3 ways to save money when you are just starting out

Hi I'm Dee,

I'm a 30 something independent woman, trying to learn as much as I can about managing my life better. I have a pretty good job, and a Masters....and the bill that came with it. I like technology, makeup, and politics. If you like what you see, would you be kind enough to follow?

I thought I'd start my blogging experience by writing about some ways I have saved money over the years. A lot of these I learned when I was just starting out on my own. I would like to expand eventually and do a lifestyle blog. I'm new to all of this so please be kind. Keep in mind, these are some ways I found work for me. I can't guarantee them for everybody. Do your own research and find the path that fits best for you!

1. "Google it"
   

This seems to be one of those "duhhh" things, but it isn't. You would not believe how difficult this is for many Americans still. People in my office will literally sit in front of the computer waiting to be spoon fed something. There is literally a wealth of information online on how to do just about anything. Point in case: A few Christmases ago, my parents got me a Kindle fire. A few years into owning it, on Thanksgiving day, it took a nasty spill on a tile floor. The screen was horrendously cracked, and took a nice chunk out of my finger anytime I tried to swipe. Because the Fires were still relatively new, a replacement was going to cost me about 70 bucks. My Kindle was a part of everyday life, but I couldn't swing that 70 bucks for at least 3 months. On a whim I looked on Youtube to see if there was anything about replacing the screen, since I knew you could do it with phones. Sure enough there was, and it looked relatively easy. For 15 dollars (Amazon), and with a couple of tools and some patience, I was able to replace the screen, good as new. I have also done this with my computer's hard drive. I am not a tech expert, and I don't have any prior training on these things. The only advantage I would give myself is being a millennial, I'm slightly more comfortable with technology. More complicated things we all have to pay for, but my point is if you don't at least research it, you'll never know if you could possibly do it yourself.

1. Clothing
   

This one can be a bit tricky to navigate. I could literally write a book on this issue. But again, with some research it becomes easier. My job is in a professional environment where looking your best is very important. Power suits and fake eyelashes are found everywhere. It's a little difficult for me to run into Express and spend 40 bucks on one blouse. And fast fashion clothing will come apart faster then you can blink, as well as being in today and out tomorrow.

A. Start with the basics. Solid colored shirts and pants may be considered boring, but they are interchangable.
B. Fast Fashion is cheap, but also fast moving. The cold shoulder blouse is all the rage right now, but will take a few years to come back around again. Save your money and invest in some sturdier clothing
C. Check yard sales/Goodwill. Last summer I snagged a genuine leather jacket for 10 dollars. The zipper was broken so i had it fixed for another 10. The hardly worn $150 jacket cost me 20 bucks.
D. Sell clothing you don't wear. Online companies Like Poshmark, and Threadup will pay you for certain items of clothing . Poshmark you sell the clothes yourself, while at Threadup you mail them in. (more on that if you are interested in another blog) You won't get rich, but you will clean out your closet and make some lunch money.
E. These retailers also let you buy online. I have bought most of my work clothing online, and nobody can tell the difference. That 40 dollar blouse is now 15 dollars. Not only does it help me,but the environment as well. This does require knowing your measurements,which most people should probably know anyway Or you can Google the retailer's size chart. Also research how to make sales on these sites.
F. Comparison shop online. Yes I'm that girl in the middle of the aisle, comparison shopping online. Most of the time I'll try to do that before I get into the store, but hey, sometimes you have to do what you have to do. I also am not afraid to walk out if I know I can get it cheaper elsewhere, or see if they price match. I used to be terrified of asking, but I'm a little better at it now. The worst I ever get is "no".
G. For the ladies* Do NOT bother buying skyscraper heels. Not only will they kill your feet, but you'll never wear them because of it. Its a waste. I used to haunt the ShoeDazzle site, until I realized I couldn't wear any of them for more then 3 hours. Forget for 8 hours or more. Even sitting at your desk is painful. I sold them, and got heels that were no more then 3 inches. I love the Dr Schols and other comfort brands. They are now making them to look just as nice as their painful twins.

1. I use Christmas/outdoor lighting to light my apartment.
   

My apartment is 700 square, ft and every last thing in it runs on electric. So keeping my bill down is important. Obviously this may not work if you live in a bigger home. But most nights I use timers or switches and light my apartment that way. String lights can also be found at craft stores like Michaels and AC Moore. If I need to turn on overhead lights I certainly do so, but if I'm not doing anything in particular (watching tv, reading ect) I'll use those lights. They are pretty bright, but also add a nice ambiance to the place. Believe it or not this actually saves me a decent amount on my electric bill, as well as being nice looking.

These are my three starters, but I have so many more. Have you tried any of these ideas? Let me know.