Latest posts by Kumiko Ehrmantraut (see all)
- 4 Smart Ways to Use Your Tax Refund - February 19, 2020
We all have a list of our favorite things. Whether it's the same jacket we wear every day or the rain boots we can't live without on rainy days, we all have favorites that we tend to gravitate towards. Sometimes, your favorite things are not the cheapest, and you can't always afford to replace them when they get worn out. Maybe you have heard great reviews from friends about a particular product, but it's a little out of your price range. I am going to give you the best, and most affordable alternatives to some of my favorite things. I have personally bought all of these items due to the great reviews I have received from friends and internet sources. There are alternatives to almost anything!
L.L. Bean Duck Boots
These boots are so popular, they are literally back ordered for almost 8 months. I purchased my duck boots in 2015 after readying hundreds of five-star reviews, and I love them. Not only is the quality amazing, but the fact that each pair of boots is handmade in Maine is absolutely amazing. They are comfortable, stylish, warm, and keep my feet dry on rainy days. So what's the alternative? L.L. Bean Duck boots are pricey, that's the downside. Spending $139 for boots that you can only wear during the winter, seems a little outrageous.
Affordable Alternative
After my purchase in 2015, I discovered the Lucky 21 Women's Two Tone Combat Rain Duck Boots. These only cost $29.99 on Amazon and offer more color combinations than the L.L. Bean boots. They have a similar look, offering the same great style but for way less. They are waterproof, and are great for rainy days.
Check out the affordable alternative HERE
The North Face Women's Venture Fast Pack Rain Jacket
This is my go-to rain jacket. It's great for warm Spring days, and transition seasonal weather. I love how light this jacket is, allowing me to stuff it my purse when I want to take it off. It has a technology called DryVent 2.5L, giving you greater waterproof protection, and greater durability. I bought this jacket in Fuschia Pink in the Spring of 2014. I wear it a lot when the seasons are changing in Washington. It's light enough to wear on cooler summer mornings without having to pack around a heavy coat, and it is the only jacket I wear for layering. You can buy this jacket from The North Face for $149.
Affordable Alternative
It was only a year later that I discovered the Paradox Waterproof & Breathable Women's Rain Jacket. This rain jacket is a little heavier, but still light enough to tuck away. It's waterproof, wind proof due to it's seam sealed technology, and very breathable. It is also great for layering and transition weather. This jacket has a similar technology called the 2.5-layer protectant. This adds a raised pattern in the jacket ensuring you stay warm and dry during wet days. The best thing about this jacket – it only costs $24.95!
Check out the affordable alternative HERE
Essie Nail Polish
Who doesn't like a good bottle of their favorite Essie Nail Polish. I have been a fingernail polish fanatic since I stopped getting my nails done at the salon, almost 5 years ago. This splurge was cut from our budget when my husband and I were trying to claw our way out of debt. After not going to the salon for a while, I realized I could just do it myself. The colors offered by Essie are very wearable, and definitely fit my personality. I love the almost milky look for my nail polishes, as I tend to shy away from bolder colors. I have owned Essie Nail Polishes for about 2 years and I have come to realize they really aren't worth the hype. They don't last long, are too expensive for the bottle size, and offer a limited color choice.
Affordable Alternative
I have found a nail polish that tops all nail polishes. I have used it religiously every single day for the last year. Not only does it last a full week and a half without chipping, but I have worn it close to TWO WEEKS without signs of chipping. The nail polish brand is Revlon and the nail polish is called Colorstay Gel Envy. When used with their Diamond Top Coat, it will most likely out-wear the current nail polish that you use. I swear by this stuff and I recommend it to anyone that will listen to me. I get comments all the time from people who ask ” Where did you get your nails done? Is that gel?” They are always surprised when I tell them how much the nail polish actually costs. You can currently buy this nail polish on Amazon for $4.50 a bottle!
Check out the affordable alternative HERE
What are some of your favorite things?