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new blog series: aspirational brands

[ 0 ] February 27, 2012

They’re called ‘aspirational brands.’ In marketing-speak, that means a large portion of the brand’s target audience will probably never be able to afford their products.

Sounds counter-productive, right? But by cultivating an aura of exclusivity – with prices to match – aspirational brands ensure that their products remain a fantasy that everyone wants to buy, even if they can’t.

You see the logo, you hear the name, and you think wistfully of how nice it would be to have some. Of course, there is a smaller group of people who actually can afford to buy these products. (If you’re one of these people, congratulations! …and you can probably stop reading now.)

We’re going to share a little secret with the masses: you can afford to buy into these aspirational brands, too. Through a series of blog posts, we’re going to introduce you to some of the premium names you’ve only known from afar and show you how it’s possible to actually own products you thought were out of reach. Because while it may be true that the Gucci store doesn’t accept coupons, Gucci products are available at lots of places that do…

We collect and curate coupons from all over the web and give you access to seasonal discounts, flash sales, friends and family discounts, free shipping promos and some super-cool ideas that you might not have considered.

Coming soon, the fabulous savings blog is going to introduce you to a new brand each month and provide a little of the story that’s made them what they are today. But we’re also going to give you tips on how to stop staring longingly through the window and get in there and start shopping! Designer labels can be yours!

Together we’ll turn fantasy into reality!

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top men’s picks from the Urban Outfitters spring sale

[ 0 ] February 24, 2012

You might think guys see the word “sale” and their brain processes it as “Oh, did they drop the price for the newest Call of Duty?” And this would be accurate. But I can’t lie, us gents love a good deal on clothes, too. That’s why I took a look at the hottest men’s fashion items from the Urban Outfitters Spring Sale.

See something you like? Don’t get your fixed-gear bike in a tangle, just use our free online Urban Outfitters coupons to save on your order.

Tops

All-Son Flecked Cardigan

$29.99 (Was $39.00)

500 Days of Summer may have been three years ago, but cardigans are still a modern man essential. Don’t worry if the green is too garish for you, it also comes in black, grey and red.

All-Son Solid Heather Y-Neck Thermal Henley

$9.99 (Was $38.00)

You might recognize this Henley shirt as the costume of choice for TV character Dexter. And who wouldn’t want to look like a dapper serial killer with good intentions?

Bottoms

BDG Cutoff Chino Shorts

$9.99 (Was $39.00)

With one of the mildest winters yet, it wouldn’t be ridiculous to snag a pair of these while they’re still $9.99.

Levi’s 513 Slim Wale Corduroy Pant

$39.99 (Was $58.00)

Who doesn’t love a slim corduroy pant? Get one in tan, black, grey – the color is irrelevant, you’re going to look good either way.

Jackets

Urban Renewal Vintage CPO Jacket

$19.99 (Was $59.00)

Ryan Gosling was spotted wearing something similar, and I don’t know if you know this, but Ryan Gosling? He’s kind of an okay-looking dude.

Hawkings McGill Striped Harold Blazer

$49.99 (Was $119.00)

Okay, so maybe you don’t look like an A-list celebrity. A quality, all-purpose blazer like this will at least make you feel like one.

Shoes

Josef Pattern Plimsoll Sneaker

$29.99 (Was $44.00)

If you’re tired of slogging to work in over-sized rubber boots, I feel you. Thank god for spring shoes. Also, the tan zig-zag pattern can go with nearly any pair of pants you have.

Hawkings McGill Manhasset Buck Shoe

$39.99 (Was $58.00)

The, shall we say, bolder gent can rock a good pair of ox-blood colored shoes. Especially if they’ve been marked down $20. And are suede. Just saying.

Accessories

Urban Renewal Vintage Plaid Scarf

$4.99 (Was $19.00)

The cheapest Urban Outfitters item on this list also happens to be the most practical, especially if you have a cold Spring ahead of you. Available in red or dark blue plaid.

