MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

7 Ways to Save Money When Shopping for Designer Goods

I love shopping, and I can even relate to the movie Confessions of a Shopaholic, despite having no credit card debt like Rebecca Bloomwood. I also remember watching The Devil Wears Prada and being in awe of the designer items showcased.

Many of us feel pressured to drastically cut our spending to be considered “good with money”. Most financial advice doesn’t consider the spending habits of those who occasionally splurge on designer items. On that note, here are some tips to save money while still indulging in designer shopping.

#1: CHECK YOUR MAILING LIST

Avoid buying items at full price. When you purchase designer items, you’ll typically receive emails about upcoming sales and promotions. Make sure you’re subscribed to these mailing lists to stay informed about discounts.

#2: WAIT FOR SALES

If you love something but it’s out of your budget, be patient. Most items eventually go on sale, usually a few weeks to a few months after their release. This waiting period can save you money, and you might even find a similar item at a lower price or lose interest in the original piece altogether.

#3: INVEST IN TIMELESS PIECES

While I often buy affordable tops in Uniqlo, I also invest in quality designer staples like classic plain tees and silk scarves. Spending more on high-quality basics can save money in the long run, as they withstand wear better than cheaper alternatives.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: SHOP AT THRIFT STORES

Thrifting has become increasingly popular, and it’s a great way to save money. Fashion trends are cyclical, and designer thrift stores such as Refash or Dustbunny Vintage offer trendy items at a fraction of the price. Plus, it’s a sustainable shopping option.

#5: SELL YOUR CLOTHES

Declutter your wardrobe and sell clothes you no longer wear on platforms like Carousell. This not only gives you extra cash for new luxury clothes but also helps keep your wardrobe organized. Even if you don’t make much, it’s better than letting old clothes gather dust.

#6: BUY OUT OF SEASON

Purchasing clothes out of season can lead to significant savings. By shopping for winter clothes in the summer or summer clothes in the winter, you can often find great deals on high-quality items.

#7: DO YOUR RESEARCH

Before buying a luxury item, compare prices online across different regions. Sometimes, you can save money by purchasing in countries like Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Thailand. Do your homework to find the best deal.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By following these tips, you can enjoy designer shopping without breaking the bank. Happy shopping!

Sephora is running a ‘suncare week’ till 2 June 2024 and here are our favorite suncare products at 10% off

Sephora has launched a ‘suncare week’, running through to 2 June.

It’s THE time to stock up on your sun protection essentials, as Sephora is offering a 10% discount on its selection of suncare products.

We’ve sifted through the (online) shelves to bring you our top picks.

EVERYDAY HUMANS Oh My Bod! SPF50 Body Sunscreen

Promo Price: $27

First up, we have Everyday Humans’ Oh My Bod! SPF50 Body Sunscreen, a skin-nourishing shield for your outdoor adventures.

This lightweight, invisible lotion defends against UVA/UVB rays with a sweat- and water-resistant formula that lasts up to 80 minutes.

It contains skin-loving ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Green Tea which calms, detoxifies, and moisturizes, making it ideal for even after-sun recovery.

Ditch the greasy sunscreens and switch to this travel-friendly, plant-powered formula that protects your skin without the white cast or goopy feel.

SUPERGOOP! PLAY Everyday Lotion With Sunflower Extract Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++

Promo Price: $34.20

Or upgrade to SUPERGOOP! PLAY Everyday Lotion for its fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula that packs broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection to shield your skin from UVA, UVB, and IRA rays.

Benefit from natural extracts like citrus, basil, and bois de rose, leaving behind a fresh, floral scent instead of that typical sunscreen smell.

The moisturizing blend defends against photoaging and dehydration, so you can soak up the sun worry-free.

Applicable for the face and body, this sunscreen is water and sweat-resistant for active lifestyles.

SHISEIDO Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ PA++++

Promo Price: $36

Protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays with the SHISEIDO Clear Suncare Stick SPF 50+ PA++++.

This clear, lightweight stick glides on, leaving no white cast.

Powered by breakthrough SynchroShield™ Technology, the formula boosts its UV protective veil when exposed to water, sweat, or heat, ensuring you stay shielded.

Plus, it’s infused with Botanical Profense CL, a botanical complex that helps prevent damage linked to wrinkles and dark spots.

