Frugal and Fabulous: A Broke Twenty-Something's Money Guide

Today in America you're basically born into debt…literally. Just check the US Debt Clock. If that isn't enough of a burden, being in your twenties also presents an entire new set of struggles (student loans, rent, mani/pedi, etc.). Maybe one day you'll marry a rich man who sweeps you away to the mansion of your dreams and solves all of your problems (if that happens, ask if he has a brother). Until that happens, here are a few tips to make your dollar last a little longer:

• Dine on Appetizers

Cooking can be so time consuming. Who doesn't love to grab a bite to eat with friends and vent about the workday. Sometimes you don't always have the money to buy an appetizer, entrée and dessert. And let's not forget about drinks! Instead, stick to just an appetizer. Turn it into meal for two and have more money to spend on drinks. If that isn't enough, have a snack before hand so that the appetizer will be filling enough.

• Coupons

Coupons are your best friend. We aren't talking about the paper ones that your grandmother used to cut for you out of catalogs. Coupons meaning Groupon, RetailMeNot, etc. Not only will you save money, you'll be able to get exclusive deals from some of your favorite stores and restaurants.

• DIYs

There are a million DIY videos about all sorts of things. Here's a hint: WATCH THEM! Try making a few of your own cosmetics like facial masks and hair conditioners to save money on buying that $20 bottle of shampoo just because it's vegan. Experiment with home decor. Make decorative storage boxes to put in the living room and to decrease clutter. The possibilities are endless. Just don't go too overboard. Sometimes a DIY can turn into an extreme makeover and the whole point of trying these is to save money.

• Save

Set a small amount of money aside every week. Start with a dollar or two and gradually increase the amount as more weeks pass. Just try not to dip too much into the savings.

• Count Your Pennies 

Spare change comes up often. Start collecting it. Once collected, take it to the nearest coins to cash machine and watch your forgotten pocket change turn into cold hard cash.

Your twenties are supposed to be the best years of your life. Enjoy them, but don't go broke doing it.

Stay stylish,
FS