Window shopping is defined as browsing products just for fun, or with the intent to buy them at some later date.  For me it is often therapeutic. I adore window shopping. It is a stress buster and a terrific way to spend time with a good friend.  I also like to look at things in stores and look at the window dressing – they give me ideas to make the best use of what I have. It also helps me find the best deals around.

Window shopping is time well spent

One of the things I enjoy most as a way to spend my leisure time is a good, long mall crawl. I call up a good friend who is similarly inclined, we make a date and we push off. We look at the latest trends, admire some of the really good window displays, laugh at some of the more outlandish stuff, and generally have a good time. This is a goodish workout even though we don’t realize it. We then head over to the food court for a well earned latte or a snack.

It is fruitful browsing

In the home section I get some great décor ideas. This inspires me to make little changes at home such as better color coordination, improved furniture arrangement, better space utilization and so on.  It also gives me similar ideas for better utilization of my wardrobe – the latest trends, interesting items to team together, ideas for layering, creating interesting sartorial contrasts and so on.

Helps compare prices

I am never one to buy anything without finding a good deal and window shopping gives me the opportunity to find the best deals around. I look at different shops to see which one offers me the best discount, the best freebies and the best services. I also wait and watch patiently for the expensive items to go on sale. This satisfies my thrifty little soul that I managed to get the best deal possible.

How to get the best out of your window-shopping

Take out the time and tell yourself this is quality time; for you to spend with yourself or a good friend. Go when you’re relaxed, well rested and not pressed for time. Wear shoes that are comfortable and easy to walk around in and clothes that are easy to get in and out of (window shopping includes trying out clothes and shoes too). If possible, go window shopping when it’s less likely to be crowded at the stores – you don’t want to battle the hordes. Take breaks when you want; and remember to enjoy yourself!

What are food steamers?

A food steamer is an implement that cooks food by heating water and creating steam. This is a method of cooking widely used in Asian cuisines and has been used for millennia. Steaming food means that you’re using heated vapor or steam to cook it, instead of using oil, butter or fat. The other major benefit of steaming is that the nutrients in the food are retained; unlike when you boil food (boiling means that you have to strain the food and most of the nutrients are then lost).

The foods that are best for steaming are vegetables and lean proteins such as chicken, fish and so on. Steaming is very useful if you’re on special diet such as the Macrobiotic Diet, the Calorie Restriction with Optimal Nutrition (CRON) diet, Cuisine minceur (the slimming cooking style of cooking by French chef Michel Guérard), and the Okinawa Diet etc.

How to buy a food steamer

First decide whether you want a standalone steamer, a stove top one or a microwave steamer. A stove top one can be made from stainless steel, or bamboo (dimsum anyone?). You can even use a pressure cooker to steam-cook food. Standalone steamers typically have more than one segment for cooking several different items at the same time. Some electric rice cookers can also be used as a streamer. Here are some economical options:

This mini microwave steamer is useful for a single serving since it has only one steam tray. At just $8.55 it is a good deal too.

This 10 inch bamboo steamer is designed to go into a stock pot or a wok. It is ideal for dimsum and costs about $15. This is the traditional type of steamer that is still widely used in Asian cooking.

This rice cooker and food steamer cooks and keeps food warm for hours too. It has a non stick inner cooking pot and is available for just about $20.

This is a two tier food steamer that switches to warming mode when it finishes cooking. You can even boil eggs in here. It is currently available at a discount at about $30.

What’s the catch?

The most typical reward a bank will offer for opening a new account is money, and usually around $100 to $200. The extra money can be great if you’re looking to open a new bank account anyway, but it’s not a smart move to just open an account to get some free cash. Every bank promotion will come with requirements that you have to meet in order to get your reward. If you find one that doesn’t, you’re extremely lucky. The bank may require you to have a minimum balance. Some minimum balances can be fairly high, and if you fall below it even for one day, you may be charged a fee for the whole month. Other requirements could include making a certain number of ATM withdrawals a month, or signing up for direct deposit. If you don’t meet these requirements, your free prize will vanish, and you may be stuck in a bank agreement that is more harmful than helpful.

Another thing to remember in your quest for the perfect bank and reward is that the money you receive will be counted towards your taxable income. Considering all the hoops you may have to jump through to get $100 it also may not be worth it if that becomes $75 after taxes.

Can anyone take advantage?

These rewards will typically only be available to new customers. So simply opening a new checking account at your existing bank won’t do the trick. Chasing rewards isn’t recommended, but if you’re looking for a new bank for whatever reason, shopping for a reward to go along with it, could be a great bonus. Thanks to the Internet finding these deals isn’t that hard either.

It’s important to be aware of the fact that some banks could charge a fee for early closure of a new account. Fees of up to $25 can apply for deciding to cut and run within the first year, so don’t think you’re home free as soon as you receive your prize.