Rothco Canvas Duffle Bag

$24.99 (Was $39.00)

Yeah, tote bags are great… for groceries. But when we need to get around, us dudes need something more substantial. This canvas carry-all makes for a great overnight or gym bag.

What are some of your favorite buys from Urban Outfitters?

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dining out on a budget: 5 easy ways to eat out on the cheap

[ 0 ] February 23, 2012

Many of us are living on a less-than-ideal budget these days. While we’d all love to go out every night and order delicious $8 pomegranate martini’s without worry, the reality is we just can’t get away with it. There’s no need to skip out on dinner all-together though. You may not be able to dine in luxury, but you can still make the best of it with these five eating out savings tips.

1. order appetizers. Most of the time portion sizes at restaurants are too big anyways. So, instead of getting one big plate of the same thing, why not order a few appetizers to share among the group? Not only will you spend less since appetizers are cheaper than entree items, you’ll also get to try out a variety of dishes.

2. clip, print and save. Before you go out look around for coupons. Check online (see our Restaurant.com coupons) and in local grocery flyers or newspapers. You can also follow our Pinterest board for up-to-date printable coupons. Admittedly, if you’re headed out on a first date, this may not be your best option. Some may feel a tad uncomfortable using coupons at a restaurant in the first place. But, if you’re with people you feel comfortable with, and you’re looking to save, then I say use ‘em! They wouldn’t offer coupons and discounts if they didn’t expect customers to take advantage.

3. skip the drinks. I know, I know. This one can be a toughy. But, if you’re really trying to stretch your hard-earned dollars, it’s definitely worth it. Order a water to go with your meal (free!), or forgo those alcoholic-beverages for drinks that come with free refills such as coffee, tea or soda.

4. pay attention to daily specials. Most restaurants have deals for each day of the week. You can get anything from all you can eat wings to cheap martini’s, depending on where you’re going and what day of the week it is. Check out the website of the restaurant you’re interested in and plan which day to go beforehand based on the deals they have available. I find that Tuesdays are usually best for cheap eats, since it’s the traditionally the slowest night of the week.

5. do lunch instead. Eating out during dinner hours is usually more expensive than eating out at lunchtime. So, next time you plan on eating out make it a lunch or even breakfast date instead. You’ll save money and beat the crowds.

What do you do to save on eating out? Share in a comment below!

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10 Best Amazon Books Under $10

[ 0 ] February 21, 2012

We love a good read here at FS, especially when we can get Amazon books for cheap! So we’ve scoured the online giant’s bargain books selection for the 10 most entertaining reads you can get for a cool $10 or less. And don’t forget to use our Amazon coupons for even more savings.

1. It by Stephen King - $8.99

They don’t call him the Master of Fear for nothing. If you’ve never read the reason why most Gen X and Y members fear clowns, you might want to start now. If you’re brave enough, that is.

2. 1984 by George Orwell - $9.99

If your teachers didn’t make you read this infamous dystopian tale, you were really missing out. Without spoiling too much, it’s a book about a totalitarian society that’s not too far off from our own. Side note: this title was hilariously found listed under “non-fiction”.

3. This Is Why You’re Fat by Jess Amason & Rich Blakely - $9.99

The meme-worthy food website that launched this book (which shut down last year) was so-bad-its-good and the tradition continues in this collection of indulgent and disgusting foods. Meat cakes? Corn dog pizzas? Oreos stuffed with 30 layers of creme? Don’t mind if we do.

4. Wicked by Gregory Maguire - $7.99

You might have sung along to the musical, but have you clicked your heels for the bitingly witty book yet? Grab your broom already! No one mourns the wicked…

5. Serenity: Those Left Behind by Joss Whedon - $9.99

Sure, Buffy The Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon’s Serenity was a box-office flop, but it lives on in the form of this brief but entertaining graphic novel. All we have to say is: poor Wash.

6. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith - $5.05

The literary “trend” of remixing old classics with darkly funny monster themes might be over, but there’s no reason not to check out the book that started it all. Perfect for readers who prefer a little blood with their 19th-century romance.

7. Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane - $6.00

Nobody does psychodrama thrillers better than Dennis Lehane. This gothic mystery drama will be waaay more effective and chilling if you read it before watching the movie.

8. The Disaster Preparedness Handbook by Arthur Bradley - $5.98

Is there really a bad time to prepare for a disaster? Not to mention the price of this definitive (and potentially life-saving) guide is definitely right.

9. The Corrections: A Novel by Jonathan Franzen - $6.00

Legendary novelist Jonathan Franzen’s 500+ page family opus was worth the long read at full price, so it’s absolutely worth it at a meager $6. Bonus: HBO will be adapting it into a mini-series starring Ewan McGregor.

10. Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary by David Sedaris - $8.80

David Sedaris eschews his usual wry essay style for a collection of grimly funny animal fables. It’s about as weird as it sounds, but still highly entertaining and undeniably Sedaris-like.

What are some of your favorite bargain books you’ve found on Amazon?

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$25 off Jackson Hewitt Tax Service printable coupon

[ 0 ] February 15, 2012

What’s next after Christmas, New Year’s and Valentine’s? Well, my friends, that would be…TAX SEASON. Eeek!

Don’t fret. This year, get smart about your taxes and save while doing it. Use this printable coupon to get $25 off tax preparation. Just present the coupon to your tax preparer to save!

Offer good until April 30, 2012.

(click the image below for a printer friendly version of this coupon)

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love bites: top 8 anti-Valentine’s Day activities

[ 0 ] February 14, 2012

The so-called most romantic day of the year isn’t hearts, roses and chocolates for everyone. February 14th is fraught with events and activities for couples, but what about the singles and self-professed Bridget Joneses?

Tell Saint Valentine how you really feel with our top 8 ideas for Anti-Valentine’s Day activities:

1. Anti-Valentine’s Day Movie Marathon

There’s nothing better than using a feel-good holiday to watch a few feel-bad movies. Our suggestions? 500 Days of Summer, The Breakup, Kill Bill, Fatal Attraction, Unfaithful and any Lars Von Trier movie. Get your marathon started with our Netflix coupons!

2. Throw an Anti-Valentine’s Day Party

This might be the most obvious activity, but it’s worth it if you have a few like-minded friends. Whip up a batch of broken heart-shaped cookies, serve all your appetizers on skewers and blast some angry music. Also, have booze on hand. Lots of booze.

3. Have an Anti-Date

For those rare Valentine haters who are actually coupled up, go against the grain this year. Don’t bother going out to an overcrowded restaurant. Splurge on a nice bottle of wine, exchange a few gag gifts or buy the sappiest VD cards and make fun of them.

4. Take a Haunted Tour

Getting scared silly is the perfect antidote to frilly pink hearts and cupids. If your town offers a haunted tour of any kind (haunted houses, murder mysteries, etc.) what are you waiting for? Just use our free Viator coupons for 7% off the haunted tour near you.

5. Single in the City

Want to go social? Google your city + Anti-Valentine’s Day and you’ll be surprised at what pops up. Many urban areas across the U.S. have special events, bar nights and other social activities for the fabulously single on February 14th.

6. Send an Anti-Valentine’s Day Card to Your Ex

For the truly brave. You can find some great (and bitter) card ideas here, and some hilarious cards from Etsy here.

7. Celebrate “Singles Awareness Day” Instead

Couples get all the attention in February, but what about everyone else? This tradition actually exists in South Korea and China (Black Day and Singles Day, respectively).

8. Do Nothing

Don’t care about Valentine’s Day? As the famous motivational saying goes, “Keep calm and carry on”. Bust out that novel you’ve been putting off reading, eat something really delicious and unhealthy, or catch up on all those episodes of New Girl you’ve DVR’d. It’s just another night, after all!

For more Anti-Valentine’s Day goodness, remember to read our Dating Site Horror Stories. What are you doing on February 14th?

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Happy Valentine’s Day!