With its invisible, comfortable wear, this mineral oil-enriched stick is a must-have for your daily skincare routine, keeping your complexion smooth even in the face of environmental aggressors.

FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer With Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Promo Price: $45.90

Last but not least, why not simplify your morning routine with this must-have moisturizer from First Aid Beauty?

Delivering all-day hydration and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection in a single step, this formula features organic and mineral UVA/UVB filters to safeguard your skin from harmful rays.

Made with Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract and Licorice Root Extract, it leaves your complexion supple, nourished, and ready to face the day, no matter your skin type (even if it’s sensitive).

This clean, vegan, and cruelty-free moisturizer is also gluten-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, nut-free, soy-free, and nano-free (wow!), with recyclable packaging.

Don’t underestimate the importance of daily sun protection as part of your beauty ritual. As ‘Suncare Week’ begins, remember that the chance to upgrade your skincare regime at a 10% discount only lasts until Sunday, 2 June. Soak up the savings while you can!

4 kid-friendly shows/events under $44 to bring your child to for the upcoming June holidays

As the June holidays begin, the quest to keep the little ones entertained becomes urgent.

If you’re on the hunt for fun-filled activities, we have compiled a list of kid-friendly shows/events, all under $44, for your consideration.

Red Dot’s Rovin’ Ride through the Four Seasons

Price: from $22

When: Sat, 22 Jun 2024 & Sun, 23 Jun 2024

First up, you may want to join Red Dot’s Rovin’ Ride through Vivaldi’s Four Seasons for a musical adventure!

This interactive theatrical production brings the masterworks to life, with the musicians themselves stepping into the role of storytellers.

From a barking dog to a partying villager, characters, and scenes spring to life, bringing you through the changing seasons.

Designed for families and young maestros, this performance by the Red Dot Baroque ensemble promises to delight audiences of all ages.

[Editor’s note: Infants and children aged below 4 years old are not allowed to enter.]

ROAR! Dinosaur Adventure Park 2.0

Price: from $31

When: now till Sun, 30 Jun 2024

Or enter prehistoric paradise at ROAR! Dinosaur Adventure Park 2.0, where life-size dinos roam the land.

Hop in an adventure car and explore the Jurassic forest or get hands-on as a paleontologist and dig for fossils.

Brave the dino-themed inflatables, take a spin on the dinosaur ride, and test your child’s aim at the VR shooting game.

Don’t forget to collect all 9 stamps for a bring-home souvenir!

With weekday tickets just $31, it’s an adventure the whole family will love.

Just remember, little ones 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Bluey’s Big Play

Price: from $38

When: Thu, 13 June – Sun, 23 June 2024

Bluey’s Big Play brings a pup’s adventures to life in an all-new theatrical experience.

Join the Heeler family through crafted puppets and an original story by the series creator.

This live show lets your child see Bluey like never before.

Whether your child’s a longtime fan or discovering the series for the first time, Bluey’s Big Play is a can’t-miss event.

Maybank cardholders and StarHub subscribers can enjoy 10% off (T&Cs apply), and VIP box seats with a special meet-and-greet are available if you have the budget to spare.

The Gruffalo

Price: from $42

When: Fri, 14 Jun 2024 – Sun, 23 Jun 2024

Last but not least, join the fearless Mouse on a journey through the dark forest in this musical adaptation of the children’s book.

Filled with tunes, humor, and Gruffalo, this show is THE SHOW for kids aged 3 and up.

See for yourself how Mouse outwits the cunning Fox, eccentric Owl, and party-loving Snake, all while searching for hazelnuts.

With 15% off Thursday and Friday performances, it’s an opportunity to treat your little one to this much-loved production that has wowed audiences across Britain and the world.

As the June holidays approach, you want to grab those tickets ASAP. Whether your kids are tapping their feet along a musical adventure or screaming their lungs out at those real-life-looking dinosaurs, these experiences are sure to be the highlight of their June holidays—and yours, too

Perfume Addict’s Guide to Saving Money on Fragrance in Singapore

I’m enchanted by luxury perfumes, with Apogée by Louis Vuitton, Miss Dior by Christian Dior, and Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel being my go-to daily scents. However, indulging in the latest fragrances can be expensive. Thankfully, with some smart strategies, you can keep your collection fresh and varied without breaking the bank!