Where can I find a bank deal?

Both banks and credit unions often use bonuses or promotions to help market themselves to new customers or members. From the smallest credit union to the biggest bank to an online bank, you’re likely to find some sort of deal if you search hard enough.

One great example of a bank incentive is a CollegeSaver Savings Account from Citizens Bank. Although it’s a savings account it’s worth mentioning because of its great incentives and minimal strings attached. If you’re a parent with a young child, it could be a great way to start a college fund. You get the best deal if the child is under six, but in order to qualify your child must be under 12. On their 18^th birthday the bank will gift the account with $1,000 and interest will start kicking in. The only requirement is a monthly deposit of at least $25, and you can miss one deposit per year. This is a great bank incentive because it is encouraging you to save for the future and rewarding you once that goal is met. If you only paid the minimum your child would have close to $5,000 for their 18^th birthday. Furthermore, the money doesn’t have to be used for education, and could simply be an awesome birthday present.

Whether you’re looking for a bank closer to home, or one with better rates and services, shopping for bonus incentives at banks is a great way to get the most for the money you’re putting in. Just don’t let it be the only reason you choose to open an account.

John Gower is a writer for NerdWallet, a personal finance website helping consumers find the best bank deals.

Discount women’s dress shoes, is a great place to head for a wide variety of cheap shoes – they have high heeled shoes, low heeled ones, sandals, peep toes, stilettos and more… they even have those impossible looking heelless shoes. Now these simple suede Mary Jane button shoes in black have a comfortable chunky heel and no skid rubber sole and should be appropriate for any work place.  They could retail for much higher, but here they offer the shoes for just $8.99.  

These White Zebra Animal Print Slip On Flower Rosette Women High Heels are another pair that caught my eye, simply because they cost just $6! At that price I find the pair quite irresistible.

I looked at the clearance section at Miss High Heels, another site dedicated to high heeled shoes and I found these 4 inch heels with an open toe and lace up strings that I loved – they would look so very pretty on a pair of feet fresh from a pedicure because they show so much of the foot and the ankle. Very summery, very minimalist!

Go Jane is a shoe website that sells some really zany and eye catching stuff including some of those sky high platforms, the embellished shoe as well as those hollow soled shoes and those funky ones with the spikes. These bow accented platform heels will help add a cool six inches to your height. I also liked the colorful reptile finish platform shoes at $30, but I hesitate to buy them, wondering where I would wear them!

I found these colorful shoes on snaz75 – the 5 inch spike closed toed shoes are available in white, black, red and yellow patent leather. They are available at a 40% discount and are currently up for sale at $20 only.

I confess I salivate to look at these roman style sandals in bright red. What is also wonderful is that they are available at the wholesale price of just $14.64! After I place my orders for the shoes, I’m going to get that pedicure.

As always I have to look for discounts regardless of what I plan to buy so here’s what I found out about artificial plants being sold at a discount:

A real bonsai is something that I would probably kill just by looking at it so this pretty cherry blossom bonsai is probably the best deal for me. Made from polyester, plastic and iron wire, this plant is about 10 inches in height, and comes with its own pot. Ideal for one corner of my home office: adds just the right touch of homey prettiness. Overstock offers daily discounts, so check to get the best deal. 

Amazon also stocks a variety of artificial plants that look great and are practically maintenance free. This 6 foot tall Nearly Natural 6′ Palace Style Ficus Silk Tree appealed to me for several reasons. It is tall, which makes it ideal for my verandah where I have my morning coffee. Plus it’s at a 73% discount, down from $251 to $67.

This Nearly Natural 6608 Bougainvillea Hanging Basket Decorative Silk Plant, Beauty is not at a huge discount, but I am a real sucker for hanging flower baskets. They just look so pretty!

Orchids are something else that I am a complete sucker for… they’re just such gorgeous flowers! These Artificial 17″ Mini Phalaenopsis Orchids are at a 50% discount down from $ 30 to $14.99. This is just the sort of thing I need on my desk to inspire me to write each morning!

I also found artificial plants at wholesale prices here. They have many varieties of potted palms for the indoors and outdoors, bamboo plants, and various flowering bushes that do the job of a potted plant as well as a bouquet of flowers in a vase. I loved their set of 8 pots of English roses in assorted colors. They are silk in an artificial planter. They offer various closeout deals that you can check out.

