Bargain Shopper Blog

Written by Cara Jackson

It’s that time of year again, music festival season. There is nothing quite like the exciting atmosphere of a music festival, however festival days tend to be pricey, with tickets alone cost more than $150. It is because of this that we have some tips to help you pick out a great, affordable festival outfit.

Festival fashion should be fun, fresh and light, but never your best outfit. Most of the time a festival outfit will come home caked in mud, sweat and remnants of the day. Rather than wasting money on an expensive outfit that you can never wear again, search for an outfit that has all the fun, brightness of festival fashion without the hefty price tag.

Shoes
The most important thing to remember with festival shoes is comfort is key. While heels may look fantastic, chances are you will be in pain by the end of the day. You will also be walking around in dirt and grass throughout the day. Cute little canvas shoes are a great option. These will protect your feet and provide you with the comfort you need to dance all day. You can find these at K-Mart, Target or Big W for less than $15; a fantastic buy as at the end of the day the shoes may be ruined.

Hats
A hat is absolutely crucial to a festival. Sunstroke is not a lot of fun. Hats protect and act as a cute little accessory to complete an outfit. Adorable straw hats are always in fashion for festivals. Stores like Sports Girl, Rubi and Jay Jays have cute hats for around $20.

Shorts
Shorts are great for festivals. They let you show off your gorgeous legs, all while being extremely practical. Shorts are able to withstand vigorous dancing, mosh pitting, running to the bathroom and strong winds.

Playsuits
Playsuits combine the practicality of shorts and the style of dresses. These adorable little numbers have been increasing in popularity over the past couple of festival seasons. Check out outlet stores such as Direct Factory Outlets to find a gorgeous playsuit for a fraction of the price.

Dresses
Dresses are the old faithful for festival fashion. They are perfect for a girl who enjoys the swish and the freedom that they offer. Vintage dresses are very popular, especially for events such as the Falls Music and Arts Festival or St Jerome's Laneway that have an indie edge. Save dollars by looking through op shops for that perfect vintage look for half the price you would pay for something brand new.

Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an absolute necessity for festivals as they keep your eyes protected from the harsh sun and add a unique touch to your outfit. However, make sure that you leave your expensive designers at home! With the action of the day, there is a high chance that they will get broken, stolen or lost. Instead, buy a cheap pair from a fashion accessories store. Rayban Wayfarer style sunglasses are especially popular at festivals and can be bought for around $15 from Equip.

Other tips and tricks

- Eat a good breakfast before you leave to save money that you would otherwise spend on greasy, fast food.

- Buy a bottle of water and re-fill it throughout the day. Don’t spend $4 on a small bottle every time you get thirsty.

- Avoid buying band merchandise at the festival. By looking in the sale section on a performer’s website you can usually find great deals for less than half the price!

- Comfort is key with every festival. It should be taken into account with every item of clothing that you wear. Most festivals run for up to twelve hours, so be sure to pick out clothes that don’t restrict you and allow you to dance the hours away.

 

 

Written by Kristen Le

So far, we’ve covered the dress and the shoes; you’ve managed to borrow a hot little number off a friend and invested in some nude-coloured pumps – so far so good, but what about the accessories? Spring Racing Carnival just isn’t the same without some kind of headpiece and perhaps a little bling, so here are some tips on how to get this part right without blowing your budget.

THE ACCESSORIES

When it comes to the races, I would say I have a love/hate relationship with hats and fascinators – in particular with the latter. On the one hand, they can look absolutely stunning, and they’re nice to bring out for special occasions...but on the other hand, when else would you really need to wear something like a fascinator? Appropriate events are few and far between, and unless you’re a regular Autumn and Spring race-goer, it’s understandable if you’re a bit hesitant in spending a lot on something you may only ever wear once in your life, or at least once a year. Whilst the universe won’t explode if you don’t wear a hat or fascinator to a race day, you might feel very naked without one amongst the abundance of other frilled and feathered headwear around you.

