There’s no question about it- living in New York City certainly has it’s perks. From fashion, to culture, to celebrity sightings- there’s never a dull moment. Unfortunately, there’s rarely an inexpensive moment either. The model New Yorker’s sky-high apartment costs, pricey cocktails, and desire for keeping up with the latest fashions are certainly capable of depleting any bank account.
To help save costs and still stay trendy, fun, and fabulous, try some of these money-saving tips. Perhaps you’ll have enough money saved by summer to finally afford that Hamptons beach rental you’ve been eyeing.
Fashion
To keep up with the latest trends and fashions, avoid the conventional department stores and major retail chains. No matter how many coupons you’ve clipped for Macy’s, chances are you’ll be able to find a much more reasonable pair of black stilettos at your local consignment shop. The city offers a number of eclectic consignment boutiques that cater to nearly every fashion. As an added bonus, most consignment shops are willing to sell your new or gently worn clothes for cash or store credit. There’s no need to wait until spring for the customary closet clean-out session.
Favorite consignment shops in the city include: Beacon’s Closet in Williamsburg and Cadillac’s Castle in the East Village
Fashion 101
Tired of spending money on clothes that never fit properly? Why not learn to design and tailor your own clothes from some of the most gifted fashion artists in the city? Check out your nearest sewing shop and find out what classes are offered. Oftentimes, shops will offer free courses for beginner sewers. Once you’re comfortable in front of the sewing machine, you’ll be inspired to sign up for advanced-level fashion courses. Remember, just like any new skill, practice makes perfect! Even Ralph Lauren had to start somewhere…
Culture
Museums
Appreciation for art and culture portrays a level of sophistication often associated with New York City socialites, but can also be attained on a small budget. Some museums in the city are free every day or offer only a suggested donation, while others offer discounted admission prices on specific days of the week. If you’re interested in heading to a particular establishment, check out their museum website for admission prices and discounted entrance schedules. One favorite choice among New York City museums: The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens; every Tuesday and from 10-12pm on Saturday, admission is free. Another popular museum choice for New Yorkers is the Museum of Modern Art. Target sponsors free Friday night admission from 4:00 to 8:00.
Shows and Celebrity Sightings
If celebrity performances are more appealing than museums, but Broadway tickets are too costly for your budget, think about signing up for a live TV show taping. From Saturday Night Live to Dr. Oz to Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, you’re likely to find at least one show that peaks your interest.
Food and Drink
Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas
Most New Yorkers are well aware of the most reasonable after-work happy hours in their area. Finding weekday deals are usually simple, but few can afford the luxury of full-price weekend cocktails. To save money on food and drinks, try out a weekend brunch that offers food and beverages at a fixed price. Visit www.mimosamaven.com or www.iheartbrunch.com for brunch suggestions and reviews.
Bring Your Own Margaritas
Another way to save money on pricey dinner drinks is to find an establishment that is BYOB. For a small corking fee, these BYOB restaurants allow you to bring you favorite beer or wine to enjoy with your dinner. Across the Hudson River in Hoboken, you can bring your favorite wine to Zafras and enjoy a pitcher of homemade Sangria for a fraction of the standard cost.
Fitness and Beauty
Getting Fit
Gym membership in New York City is often over-priced and finding space to try P90X in your tiny apartment is likely to annoy your roommates. If you’re looking for fitness classes, sign up for emails from Groupon and Living Social. Both sites often have discounted promotional prices for conditioning classes, including pilates, yoga, and Zumba. You can also consider researching the local Shape Up NYC class in your area. Shape Up is a free program that offers fitness classes taught by expert instructors throughout the five boroughs.
Getting Pretty
For some, paying for a hair cut in New York City means living on ramen noodles until your next paycheck. If you’re not too attached to your current salon, consider signing up as a hair model for some of the best beauty schools in the city. At the Aveda Institute, a student stylist will provide you with any treatment, color, cut, and style you desire while under supervision of a stylist instructor. Keep in mind that students will often take a little longer to provide hair care, but the prices will be worth it. For only $20, you can receive a cut and simple style at the salon.
