Is frugal the new black?

Can't agree more about the Kroger and other "store" brand items. Lots of them taste the same if not better than the name brand stuff. We've been hitting the dollar stores too, mostly Dollar Tree...they've got this one cleaner called Awesome that I swear will get ANY stain out of clothes without damaging them. I'm not applauding the tanking economy but I probably wouldn't have discovered some of these things if I hadn't started shopping more frugal.

2006 was my turning point as well

probably due to rising fuel costs and price gauging immediately after Katrina was "the nail in coffin" especially when I realized Bush had no intention or concern for the survivors

Job wise, take it from a jumped-up old drafter; Hie thee off to community college and learn some of that new-fangled 3D design software, CATIA, INVENTOR, Solid Works ProEngineer. With a little experience, you'll be writing your own ticket. Speak German? they're screaming for people who know this stuff. Right now, I'm having lunch at my desk at one of the Boeing engineering buildings up in Everett WA. Just got off a teleconfrence with people in this building and down at the home office in California. Hell, the home office hired me sight unseen based on my resume. The person who was hired to run our part of the program was interviewed at SeaTac airport. He wanted me, and that was that. Now he's working for another company, and I'm tying up some of the last loose ends before I move on.

Nah - I work part time now to pay the bills and I volunteer at the hospital the rest of the time, because I like interacting with the patients. They can use a little reassurance most of the time. It's become a part of my life and I'm happy with my routine. Besides, I have a BS in science already from a University and it's a nice thing to have but practically speaking, I'm happier doing what I'm doing. Thanks for the suggestion.

Thank you, melissa-3702132 for bringing up the ludicrous segment from the Today Show! It angered me that this family was portrayed as the "every family" of today. One week on half as much money?! Try nine year of living frugally and being aware of absolutely all the financial comings and goings on a daily/weekly basis.

I think the media is completely out of touch with what "real" people are going through these days. We hear every day how everyone is feeling the pinch of higher gas prices. People's gas usage may not change, but someone making, say, $120,000 a year will NOT be affected as negatively as someone making perhaps $45,000 annually. Someone who merely needs to give up the weekly pedicure or daily Starbucks visits as compared to someone who needs to choose between gas and food for their family are NOT experiencing the same loss here.

This segment was ridiculous and way out of touch. Middle income families I know are not choosing to cut housekeepers and pedicures. They are trying to figure out how to pay for doctor bills, back to school supplies, groceries and gas. That family thought that week was sacrificing?!? One week?!? Families are doing this every day, month after month. Rarely do I get angry enough to comment in a discussion, but could not let this one go.

NBC, find a "real" family struggling with "real" financial difficulties in the "real" world and see if they can cut their budget by half. This story was a slap in the face to every hard working family in America who gave up Starbucks and pedicures a long time ago. Not to mention all the mothers who would give anything to stay home with their children......seriously, you don't have a job and have daycare for your children and a housekeeper?

Dear Melissa and CW,

Wasn't that Today show a hoot and a half? I have been a stay at home mom for 5 years now, and we have done okay. It is the little things, making your own coffee, brown bagging it - I make my husband his lunch everyday- and eating home every, EVERY night that makes us be able to stretch our dollars. I don't have a housekeeper (though I could use one) and I get a pedicure once a month for June, July and August (my treat to myself). That woman went EVERY week! When you keep living like that, that is the life you grow to expect. And what drove me nuts, did you see how young her kids were???? That is the best age! You can convince them that a slip and slide is Disney World! Have them play Twister under a sprinkler in the summer. Go to the library, etc.! I have a 14 and a 10 year old, it gets tougher to be more economical with older children. But I have explained to them that, this is a budget and we still can do fun things. Maybe we can't afford the Red Sox (who can?) but we can still go to minor league games with friends and have a lot of fun. That segment made me shake my head! I don't know how she did that. And did you see how she sat there on the couch afterwards with Meredith? She was a total idiot!

This segment was ridiculous and way out of touch. Middle income families I know are not choosing to cut housekeepers and pedicures.

Of course they're out of touch with "real" American's because their shows (for the advertisers) are geared towards the market segment that has disposable income, upper middle-class and up. It's the same way our local paper was able to produce a column with a straight face on how people were dealing with the economic downturn. They featured one couple who cut back on eating out and a few other things but were thankful they didn't have to let go of their NANNY, GARDENER and HOUSEKEEPER.

Come on people, they're showing you these types to grind your noses into the evidence that they are on top and you are swallowing the ****.

It works like this, they make you angry and frustrated because they know very well that the reaction afterwards will be feelings of helplessness and finally resignation. Standard Operating Proceedure, laid out in the manual written by Sargon and revised by Louie the sixteenth. You want something to change? VOTE LIKE IT!!!! and KEEP VOTING LIKE IT!!

By the way, take note of the medium that those helpful messages reached and demoralized you. KILL YOUR TV!! I've been living without one for twenty years, and it ain't hurt me one little bit!