Hats are a good option because they are practical; they provide shade and you’re therefore more likely to wear them to other occasions – lunches, picnics, the beach – and so on. Fascinators however, are usually more dainty, show your face more, and won’t reveal embarrassing hat-hair if they blow off into the wind. The downside is they can also be quite expensive! Try a DIY approach by buying pieces for your fascinator from a craft store like Lincraft or Spotlight and putting your customised headpiece together yourself. This way you can make sure the colour and style matches your outfit perfectly. If opting for a hat – you can add on embellishments and features in the same manner. Discount department stores like Target, Kmart and Big W also sell an abundance of hats and fascinators in basic colours for a decent price – have a look and see if you can spruce these up to match your outfit more, or for the biggest bargain visit a few op shops and see what you can find. Chain stores like Diva, Equip and Lovisa also sell headpieces suitable for the races, and if you don’t want to wear a hat or fascinator, a cute detailed headband will also do the trick, and are usually much cheaper.

As for jewellery, sometimes more items might not even be needed – a hat or fascinator often stands out enough, and you don’t want to clutter your outfit by over-accessorising. Stick to simple rather than statement pieces – smaller earrings and a simple wrist cuff can be enough. Check out the op shops for one-off pieces or borrow from a friend for a budget way to accessorise.

 

 So that brings our budget spring racing planning advice to a close. Have you got any special tips that you are planning on using in preparation for race days?

Written by Kristen Le

 

 Spring time always brings with it a real zest for life that I can’t help but love. Flowers start blooming, the sun seems to shine brighter, and what now appears to be only drab greys and blacks of my winter wardrobe start getting replaced by bright colours and adventurous fabrics. So it’s no surprise that one of the things I look forward to the most each spring is an event where all of the blossoming, sunshine and colour seem to entwine into a giant celebration of the season – the Spring Racing Carnival.

 The chance to take advantage of the beautiful weather, spend a whole day enjoying the company of good friends, and to get all dressed up and looking a little fabulous – it’s sometimes hard to resist the spontaneous acts of splurging that tend to happen in the months leading up to the races. A new dress here; some wedges there. A fascinator over there...but that one doesn’t match my dress for Oaks so I’ll probably have to buy a second one...ahhh! Before I know it, hundreds of dollars will have vanished from my wallet before I can utter “Makybe Diva”. So what’s the solution? Careful planning, a bit of foresight and as always – shopping discipline! Here are some tips on how to do the races in smashing style, without smashing your bank account.

 

THE DRESS

 I’ll admit, there have been times where I’ve gone out shopping and seen “the one”...you know, that one dress you lay eyes on and suddenly life feels meaningless without it? Turns out that I do this quite often, and looking into my wardrobe, it did make me think – was I really in love with each dress at first sight? Maybe, yes, but I could have saved a lot of money if I had thought ahead a little. When shopping for the races it’s natural to want to stand out, but if your dress features bold colours, zany prints or is impractical in cut, ask yourself before buying if you would wear such a dress again; try to think of at least 3 specific events or occasions you would be able to wear it to, and if not, ask if it’s really worth the price you’re paying? Consider the fabric – it will say something about the longevity of the dress, and the longer it lasts, the more chances you’ll get to wear it in the future. Also check out the washing instructions – is it “dry-clean only”? Remember these points and if it really is love, try to make sure it’s lasting love, not fleeting love! Another great way to save on your dress for the races is to swap or borrow a pre-loved one from a girlfriend – this is especially good if you’re going to more than one race day. Lastly, if you really can’t resist the urge to splurge, try buying a bright top and wearing it with a skirt you already own; smaller garments usually cost much less than a dress.

 

Stay tuned for How to plan your races outfit on a budget: Part 2 – THE SHOES

News flash: finding products to make your hair look amazing doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Save your pennies and forget your local salon. Here are our bargain-product picks for radiant-looking hair that save you money and time as well!

By Alex Lazcano.


Garnier Fructis Colour Last Shampoo and Conditioner $5.95
If you’ve splurged on getting your hair coloured then making sure that your colour stays vibrant is vital. There are loads of salon shampoos and conditioners with chemical/heat protection but on top of the cost of colour their prices make us wince. Some brands you can find at the supermarket do just as good a job. We find the Garnier brand leaves your hair feeling healthy and full, while helping to maintain colour.

Dove Damage Therapy Daily Treatment Conditioner — Intensive Repair $7.99
If you have dry and brittle hair then this daily treatment is a great alternative to getting a professional one, simply because it keeps your hair healthy and strong with everyday use. However, remember to only use a small amount to avoid product build-up.

Body Shop Coconut Oil Hair Shine $13.95
Your skin isn’t the only thing that needs protection from the harsh Australian sun. Your locks can take a UV beating as well, and swimming in saltwater can also cause your hair to dry out. While we know everybody is crazy about Moroccan Oil to moisturise hair, at around $50 for 100ml it’s out of our bargain radar. This moisturising balm from The Body Shop is made with pure coconut oil to add shine and definition to all hair types.