Here’s a comprehensive guide to saving money on perfumes in Singapore.

SHOP DURING SPECIAL EVENTS

Singapore is known for its grand sales events, such as the Great Singapore Sale, Black Friday, and mid-year sales. These are prime times to score discounts on high-end perfumes. Keep an eye on the dates and prepare your wishlist in advance. Many stores also offer significant discounts during festive seasons like Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Hari Raya.

USE ONLINE PLATFORMS

Online platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora often have competitive prices and frequent promotions. They also offer discount codes, flash sales, and bundle deals that can significantly reduce the cost of your favorite fragrances. Additionally, international websites like FragranceNet and Strawberrynet ship to Singapore and often feature lower prices compared to local retailers.

BUY DECANTS, SAMPLES, OR DUPES

Instead of splurging on full-sized bottles, consider purchasing decants or samples. These smaller quantities allow you to enjoy a variety of scents without committing to the high cost of a full bottle. You can also find local sellers on Carousell who offer authentic decants and samples.

I recently came across Zara dupes for expensive perfumes, including Zara Sublime Epoque for Armani My Way, Zara Red Temptation for Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540, and Zara Nude Bouquet for Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet. Moreover, you can check out Bath and Body Works’ Oh, Cherry Fine Fragrance Mist, a dupe for Tom Ford’s Lost Cherry, and Petal Parade Fine Fragrance Mist, a dupe for Carolina Herrera’s Good Girl.

EXPLORE DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

If you’re traveling, Changi Airport’s duty-free shops are a treasure trove for fragrance lovers. You can find exclusive deals on a wide range of perfumes, often at lower prices than in regular stores. Remember to check if there are any additional discounts for travelers or special offers available. I remember buying my husband a Coach perfume at the airport that was much cheaper than at Sephora!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

JOIN LOYALTY PROGRAMS

Many perfume retailers have loyalty programs that reward you with points for every purchase, which can later be redeemed for discounts or free products. Joining mailing lists can also be beneficial, as subscribers often receive exclusive offers, early access to sales, and special discounts.

VISIT DISCOUNT STORES

Discount stores and outlets, such as Mustafa Centre, often stock a wide range of perfumes at lower prices. While the selection might not include the latest releases, you can still find many popular and classic scents at a fraction of the cost. Usually, discount stores provide small testers that you can take home.

OPT FOR SECOND-HAND

Purchasing pre-loved perfumes can be a great way to save money. Platforms like Carousell allow individuals to sell their lightly used fragrances at reduced prices. Ensure the seller has good reviews and the perfume is well-maintained. This option is particularly useful if you’re looking to try a scent without the full retail price commitment.

ATTEND FRAGRANCE WORKSHOPS

Sometimes, fragrance brands and retailers host workshops and events where participants can create their own perfumes or receive samples. These events can be a fun way to discover new scents and often come with complimentary goodies or discounts on purchases made during the event.

SWAP YOUR FRAGRANCES

Joining online communities and forums dedicated to fragrance enthusiasts can open up opportunities for swapping perfumes. Platforms like Reddit’s r/fragrance and various Facebook groups allow you to exchange scents with others, providing a cost-effective way to explore new fragrances.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By leveraging these tips, you can enjoy a diverse and luxurious perfume collection without overspending. Happy scent hunting!

Latest WFH internships posted from 20 to 23 May 2024

Looking for opportunities in investor relations, software engineering, and more?

We’ve got the latest WFH internship openings just for you this week.

Take a look!

#1: Gem Comm Pte Ltd – Investor Relations Intern

Website: gem-comm.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 2,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Not specified.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with the marketing and creative teams to understand project requirements and objectives.
Research and explore AI-driven tools and technologies for social media asset creation.
Responsible for the analysis of a list of stocks/companies (clients’) allocated by management;
Use all sources available to formulate a view of the stocks under your assigned coverage. This would include resources within the company as well as other industry sources such as peers and customers, and external sources such as sell-side brokers and third-party research providers;
Publish regular (quarterly) reports on assigned companies;
Communicate your views to sell-side analysts and investors via written reports, voice mails, emails, and face-to-face meetings;
Host company meetings on companies on your list when appropriate;
Provide an industry update annually on the industries under your assigned coverage;
Work with C-suite clients regularly;
To help perform a range of analyses that will include industrial analysis, competitive analysis, and comparative valuation;
To perform competitive and cross-divisional analysis of the industry peers and monitor the other public disclosures, like the various presentations made at the investor seminars, conferences, etc;
Responsible for monitoring the earnings seasons and for developing and preparing investors/analysts related press releases of quarterly earnings;
Assists in developing the Q and A’s for the investor community communicates the key internal developments that have occurred in the organization and provides valuable information regarding the company’s strategies, its operations, and overall financial performance;
Reporting to the Head of Research and CEO;
Include other ad-hoc duties such as coordination with vendors, and clients if the Company deems necessary.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your resume to cyndi@gem-comm.com.