[ 0 ] February 14, 2012

Whether you’re attached, dating, happily single or…

feeling like the only one on the teeter-totter, we wish you all the best this holiday! Remember:

We love ya! xoxo

Happy Valentine’s Day from the fs team!

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anti-Valentine’s: dating site horror stories

[ 0 ] February 9, 2012

Get used to making that face.

“Online dating? Hah, what could go wrong?”

This is a sentence nobody has ever uttered in the history of mankind. Nobody sane, that is, because sane people know that online dating really brings out the crazies and weirdos. Think most couples end up like a happy eHarmony ad? Think again.

I consulted readers, friends and the invaluable source that is the Internet for the worst online dating stories and got exactly what I asked for. If you’re one of those fluttery love-is-forever types, I advise you to read our 12 Romantic Travel Activities for Less post instead. These crazy stories are for all of our fellow anti-Valentine’s!

the law vs. romance

Lexi – I went on a date with a guy I’ll call Charlie after connecting through Facebook (we had mutual friends… I know, I know, lame). We met at a bar and he looked like he was going to drop dead in fear. I asked him what was up, but he refused to admit anything was wrong. After several quickly consumed drinks and very awkward conversation, Charlie ushered me out of the bar and across the street. Then, holding my hand, he started RUNNING full speed! He slowed down after a few blocks and said “Whew! That was close. I saw my parole officer sitting behind you in the bar. I’m not supposed to be drinking.” I took my broken high heels off, said goodbye and hailed a cab.

Richard – I had a date where, while kissing on a picnic blanket in the gardens outside Buckingham Palace, Royal Police interrupted and tried to determine if either of us were prostitutes. Moral of the story: don’t go on a date with someone you only know from the Internet where there might be a heightened level of security and policing.

when worlds collide

Pinotnoirlover – I posted an ad on Craigslist and I wasn’t expecting much because of its skeevy reputation. But I figured whatever, I’m 22, still young, what’s the worst that could happen? It turns out that the worst that could happen is getting an email response from a man I recognized as my 5th grade teacher. Who attached very, very inappropriate pictures. I never posted on Craigslist again.

Giana – After talking online to this one guy for close to a month, we decide to go out on a date. I was really excited, he was really cute from his pictures and was always charming and funny in his emails. When we met he brought along his son who I never knew about. On his son’s birthday. He then brought us to Chuck-E-Cheese.

picture perfect

Nick – The worst date I’ve ever been on was with a girl from OkCupid. We took a walk downtown and she seemed more interested in taking pictures of skyscrapers than in making conversation. When she did speak, it was about her Pokemon collection (I don’t want to judge, but she was 30). When I suggested we get something to eat, she started to break down and cry. I did my best to console her and tried to deflect all the shady looks I was getting, so I just took her home. I got a text a week later saying she had only met me to make her boyfriend (of three years!) angry.

missing manners

Lauradelrey – A very handsome man took me to an Italian restaurant and could not. Stop. Imitating the waiter. It was really bordering on offensive. “Whatsamattawitchu? You a-no like-a dah specials?” I wouldn’t laugh or acknowledge his impersonations and he ended up getting really angry. He actually said he hoped nobody would put a horse’s head on my bed the next morning. I think we ended up splitting the bill. Thanks for nothing, Plentyoffish!

Anonymous – I was exchanging messages with a man on eHarmony for a while and we finally decided to meet at a restaurant. He sits down and after a couple minutes of conversation he goes “Just so you know, with the last few girls I’ve been out with I’ve had to drop like $100 on each of them and I can’t do that again. We’ll just get a drink.” I understand dating can be tough on a guy’s wallet but I’m not looking to bleed anyone dry! And who actually says that to their date?!

What’s the worst date you’ve been on with somebody you’ve met from an online dating site?

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top ten Valentine’s Day gift ideas from FragranceNet

[ 0 ] February 8, 2012

Besides the other classics – flowers, chocolates…you know the drill – perfume is one of those Valentine’s Day gift ideas that never goes out of style. Below are my top five perfumes for women and top five colognes for men to help make choosing the perfect scent a little easier this holiday.