Pantene Pro V Deep Fortifying treatments $6.99
If your hair has been through a tough time and needs some serious TLC then try a Deep Fortifying treatment from Pantene. Not only is it affordable but you will get more than one use out of this tube. Use it once a week or once a fortnight and your hair will feel like it's had a royal salon treatment every time.

Avon Naturals Macadamia and Aloe Smooth & Silky Shampoo $3.99
Avon has a great variety of scented shampoos that don’t leave your hair feeling drab like some other non-salon brands. Priced at $3.99 they are value-for-money in a bottle. We love Avon’s shampoo with natural macadamia oil and aloe vera.

Avon Naturals Almond Milk & Wheat Protein 2-in-1 $4.99
Now ladies, try not to shudder at the thought of having to use 2-in-1…because this is unlike any 2-in-1 you have ever used or had nightmares about. This gentle shampoo/conditioner not only smells great but also leaves your hair tangle free and soft. It’s perfect for busy women, and men will love the convenience of it, too.

Batiste Dry Hair Shampoo $9.95
Running late to work and have no time to wash out your tresses? Easy spray your roots with this dry shampoo and your hair will feel clean, fresh and smell great!


What bargain hair products do you swear by? Comment below or email bargainguru@universalmagazines.com.au

With only seventeen days left until Santa arrives, the countdown to Christmas is officially on. As a smug bargain shopper who has not only bought all her Christmas presents, but wrapped most of them too, here are a few tips and gift ideas to help those of you that are lagging behind.

Before you set out...

Compile a list of who you’re buying for, your budget and some gift ideas. Wandering aimlessly through a shopping centre at crazy o’clock on the eve of Christmas Eve makes you desperate; you’ll probably end up spending much more than you intended just to end the ordeal. If you have some ideas up your sleeve, you’re more likely to complete the job in less time and with less detriment to your purse.

Once you have an idea of what you plan to buy, compare prices. Visit the websites of different brands and check the catalogues that arrive daily in your letterbox. Another great source of such information, www.lasoo.com.au features the current catalogues of stores such as Myer, Big W and Target, helping you find the best deals before hitting the shops. Many shops will better a competitor’s price in order to obtain your business. Have the discounted price quoted in writing and take it to the store that was originally cheaper to barter their price down further. You will be surprised how much you can save as the stores compete to better each other’s prices.

Bargain gifts for girls

Candles: Girls of any age will appreciate such a sweet gift. Visit Kit Cosmetics for a great selection from a range of price points, with lovely scented candles starting from around $20.
Beauty products: While online sites such as www.strawberrynet.com provide the best deals, it pays to keep an eye on the rotating sales at department stores such as Myer and David Jones, both of which regularly offer special prices for fragrances and cosmetics. Also check out brand name outlets such as Crabtree & Evelyn, The Body Shop and Natio which offer bargains year round.
Accessories: A beautiful scarf need not be pricey; check out high street stores such as Sportsgirl and Witchery where you’ll pick something up for around $30-$40.
Tea sets: A great gift is something you’d love to have but would never buy for yourself, such as a tea set! Find some affordable but gorgeous pieces at T2 or the Made in Japan outlet.
Books, CDs and DVDs: If my own behaviour is like that of other women, I rarely buy any of these three items for myself but love to receive them as gifts. Visit JB Hi Fi for the lowest priced DVDs and CDs and check out Big W and Borders for a great range of books. Again, always compare prices by checking catalogues and store websites.
PJs: Who wouldn’t welcome a fresh new nightie or pyjama set in their stocking? Again hit the outlets of your favourite brands, such as Peter Alexander at DFO, where you’ll find great reductions on past season stock.

Bargain gifts for boys

Accessories: Consider ties, belts, scarves or hats as stocking fillers for guys — all of which can be found at most factory outlets for under $20.
Wine and beer: Let’s face it – sometimes the best gifts are those we can drink! Buy your man a slab of his favourite beer or perhaps a wine hamper from sites such as www.prospectwines.com.au
Beauty products: Just like the girls, guys like to smell nice! Help him out with his favourite scent; a good starting point is Priceline or Chemist Warehouse, where you’ll find designer fragrances from as low as $10!
Sporting goods: Whether buying for your dad, boyfriend, brother or friend, chances are there’s a particular sport that takes his fancy. For the golf-lover, for example, golf balls, golf tees and gloves are a godsend when it comes to finding the perfect gift.
Clothes: Sometimes considered a dull gift, something for his wardrobe may be welcomed by the man who hates to shop. After all, it keeps him from doing it himself! Check out the Country Road and Witchery Man outlets, as well as any other brands he loves. Make sure to check the sizing of his existing clothes before you hit the shops.