#2: Changi Airport Group (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. – Business Data Analyst Intern

Website: changiairport.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Business Analytics, Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Business, Economics, or other relevant fields
Proficient in using Business Intelligent Tools (eg. Power BI, Tableau) and MS Office for data manipulation and analysis
Familiarity with SQL, and Python will be an advantage
Knowledge of data modeling, database technologies, and statistical concepts
Innovative approach and positive attitude in problem-solving
Analytical and detailed-oriented, comfortable working with large datasets
Good team player, ability to communicate and collaborate cross-functionally
Acumen/interest in consumerism trends and eCommerce developments

Key Responsibilities

REPORTING AND DASHBOARDING:

Support feature enhancements and optimization of dashboards to improve efficiency
Assist in dashboard refreshes and preparation of reports to monitor business performance and identify trends

AD-HOC ANALYSIS AND INSIGHTS GENERATION:

Perform ad-hoc data extraction and analysis to generate insights and uncover business opportunities
Apply innovation to maximize insights distilled from internal/external data that help with business strategy

DATA MANAGEMENT:

Support data cleaning and management efforts to improve data quality and usability
Support troubleshooting and maintenance of data pipelines and tools

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply for this position by emailing your text CV to sandra.weng@changiairport.com.

#3: HubbedIn – Software Engineering Intern (Frontend / Backend)

Website: hubbedin.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Experience working with React.JS / Node.JS
Strong, logical mind. If you love solving logical puzzles, this may be a good fit.
Communication – people who speak up and have their own thoughts
Ownership and pride – having pride and ownership in shipping out good code and good products

Key Responsibilities

Write clean, scalable code with an understanding of best practices in mind
Write secure, scalable, and optimized code
Understanding and implementing micro-frontend / backend structure
Solve technical challenges through discussions and research
Develop software in the AI tools space for career seekers
Understand business requirements and work closely with the Product and Tech team
Take ownership of your code, as poor-quality products shipped to market harm the company’s reputation
Fix bugs to ship out quality products

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Agnes via this link.

#4: Ruder Finn Asia Pte Ltd – Communications Intern

Website: ruderfinnasia.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

Degree and/or post-graduate degree in PR / Political Science / Media/Communication or equivalent;
Language skills: Fluency in English. Command of another language is considered a plus;
Knowledge and interest in Communications and Public Affairs is a must
Computer skills: MS Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel
Strong research and analytical skills
Excellent communication & writing skills
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and perform under tight deadlines

Key Responsibilities

Assist in writing and distributing pitch letters, news releases, backgrounders, fact sheets, bios, newsletters, reports, and other communications material.
Create and maintain media lists.
Handle routine media inquiries.
Monitor media to report coverage that affects the client’s business.
Develop relationships with the media to convey the client’s message
Proactively identify media opportunities.
Conduct research for existing clients and new business proposals.
Develop an understanding of the client’s business and handle basic research of the business and the industry to maintain a current knowledge base.
May coordinate specific events and promotions for the client under the guidance of a supervisor.
Assist in account administration duties such as billing and activity report

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and apply directly.

#5: Annabella Patisserie Trading Pte Ltd – Graphic Designer (For Disney Products)

Website: shop.abp.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Ability to create photos for all products
Photography skills to take product photos will be a plus (optional)
Videography skills to create short 15s-30s video ads will be a plus (optional)

Key Responsibilities

Photo editing skills using Canva
Graphic Vector design using Illustrator (good to have) Photoshop (good to have)
Making use of available resources from Freepik and Vecteezy (paid license) to re-create seasonable graphics

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Wei Wen via this link.

Editor’s note: These positions are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.