I agree that people (myself included) have been living in a lala land filled with luxuries. It was only two years ago that I had weekly yoga, a massage once a month, pedicures once a month, a coffee once a day, meals out, foods purchased at health food stores, and a yearly trip to somewhere somewhat expensive. Now, it's a challenge to keep a one person membership to the Y, afford ground coffee to make at home, buy birthday presents, and clothes... we still splurged on vacation this year, but next year we will aim to spend 50% of what we did this year on vacation.

We've always had only one car and lived in a VERY modest house, so we can't really trim those expenses. Our furniture comes from IKEA. I know we can cut more, but I'm sort of hoping we don't have to cut too much more. But if we do, it will probably be better for the environment, better for our health, and cause us to spend more time together as a family.

I do remember those luxurious days fondly however... staying at Disney and the Nickelodeon Suites with the kids, traveling to Europe, I am SO GLAD we took the opportunities when we had them! At least we have the awesome memories and photos!

Gina, it is good you know that the Salvation Army and Goodwill are valuable shopping sites and thank you for sharing so now I know. As you have put "welcome to the real world", you made it sound as though bitterness was in that statement or maybe I took it wrong. But many have not ever shopped there and that is no reflection that they haven't been shopping or living just that some and I will say me, were never aware that these places offered items to anyone. My perception of them was that they provided the clothing and items that were donated to familes that were in need, not sold them to anyone.

Um--how about those of us who have been shopping at Salvation Army or Goodwill for years? Now it is "in?"

My wife has visited these locations for years, and has an assortment of clothing. (Me, too.)
It always worried me that I thought the purpose of these places were to sell 2nd hand clothes to lower income (and frugal) people and then use the money for charitable causes. I always felt guilty that I was taking something away from someone else, that needed it more. My wife always said, that is not the case

Now it concerns me that these places are "trendy." I can't help but believe that someone less fortunate is taking the hit.

Jim,
I did not take that comment that way at all. Welcome to the real world is a reflection (imho) on a society that has been living beyond our own means for 2 decades or more. I have read so many articles of recent that reflect on the 50% or more of our "its all about me" generation. Those who believe its ok to get it before they earn it. People that have been frugal all along are the ones who will "pay the price" for the trillion+ in consumer debt outstanding (and growing) when the crap hits the fan (as it has of recent). I don't revolve debt either but still pay the price for that mememe generation in the way of higher consumer prices and cost of credit.
SO: take it for what its worth; there is no "bitterness" of those people that are living within our means. I bet Gina has even managed to save some over the years and has actually "planned" for the future and are not waiting on the next generation to pick up the tab when the mememe generation finally hits bottom. The fact that you did not have a clue about the SA tells me you are one of those legends in your own mind people. Try living for the future; plan like you mean it: It's nice to have some fun; but not at the cost of your own (and others) future. //soapbox off:-)

No one shold feel guilty about saving money. The tragic part is that there are numerous places I am finding at this age of my life that are open to anyone and not just those that are less fortunate. I thought they gave the clothes to those less fortunate, now find out that anyone can shop there (thanks to Gina). There seems to be some here that are aware of these places but not everyone is. This isn't a single persons issue but one that the nation is facing. I am sorry you have the feeling of taking from someone else. I can understand your thought about it but now we all are faced with do everything we can to save our own dollars. I think you will find it harder to purchase items before long as less will be giving things to these organizations and keeping them longer on their own shelves.

Lynn I applaud you and everyone else that is trying to stretch their hard earned dollar. It is also rewarding to those that are able to put a few dollars back into savings. I am at fault for not knowing these programs, places are out there just because I haven't used them? I thought this was about helping one another. You can sit high on your soap box, I admitted to not knowing of these plces and you can be judgemental about me it is a open forum. We live within our means and are fortunate enough to be able to put away for savings there are some that don't have that luxury. Legends?

While I don't shop at the SA, I have had incredible luck at Goodwill and St.Vincent Depaul thrift stores.I have been shopping there for many years even before my husband lost his job with Ford, but lately they have gotten more crowded.Roughly 75% of our clothes(family of five) come from these two stores.I routinely get Levi's or other name-brand jeans for $3-$5, kids clothes for $1-$2 per item(even embroidered Disney Princesses sweatshirts for my 4-year-old),have found household items (end tables, cookware,kids' toys,books),and even recently bought two folding clothes drying racks for $20 each.These were available on Target's website for $80 each.I plan to minimize my electric dryer use, and these racks hold at least one load each and can be moved outside(they have wheels) or used inside in the winter.Another bonus will be clothes last longer when not put in the dryer. I have shopped thrift stores for years as I hate to waste money ,it is like a treasure hunt, and I have found much cuter clothes for my daughters than at Walmart.My teenage son even wore Goodwill clothes to his girlfriend's prom, and I have seen many prom/bridesmaid/wedding dresses there the last few years,too.With the "average"wedding costing just under 30k(per another article on MSN), I bet these will start flying off the racks, but who pays that much to get married,anyway?That is just insane,in my opinion.I wouldn't pay that much for a car!

As for saving on food,everyone might want to look into Angel Food Ministries.They are nationwide, have a website for more info, and work through local churches.Basically, they sell monthly food packages that contain about $60 worth of restaurant quality food for $30, with additional meat packages available with orders.There are no income limitations, and they take food stamps.I have heard good things about it, and plan to do it this month to start stocking up for the winter.