For next year...

Whenever you come across a fabulous sale or an unbelievable factory outlet, consider if anything could be stockpiled for Christmas gifts. Not only does this alleviate the last-minute present-rush pressure, it increases the chances of scoring a bargain and reduces the squeeze you will feel on your wallet. For the super-organised, the Boxing Day sales are a great time to buy all your gifts and wrapping paper for the coming year.

What are your Christmas shopping strategies and tips? Comment below or email bsgm@universalmagazines.com.au

It’s official: the Aussie dollar is hovering around parity with the once mighty US buck. What this means is our humble golden-kangaroo coin now goes further when purchasing products from US-based stores online and elsewhere overseas. Known for its already slightly cheaper prices than Australia on many fashion and beauty products, American retail is now even more attractive. Even with postage costs included, the bargains up for grabs are enough to turn online-shopaphobics into add-to-cart addicts.

While we don’t want to encourage a mass exodus of local retail dollars (because that’s not helpful to our economy) — if you are interested in a little shopping offshore we’d like to point you in the right direction. Here are ten US online stores we'd recommend where you’re bound to find a bargain.

HOT TIP: US shoppers are crazy for coupons — so be sure to check online if there’s a coupon that could save you money on your overseas purchase.

www.bluefly.com  
Designer fashion and accessories for between 20 and 75 per cent off retail prices. Over 350 designers, from Miss Sixty to Jimmy Choo.
Shipping: Varies

www.shopbop.com  
Trawl the “Designer Index” for labels you love, or head straight to the SALE section for up to 70 per cent off RRP on clothing, shoes, accessories and bags. Our last browse showed up a pair of Diane von Furstenberg camouflage shorts down from $US245 to $US73.50.*
Shipping: Orders over $US100 are free; orders under $US100 cost $US10.

www.overstock.com  
Selling everything from clothing to jewellery, books, bedding and baby things — Overstock.com liquidates excess goodies from reputable brands for reduced prices.
Shipping: Varies

www.beautyticket.com  
“Department store brands at drugstore prices” is its slogan. BeautyTicket.com stocks skincare, cosmetics and bath products from major beauty brands sold at up to 85 per cent off RRP. Brands and stock change weekly.
Shipping costs: $US26.95 flat rate

www.bookdepository.com  
This international bookseller is actually based in the UK, but since it has FREE SHIPPING to anywhere in the world, we couldn’t resist putting it on our list. Books are insanely cheap, and there’s even a 10 per cent off, pre-Christmas special running at the moment. Visit the website for details.
Shipping: Free!

www.brandsboutique.com  
Handbags and apparel by luxe labels Armani, Burberry, Chanel, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana, Juicy Couture, Miu Miu and more at up to 70 per cent off retail price.
Shipping: Flat rate of $US50, plus $US5 for each additional item purchased

www.dellamoda.com  
Authentic luxury handbags, shoes, sunglasses and accessories at discounted prices. Authenticity guaranteed. Grab a pair of Chanel frames of Prada shoes and rest assured they’re real.
Shipping: From $US45

www.ebay.com  
Need we explain? You can find anything cheap on eBay — but now you can cast your net wider than Australia and still save money.
Shipping: Varies

www.shopsafe.com  
If you’re nervous about sending your credit card details off into the online international ether, visit this website to check the store you’re purchasing from is safe and secure. Shopsafe also lists a huge range of stores in various categories to help with finding the products you’re after.

www.shopzilla.com  
Just because you can smell the US bargains from here as strongly as a Krispy Kreme doughnut doesn’t mean you’ll automatically find better prices overseas. And just as in Australia, prices over there vary greatly. Do a quick search of the product/brand you intend to purchase on US-based price comparison website Shopzilla before you buy to find the best deal. This is also a great place to find out about other US discount web stores.

* At the time of writing, the Australia dollar was approximately equivalent to the US dollar.

