10 Cool Sites for Frugalistas
A frugalista is someone "who lives within her means but still looks good, eats well and lives fabulous," says journalist and blogger Natalie P. McNeal, author of The Frugalista Files.
If you have not yet boarded the frugalista train, you'll want to after checking out McNeal's blog and the nine other websites listed below. These sites offer frugal advice on topics that run the gamut from food and recipes to entertaining, home organization, beauty, fashion, health, travel and personal finance.
1. Wise Bread. Learn to stretch your dollars so you won't need to give up your favorite luxuries. The Frugal Living columns at WiseBread offer terrific tips on every aspect of living, such as healthy foods for under $1 a pound, lotions and hair conditioners you can make at home, and how to save money on a vacation.
2. Frugal Village. With so many clever tips to try out, you may soon find yourself living a more simple life just by making small changes here and there. Many of Frugal Village's tips help you save time as well as money. The site is all about common-sense cost-cutting without taking frugality to the extreme.
3. Shoestring. You'll find lots of useful information here, such as how to shop for "pretty cheap" to "practically posh" and where to find deals for your kids and pets. Shoestring also offers the lowdown on how to take a cross-country culinary trip without breaking the piggy bank; discover the locals' favorites -- the attractions and restaurants that are unique to the area but are still affordable.
4. Real Simple. Real Simple magazine is all about making life easier, whether it's a beauty routine, meal planning or learning how to get the most out of your hard-earned dollars for a weekend getaway. Learn the best ways to shop smarter while furnishing your house or making choices as you walk down the grocery aisles.
5. Bargain Babe. Julia Scott is a jazz-musician-turned-newspaper-reporter-turned-blogger who will help you save money on the many small purchases you make so you can save for that new car or vacation home. The site touts "Daily Tips for Savvy Spenders," such as strategies for cutting the food bill, avoiding the holiday spending blues and finding the best new coupons and deals.
6. Daily Finance. This is a great resource for saving money, investing well and starting your own business. The "Savings Experiment" page offers articles and videos on how to be budget-wise with technology, food and drink, and household spending.
7. The Frugalista. Blogger and author McNeal likes to show people how to "live the frugal and fabulous life." Her site has been praised by publications such as The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post and the Miami Herald.
8. The Budget Fashionista. Among the top fashion sites, The Budget Fashionista shows you how to navigate your favorite stores, hone in on the newest fashions and find the best deals. Author and TV host Kathryn Finney explains how to recession-proof your closets, offers tips on dressing for job interviews and shares exquisite, affordable jewelry.
9. Frugal-Fashionista. For shoppers who love fashion, this is the place for you. Frugal-Fashionista shines the spotlight on dozens of celebrities and favorite celeb outfits, popping out each item with its cost and where it can be purchased. The price tags on many pieces would surprise you. After all, a smart dresser -- and someone who has to look good for a living -- finds the best bargains.
10. The Recessionista. Blogger Mary Hall shows you can live the good life on less with advice on fashion, dining out and entertaining. The site includes interviews with designers who share the secrets to style on a budget.
Read more: 8 Tips for (Really) Frugal Living and 10 Commandments of Frugal Chic