Every Little Helps

Okay, before I get into this, I’m not bitter and twisted. But I am skint. And this is another post on how to deal with not having any money.

Basically, I am on a savings binge, so am constantly looking for little pick-me-ups. And I think I may have found some that actually work.

I was in London just the other day, for a magazine event. I randomly bumped into a girl I know from Uni, and she pointed at my nails and said, “Oh my God! Love the polish! Chanel Jade?” A smug smile spread across my face, and I replied, “It’s not Chanel, its Barry M.”

Now for those who aren’t aware, ‘Jade’ is the sought after shade that featured in the Autumn/Winter 09 Chanel shows. It is a mint green with a gorgeous sheen, and it caused total hysteria. Only a limited amount of bottles were released, and was only available at Selfridges and Chanel boutiques.

I fell for this sales pitch hook , line and sinker, and had to be talked out of putting my name on the waiting list. I live nowhere near London, and would have to fork out £13 for the polish, as well as a ridiculous amount in train fairs, tube tickets and food. As well as my self respect. Thank God I listened to my mother.

I am not one to usually take a fake, I’d rather do without. But when it comes to nail varnish, it’s not a fake, just an alternative. So the search began.

After much google-ing and emailing I finally came across ‘mint green’ by Barry M. Although it doesn’t have the same sheen, it really is basically the same, and the best, and cheapest, alternative I could find.

So back to the event, the compliment I got really boosted my confidence, and I actually realised the power of a well-painted nail. One of the women I was there with was taking tickets, and someone actually commented on her lack of ‘effort’ at noticing her paint-free talons.

I was surprised at the disapproval, but it got me thinking, how important is it to paint your nails? And then I realised – really important!

Before each night out I take the time to paint my nails. And if I haven’t, I feel something is missing. I make sure to have a varied collection, and look forward to finishing work so I can paint them. What’s more, it can tie an outfit together.

So after a particular hard week (by my standards anyway), I was in need to cheering up. My first thought? A new nail colour! When my usual brand of choice is Chanel, I went with a fool-proof, money saving option. Barry M! I got myself straight to Boots, and picked myself an on-trend dull grey, and could feel my mood lifting with every stroke.

And it doesn’t stop there. A new lipstick, or a slick of lip balm instantly adds effort. Piling up the necklaces or adding a scarf does the same.

Whether you’re flushed with money or strapped for cash, this is a great way to add happiness whilst keeping the spending low. It’s all in the details.