Plus, get 15% off fragrances, skincare, haircare and makeup with our exclusive FragranceNet coupon!

top 5 men’s colognes

Lacoste Pour Homme

Original Price: $43.40 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $36.98 (total savings = $6.42)

Sporty, fresh and clean. Do those words describe your man? If so, this scent is the perfect choice for him. Between his tennis sets and debate team meetings, that prepster guy of yours will smell fabulous with a spritz of Lacoste under his cable knit sweater.

Armani Code

Original Price: $44.79 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $38.07 (total savings = $6.72)

For something a little more sensual, treat your man to Armani Code. A deep woodsy, citrus scent that’s perfect for a night out…or in. ;)

Polo Double Black

Original Price: $59.19 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $50.31 (total savings = $8.88)

When I think of this fragrance, I think class and sophistication. It’s deep, rich and has a touch of sweetness. Sounds like the perfect man, doesn’t it? Well, even if your Valentine isn’t all that, at least he can smell like it!

F By Ferragamo

Original Price: $33.00 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $28.05 (total savings = $4.95)

If you want to get him a scent that he can wear anytime, this cologne has the perfect balance to take him from the office to evening.

Burberry Brit

Original Price: $28.28 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $24.04 (total savings = $4.24)

You just can’t beat the classics. This one’s elegant, classy and almost always appropriate. It’s a nice woody scent that’s not too overpowering so he can wear it all day long.

top 5 women’s perfumes

Romance by Ralph Lauren

Original Price: $60.19 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $51.16 (total savings = $9.03)

I know what you’re thinking: ‘She obviously picked this one because of the name.’ Well, I won’t lie, it did have a little influence in its spot on this list, but I swear it’s not the only reason! One word describes this scent to me: Pretty. It’s light, floral and ultra feminine. Perfect for a woman who enjoys being girly.

Poison by Dior

Original Price: $103.79 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $88.22 (total savings = $15.57)

Is your Valentine sensual and romantic? Then this, my dear, is the perfume for her. Let out her darker side with this rich and bold scent from Dior. Just let her know not to go too crazy with it. Just one spritz will do. This stuff is strong, but sooo good.

Daisy by Marc Jacobs

Original Price: $59.19 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $50.31 (total savings = $8.88)

Well, I just had to add this one to the list since it’s my personal all-time favorite! This scent is light, balanced and appropriate for pretty much any occasion. If you want to get her something she can wear anytime, this is the scent for her. Plus, the bottle is super cute which is always a plus.

Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker

Original Price: $31.19 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $26.51 (total savings = $4.68)

I recently included this scent in our top Valentine’s Day gifts under $100 post. It truly is a beautiful scent which, like Daisy by Marc Jacobs, can work for almost any occasion. It’s light, floral and, well, lovely!

Sheer by Stella McCartney

Original Price: $64.19 | Price with coupon (use code FABU15): $54.56 (total savings = $9.63)

Is your girl the natural type? If she’s into all things organic, she’ll surely appreciate this fresh scent from every nature-lovers home girl, Stella McCartney. This fragrance is daytime perfection with a light floral scent and citrus notes.

What’s your favorite perfume and/or cologne? Share your answer in a comment below!

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the best of the worst Valentine’s Day gift stories!

[ 0 ] February 7, 2012

Ah, Valentine’s Day. A day filled with happiness, love, romance and bonding. Psssh, yeah right! If you’re into that stuff this holiday – look away! For my fellow anti-Valentine’s, read-along and enjoy.

In preparation for this post, I threw out the question – “What’s the worst Valentine’s Day gift you’ve ever received?” And boy, were there more responses than expected. So, we’re dishing the dirt on the top, worst gift stories of Valentine’s past.

Read below for the craziest, most hilarious worst gift stories we received from you.

And remember: if you’re looking into really impress your valentine this Feb. 14^th , don’t forget to check out our top Valentine’s gift ideas under $100!

archery bows, Jimmy Buffet and garbage cans

Apparently some “romantics” just don’t understand the point of gift-giving, as proven by our first set of gift stories. Hint: When giving a Valentine’s gift remember, the gift is not for you. It’s for your Valentine. Get something you think he or she will enjoy!