1. Drive there. If your holiday destination isn’t that far, drive to it. Not only will you enjoy the drive, you can stop where and when you want and enjoy great flexibility. When you arrive at your destination, you don’t need to hire a cab or bother about hotel transfers. Grab a map or your GPS and you’re ready to roll! 
2. Pick the off season. You can get massive discounts on hotels if you decide to go in the off season. This has an added advantage: there are fewer tourists around so there is more peace and quiet; you may also get better bargains while shopping.
3. Pick destinations off the beaten path. Popular destinations are all very well, but they are also the more expensive and crowded ones. Avoid the large cities; pick charming and quiet hamlets instead. For instance, rather than Switzerland, visit the less fashionable parts of Europe – they are as beautiful, as steeped in history but a lot cheaper. Plus you get a real sense of the place, not just the tourist experience.
4. Pick a no frills hotel: If you want to really explore a new place and find that you will be spending little time in the hotel, pick a no frills budget hotel.
5. Consider an apartment. Being so much cheaper than a hotel, you can have a longer holiday for the same price when you book an apartment. They can be very functional and if equipped with a kitchen or pantry you can make some of your own meals and save even more.
6. Eat where the locals do. This way you avoid paying touristy prices and also get to sample the local cuisine. There is really no point in visiting an exotic locale and eating a Big Mac now is there?
7. Take advantage of “breakfast included”. These days, hotels include breakfast in the tariff almost by default. These are usually buffet settings. So eat well at breakfast so you have plenty of energy for the day ahead. This way you may be able to skip lunch or may need just a light lunch.
8. Pick the cheap flights. Shop around on the internet to get the best deals. Also book in advance to get the best airline deals. And if don’t mind traveling at odd hours, pick those late night or early morning flights to save significant amounts. Flights with stopovers may also be cheaper.

I did some more digging. www.motekdiamonds.com has been nominated for the best rings in Dallas city by its resident voters. They also sell on yelp.com at great prices. People have really great things to say about them. Their prices for one are unbeatable. Buying diamonds directly from the manufacturer saves you a lot in terms of cost. This is when I realized why buying from Tiffanys and Cartier is so pricey. They can make any customized jewelry if you have something particular in mind. The staff is very helpful. Also, www.motekdiamonds.com is in this business since 60 years and has created a great name for itself since. Reading all the positive reviews – and there were so many, we were blown away – we were both convinced we were in good hands with them for the wedding rings and other jewelry. In fact, we were almost ready to call on Rick and Oded from the company.

Next was the wedding dress and a whole lot of shopping for a whole new life. It was going to involve hours of sitting at my laptop with her, as well as a lot of store scouting. But I was ready! After all, nothing excites me more than shopping! Even if it isn’t for myself  :)

The question of the day, however, is purchasing online always the best deal? The answer is yes and no.

Online Prices Vs. Retail

The truth is, there are two lines of thinking for Internet based businesses. The first is that convenience equals higher prices. These marketers are betting that convenience outweighs saving a few dollars by going to the store. For instance, most major office supply stores charge higher prices online than they do in-store. It is their belief that a majority of their clients are office workers, therefore the convenience of not having to leave work justifies the higher prices.

The second line of thinking is that Internet sales are more cost-effective for the business, so prices can be lowered. A good example of this type of marketing would be a major book retailer. Most of their books are discounted 10-25 percent online, even new releases. These same books in the store are offered at full retail. Their line of thinking is that they must pay for sales help in the store so they cannot offer discounts.

Do Not Forget About Shipping Costs

You may find an incredible price online for an item that makes it hard to resist. However, once you add in the cost of shipping, especially if it is coming from across the country, your item may cost more than if you purchased it locally.

Always look at shipping prices before you commit to purchase. Many coupon codes are available for free or discounted shipping, so you may wish to perform a search for this information before you buy.

Author biography:

Madyson Grant is a professional writer with 10+ years experience. She enjoys hiking, reading and spending time with her family. Also, check out coupons and deals and Best Buy coupon codes.

1. Don’t shop hungry. There is research to show that we are more likely to reach for the sugary high carb foods when we’re feeling hungry. If you’re not hungry when you go grocery shopping, you are more likely to reach for the healthier foods.
2. Carry a list. Ideally plan your meals in advance and make out a list based on what ingredients you will need. If you have a list of what you need, you are less likely to waste time and money.
3. Buy at the farmer’s market. I have spoken before about why farmers markets are such a good idea. They help support local communities and make fresh, seasonal produce available to the consumer. 
4. Go for variety. Step outside your comfort zone and try out fruit, veggies and whole grains that you haven’t tried before. Get your nutrition from a variety of sources and who knows; you may come to love those hitherto unfamiliar foods.
5. Buy seasonal. If you buy as per the season you will eat stuff that hasn’t been artificially ripened or been transported over longer distances. So buying seasonal produce is healthy and pocket friendly too.
6. Pick healthy cuts of meat. Avoid the sausages, the salami and the pepperoni. Rather, buy lean cuts of meat without the nitrates and preservatives.
7. Less processed the better. This is a rule of thumb to follow while buying all food – the less processed your groceries are the better it is. Look for whole grains and foods and leave out the refined stuff.  
8. Don’t get fooled by “natural” or “healthy” tags. Just because it says “healthy” or “natural” on the label don’t believe them. These are just marketing gimmicks and hooks.
9. Avoid stuff with unpronounceable ingredients: Be a smart shopper by reading labels carefully. If there are too many ingredients including some unpronounceable ones, don’t buy it. More ingredients mean more additives such as preservatives, artificial colors and flavors.
10. Fresher is better. Another rule of thumb to follow is to buy as fresh as possible. To the extent possible, avoid the cans, ready meals, and packaged foods. Salts, sugars and other additives go in and at least some of the nutrition goes out.