I should be able to retire in my late 50's largely due to years of living below my means. It really isn't that hard if you separate your NEEDS from your WANTS. I did not buy a new car for years until I had eradicated all debt (including the mortgage) and could pay cash. I live in the first home I ever bought which is probably worth less than a quarter of what I would "pre-qualifiy" for. Who needs lots of rooms to clean/pay taxes on/heat/cool when we tend to sit in the same chair every night? I picked a historic urban home before it became "chic" so I don't have a long commute to work.

I have always used coupons. Plant a garden (tastes better plus exercise and quiet time). Use the library instead of hitting Borders. Turn off lights. Buy in bulk. Shop Ebay. Buying clothes off-season on discount - easy if you stick to classic separates that mix and match

I still loosen the purse strings as a reward on occasion, but I recognize it as such and get right back on the simple lifestyle track.

I agree about learning a craft, and especially learning to sew. While I have made my own clothes for many years, and have a good knowledge of tailoring, I'd really like to see folks learn how to do basic repairs. If people learn to hem a pair of pants, sew on buttons and patches, their clothing dollars would stretch farther. Many is the time I've extended the life of my clothes by years simply by repairing a zipper or tear or converting one garment into another one. It would thrill me to no end to never hear a friend or coworker ask me to sew on a button or hem a pair of jeans for them, and I know it would save them money in tailor's expenses. Plus, being able to alter a used garment or one bought on sale that's 'not quite right' can be a source of pride. The 'oldtime' skills of my mother and her mother are things I'm always glad I learned.

You are very correct, there are numerous buffets that provide more variety and quantity of food for alot less than I can prepare myself. When combined with a shopping outing this stretches the dollar even more. Some even allow you to fill a togo box and charge you by the pound for it, regardless what items you have in it. Makes good lunches for work for only a couple of bucks.

Harriet, that all sounds so great ( like when I was a kid )

I remember when my son was little, like around 3 and he had his own little table in the
kitchen...one night I set up his little table with a cloth and a little flower in a vase and he thought
he was king of the world !!! He was just so happy and stated it was just like being in a fancy restaurant and he kept touching the flower and the vase and smiling so big. Most children would give anything to spend time with their parents and families doing things that kids love to do...like playing games because the crave the attention adn time they get. Hey parents, get the kids away from the video games and into the board games so you can interact. One of the last times me and my son spent together was playing trivial pursuit Jr. (he beat me) a few weeks later he was gone and I treasure that memory. We also used to go shopping and good will & salvation army all the time. For both monetary and fun reasons. Sometimes you can find some of the coolest/funkiest stuff that teenagers would love to and view as "cool" (eighties clothes, retro look) - we could find some leather jackets and pants for about $15 that's a deal.

The new black what? Is there something I am missing?

I'll take a stab at that question. Apparently your wife doesn't "allow" you to watch HGTV/TLC, etc. Mine does. On their fashion shows, such as "What not to wear", you are not a whole person unless you have a black "ensemble".

Therefore black is fashionable.

Just don't get me started on "window treatments". Curtains are SO not cool!!

Black is always "in" in the world of fashion so when you say something is the new "black" it simply means it's "in."

????????????????? What planet are you from? This is not anything racial, but leave it to someone to find a way to make it racial. "Black" in this instance refers to fashionable. So if you want to make it racial (WHY??????????) then it would actuallly be a compliment. Again, WTF?

Good grief! See the above post.

I will have to agree with some of you on this; the title is definitely inappropriate. I saw the title, and I said to myself, this author can't be serious!. I read the article and couldn't find a single line where the author linked "black" with being fashionable. The title is ambiguous, and it is definitely a poor choice.

Are we all to infer that "black" means fashionable? Why use the word in a discussion of the economy in a society where it is no secret that most Blacks are poor? Excuse me??? Is this how really insensitive we have got in America?

It is not ambiguous, it is one of the most common expressions EVER.

Also if it was an indication of "po black folks" (as you guess) then why would it be NEW? There's nothing new about that !!!

Instead of being all OFFENDED right off the bat, how about finding out what it means FIRST so you don't come off sounding as stupid as you are.

Please, people, don't trip out!! EVERYTHING is not racist...

The term "the new black" is a reference to fashion, as in every woman should have a "little black dress". Nowadays, the "little black dress" can be in whatever color is fashionable this season, as in a "little red dress" or a "little cobalt blue dress".

Just stop with the racial, already; we've got enough problems without trying to manufacture new ones. And speaking of manufacturing...are we as a nation ever going to do any more of that or has that gravy train left the station for good????????

yes, just as Sigh said.

common phrases " this season, pink is the new black, or "yellow is the new black" also meaning it is a "must have" color for the season, since black is always the must have clothing color (as in little black dress)

IDIOTS GOD, I'M SO SICK OF PEOPLE GETTING OFFENDED FROM NOTHING AT ALL !!!
DON'T LASH OUT JUST BECAUSE YOU'RE STUPID