Have you gone on a US spending spree since the Aussie dollar struck gold? What bargains did you find and where? What are your favourite US or overseas web stores for the best bargains?

Daily deals have momentarily taken over my world. Along with doubling my inbox’s waistline, they’ve added a host of new bargain-priced temptations to my wish list of “one-day-only!” specials from private online sales clubs, retail stores and shopping centres — all begging me to buy them, day in and day out. Not that that’s a bad thing ... I love bargains as much as the people you see camped out the front of department stores before Boxing Day. But are daily deals really all they’re cracked up to be?

The daily deal craze has swooped Australia this year, with around a dozen websites now offering experiences and goodies to their subscribers every day that — because of their ingenious group-buying concept or limited product availability — are much cheaper than the normal going rate. The concept, which started with the company Groupon in the US, works like this: local businesses make an offer on their product, pricing it at sometimes up to 70 per cent off recommended retail and, once a certain number of people agree to purchase the offer, the deal is “activated” and whoever wants to buy it can enjoy the deal.

Most daily deals websites focus on pampering, entertainment and active/leisure experiences — from discounted horse-riding adventures to salsa dancing lessons, facials and fancy dinners. While I’ve been tempted by these offers of cheap manicures, discount teeth-whitening treatments and accommodation packages, I’m yet to purchase a “deal of the day”. And, before I do, I’m curious to know whether some of these deals really deliver the on the promise of a full-retail-price experience for half (or lower than half) the original cost. Do you get what you don’t pay for?

Case in point: A friend of mine recently bought a hair treatment through a daily deals website, which amazingly included a hair cut, colour, foils, conditioning treatment and blow-dry at a reputable inner-city salon — all valued at $350 — for just $99. My friend (let’s call her Britney) thought she was in for the royal treatment at a third of the cost, but it didn’t turn out that way. During the session, Britney felt she wasn’t treated like a full-price-paying customer. She says she was rushed through the process without thorough consultation from the hair stylist and left feeling like her $99 — even though she had supposedly saved $250 — was a waste of money.

Of course, with some daily deals the offers are more clear-cut, such as half-price gelato or 60 per cent off the price of theatre tickets. But since many offers are hosted by small- to medium-sized local businesses that may not be used to such an influx of customers, the room for dropping the ball in terms of quality of service and the customer experience increases.

Buying a bargain shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on quality; and if the quality is diminished somehow, the consumer should be informed before they make the purchase.

The moral of the story? Before jumping on a deal or if you’re concerned about product standard, do your research. Check the supplier, read reviews, make use of the daily deals website’s social networking avenues to talk about the offers and the experiences they deliver. Alternatively, you can throw caution to the wind — which is how daily deals websites are meant to be enjoyed — and have a great night out for a fraction of the price. Just don’t sweat the small stuff. Ten-course degustation dinner for $35, anyone?

What have you bought from a daily deals website and was it a good experience? Did you feel you were treated differently from customers paying full price? If you buy a bargain deal, do customers have the right to complain if it doesn’t meet expectations?

Comment below, or email bargainguru@universalmagazines.com.au

Daily deals websites in Australia

www.dealsextra.com.au
www.jumponit.com
www.cudo.com.au 
www.ourdeal.com.au
www.allthedeals.com.au
www.scoopon.com.au
www.spreets.com.au
www.ouffer.com
www.catchoftheday.com.au
www.ourdeal.com.au
www.livingsocial.com (coming soon)

I’ll show you mine if you show me yours...

Today, I have brought my beauty case into work. Not just so I can touch up before heading out to a ‘do’ tonight, but to share with you whatever secrets I have in there for saving money on beauty products while not scrimping on quality.

Sure, we’d all love to be able to afford a bottle of SK–II AirTouch Foundation (retailing at Myer for $198) or La Crème night moisturiser by Cle de Peau — (just a mere AU $677.50 on StrawberryNET.com) — but not all of us enjoy the income of Aussie screen goddess Cate Blanchett (SK-II’s global ambassador) or Brazilian model Gisele Bundchen, who reportedly uses said liquid-gold crème.

What we need are products that have the desired effect without costing us our weekly wage. We also don’t want to waste money on eye shadows that crack or foundations that look great in the shop but turn into packet-mix icing in natural light. That’s why I’m about to compile a few of my best tips — as well some recommendations from girls in the office — about products that work... on a budget.