Brina from The Younique Boutique - My ex-husband gave me an archery bow for Valentines Day. He was a hunting enthusiast and since I had zero interest in archery and/or hunting, I am pretty sure he used the occasion as an excuse to buy a second bow that he had his eye on. What a Prince Charming.

Jennifer - My boyfriend gave me a Jimmy Buffet CD. I cannot stand that music… but it’s his favorite.

Maribeth - The worst Valentine gift I ever received was a grouping of garbage cans. One was a yellow janitorial style, five-gallon bucket on rollers complete with ringer and a mop. There was also a waste basket and a 50 gallon garbage can in the group. You might think that this was a joke but it wasn’t. This guy was serious. I broke off our relationship. He went to a mutual friend indignant and said, “She wouldn’t have a bathroom scale, a broom, or a garbage can if it wasn’t for me!

old pizza, ‘found’ flowers and sawdust

I’m not sure if there’s any saving this next group of gift giver’s. This set has left me speechless!

Cindy from BohlsenGroup.com - I picked up a previous boyfriend from work, and he said, “I got you something for Valentine’s Day.” He handed me the pizza box from his lunch, and he had carved a heart shape out of a piece of pizza. Before you say ”aw,” just picture it: A cold, congealed, leftover piece of pizza from 5 hours earlier. My face fell. And he got so angry at my lack of gratitude that he grabbed the box and threw it out the car window. Needless to say, I married a far sweeter man! (And yes, that was the only gift I received that day.)

Rebecca - I was trying not to make a big fuss about Valentine’s Day because I knew my (ex)-boyfriend was tight on cash. So I just asked that on Valentine’s he cook me my favorite meal. Valentine’s Day comes, he shows up to my house 2 hours late with a single one of those miniature roses that he later admitted he had “found.” That was it. He then said it was too late to start cooking. Happy Valentines Day. I have since moved on.

Fran from PunksAndRoses - I received a bag of sawdust one year for valentines day. Yes, really. I had mentioned that I really wanted some sawdust to mix with beeswax and pine cones to make some firewood starters for my fireplace. So for valentine’s day I got a bag of sawdust in the mail.

break-up flowers, bb guns and irons

If you’re planning on leaving a relationship, giving flowers to your oblivious-to-your-cheating-ways girlfriend prooobably won’t make up for it - just sayin’! Read on!

Lynn Maria from Old Maid Cat Lady - Worst Valentine’s gift I’ve ever gotten was flowers from my college boyfriend. Why was it the worst? Because we were in a long-distance relationship at the time and I’d just called him the Saturday before to ask him what was wrong because I’d sensed things weren’t the same between us any more. He said that he’d “just been writing me a letter,” which I knew was not a good thing. So I was waiting for the letter to arrive, and then Valentine’s Day comes that week and I get flowers from him. I called to ask WTH was up with that, and he told me he didn’t want me to get the letter on Valentine’s Day, which really told me it was bad. And it was; he broke up with me via letter. Had met someone else who was more available than I was (i.e., in the same town). I kicked myself for wasting three years of my life with somebody who I wasn’t going to marry, and trashed those flowers that were an ugly reminder of it all. Never have enjoyed getting flowers, ever since then, because it always makes me think the guy sending them has done something he’s trying to make up for!

Rita from Chi-Town Cheapskate - The worst gift I got? A BB Gun, yep you read that right. A hand-held BB Gun. I thought it was a joke, it was not. As it turns out he wanted it so he bought it for me for Valentines Day then took it and kept it. Guess that was his way of being frugal. It made me feel like I didn’t matter. Needless to say that relationship did not last!

Katie from U Star Novels - My worst gift was an iron…but my best gift was a personalized romance novel, starring me and my Valentine.

What’s the worst Valentine’s Day present you ever received (or didn’t receive)? Are you spending this Valentine’s with the one that gave it to you?

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