machine, that’s in the middle of the food court and buy anything. Skin care is personal matter, and deserves a level of intimacy.

Did you know that if you are using proactive products you should not wax?

We are being bombarded with talks of an economy gone bad. The information overload can be overwhelming, but we have to stand tall and, most importantly, look good while we wait this thing out.

Here are a few things that you can do right now to look your best.

Clip Coupons

Grab your scissors, local newspapers, and a few of those value pak ads and clip coupons to your favorite spa or for beauty products. If the thought of doing so seems daunting, add your girl friends, a few bottles of wine from Fieldstone Winery, and make a party of it. This could save you big bucks and put a little wiggle room back in your beauty budget.

Stay Connected

If you are serious about keeping yourself pampered, join your esthetician’s e-newsletter, Facebook Fan Page, or follow her on Twitter. This way your ear is to the ground; and when she has an awesome special, you will be in the know.

Find a Beauty Buddy

Some spas offer packages “buy 9 and get 1 free” or something like that… Well, why not partner with a friend or foe, just as long as you are beautiful, and take advantage of a package deal. You can split the cost among you and keep yourself looking fierce while saving money.

Word of Mouth

Hey, even if you don’t have a pair of scissors, a computer, or friends, you can still be beautiful on a budget. Become a glambassador for the esthy that you believe in. Send referrals her way and take advantage of loyalty programs offered by your esthetician. All is fair in love and beauty.

The squeaky wheel gets the oil. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Remember, this is all about survival of the cutest.