Bargain Guru

What are your favourite budget beauty buys? Comment below or email bargainguru@universalmagazines.com.au


FOUNDATION

“I use L’Oreal True Match foundation which only costs $32.45 at Priceline. The liquid is so light that it doesn’t clog my pores or make me feel like I’m wearing a mask everyday. It glides on easily and a little goes a long way with full coverage. I find it a great match for my skin tone and can be worn day or night.” — Kim

“I love the Body Shop Moisture Foundation ($31.95). They have an oil-free version of it, which is perfect for me ‘cause my face gets a bit oily during the day. It’s the only foundation that doesn't make me break out and feels really light. It isn't super pricey either.” — Alex

“One of my make-up indulgences is Colour Ideal foundation by Lancôme ($80, Myer). It’s expensive, but I only ever buy it when there’s a Gift with Purchase, and I usually only use it at night or for special occasions. It’s silky smooth and gives great, soft coverage. For work, I find Max Factor Lasting Performance foundation (around $37) provides good coverage without looking cakey.” — Bargain Guru

“I'd recommend the Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer ($49.50*) — it's divine! Your skin feels really fresh right after you put it on. It's a small tube and a tiny bit pricey but you’re not meant to slather on primer, so it lasts 8 to 12 months.” — Alex

* Primers by Napoleon Set — NP’s less expensive brand available at NP concept stores, Target, and some pharmacies — cost $39.

EYES

“I have been through some eye shadows in my time, and the one that has lasted forever without cracking is a Natio compact in mocha (around $13). It also highlights well and stays in place all day through to night. It’s less than half the price of my Napoleon Perdis eye shadow colour discs ($25), which ironically both cracked.” — Bargain Guru

“When it comes to eyeliner, use pencils with built-in sharpeners. L’Oreal, Revlon and Max Factor are my favourite brands (around $25). There’s no use wasting cash on a pencil and a sharpener, especially when you end up with shavings and pencil gunk all through your kit.” — Bargain Guru

LIPS

“My friends and I all swear by Lucas' Pawpaw Ointment. We use it as lip gloss. It's great for dry/cracked lips during winter and you can mix it with a darker lip gloss/lipstick over the top. It's about $5 (sometimes less) from Priceline/pharmacies for a 25g tube but it lasts forever. You can also buy large tubs of it, which are really cheap.” — Eliza

“Face of Australia Lip Glaze: there's gorgeous range of colours and it gives you the perfect amount of gloss and shine without being too sticky (so you won’t have to worry about your hair getting stuck to your lips on a windy day!). Unlike more expensive lip glosses, this range comes in at under $10.” — Natasha

BODY

“Nivea Body Moisturiser: it’s creamy, not too thick or oily and leaves your skin feeling oh-so soft. It also only has a light fragrance and is very affordable at around $7 for a 400ml bottle.” — Natasha

“I like Palmer’s Moisturising Body Oil: it smells good and is quickly absorbed if you apply just after you get out of the shower... and only costs around $10.” — Alaana

FACE

“Johnson’s Facial Cleansing Wipes (around $7 for a pack of 25): They’re perfect for when you’re in a rush or can’t be bothered going through your whole beauty routine at the end of a long day. Takes off all of your make-up easily and leaves your face feeling clean and fresh, but not dry. You can also find value-packs of three at Woolworths, Big W and some pharmacies.” — Natasha

“QV Face Gentle Cleanser (around $13 from chemists). I find foaming cleansers clean the best, but usually leave your skin feeling tight and dry — even top brands like Clarins and Lancôme make my face feel like a stretched canvas! QV’s cleanser washes the dirt and make-up away (you don’t even have to use a toner) but is extremely gentle, and cheap! I also love the QV Exfoliating Polish ($11), which is light and non-irritating.” — Bargain Guru

“Sukin Natural Skincare — it’s a range of organic products you can get in chemists and health food stores. I use the Facial Moisturiser (around $10 for 125ml). It’s brilliant and it’s all natural. I have really dry skin so this is nourishing and quickly absorbed without being greasy.” — Alaana

NAILS

“I recommend Sportsgirl ‘Nail It’ nail polish. Of all the nail polishes I've tried, it lasts the longest by far — even when compared with your more expensive nail polishes like O.P.I., Sally Hansen, Revlon etc. There is a HUGE range of colours and they're only about $6 or $7 each. You can sometimes get them on sale for even cheaper.” — Eliza