While the artsy end of the fashion spectrum might not appeal to those shopping for an everyday look, the designers behind these clothes are in high demand, with even casual shoppers yearning for the top brands.

Unfortunately, most designer clothing comes with price tags out of reach for the common shopper. For the industrious bargain hunter willing to put in just a little more effort, however, there are ways to either make it or fake it to score the name brand look.

Faking It

One of the cheapest solutions, buying high fashion knockoffs, is especially useful for those who want high end handbags. Faux Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton purses can be found in novelty stores as well as online.

Websites like Top-Knockoff-Handbags.com specialize in giving the designer look at a fraction of the price, offering faux Louis Vitton bags for about a tenth of the price of the real thing, which run in the $1,000 to $3,000 range. Even Amazon has a selection of fake designer items, from Guess bags to wannabe Ray-Bans.

Getting the Real Deal

Cost effective as they are, knockoffs simply are not for everyone. If nothing but the real thing will do, a little extra scouting can help make those must-have Jimmy Choos a little more affordable.

One of the best places to start the quest for discounted brand names is the nearest outlet mall. Usually located in suburbs, outlet centers are clusters of brand name wholesale stores selling goods often not sent to the brands’ retail outfits.

High-end designer stores like DKNY, Gucci, Juicy Couture and Burberry can be found in most outlet malls, each offering steep discounts off their standard prices. These stores also have occasional promotional sales, giving shoppers an even bigger break.

As a bonus, these stores are often located in walkable strip malls, making it easy to check more boxes off your couture wish list in one trip.

If reaching an outlet store proves too much of a trek, try heading to the nearest factory-direct department store. Chains like Ross, Marshalls and T.J. Maxx have built reputations for carrying tons of name brand clothes, shoes and accessories for much less than higher end stores.

Finding the exact item you are looking for at these stores can be a challenge, and there are no guarantees of availability, but for those willing to scavenge a bit the rewards far outweigh the effort.

If leaving the house to find a bargain isn’t your thing, the internet holds deals for more than just knockoff designer looks.

Sites like Overstock.com are a great starting point to find goods from top designers like Givenchy, Fendi and Yves Saint Laurent. Overstock carries heavily discounted designer handbags, wallets, clutches and sunglasses. Search the site by brand or by checking out the “Designer store” section.

BlueFly.com and the TheOutnet.com are two more online outlet stores that list deals on designer brands that can reach up to half off retail prices.

DesignerApparel.com is another resource for sales on name brands. Shoppers can sign up for a free membership to the site to gain access to exclusive daily sale offers on various designer duds, from jeans to ball gowns to shoes.

Secondhand Couture

While the internet has opened up a plethora of options for finding cheaper designer items, there is no better deal than buying designer labels secondhand.

Scouring your local Goodwill or Salvation Army stores is a great way to find rare gems, though it can be time consuming. Many secondhand shops specialize in offering just designer items, making the process of finding the brands you want much easier.

Goodwill has “Boutique” stores, which receive higher end clothing donations, in many cities. Items at these stores are usually pricier than fare found at other Goodwill shops, but are tremendously discounted below the retail prices. Often, brand new clothing can be found at these boutiques with the original price tags still attached.

Consignment stores are another option for purchasing high end secondhand clothes that are in generally near-new condition.

Going the online route, Amazon has an ever-changing selection of used items that go for way below the price of their newer counterparts. But perhaps the greatest weapon a designer dealmaker has is eBay, where shoppers can not only bid on fiercely discounted items, but can also resell clothes once they are done with them.

One of the perks of springing for genuine designer clothes is that their resale value tends to remain high. Where there is not much money to be gained in reselling knockoff pieces, true name brand items can fetch much closer to their original values, either online or in consignment shops.

For those who like to change up their wardrobes often, buying used and reselling is a smart way to stay ever stylish without going broke.

Author info:

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet. Her mission is to help consumers stay fashionable and earn money while shopping with NerdWallet’s cash rewards credit cards.