Rue La La....Ooh La La

Being frugal doesn't necessarily mean being cheap. While it's true that price is the biggest priority, quality is also at the top of the list. I, for one, do put price ahead of everything else. But I would be lying if I said that I don't spend money on impulse once in a while for something that I find of good quality, brand, and above all at a bargain price! But after having three kids, it is a challenge to find the right bathing suit and to top it off at a discount price. Most mommies out there can relate to this issue. Often times after several pregnancies, our skin just isn't the same. So why not make the best of what we have? Out of an impulse I ordered from Rue La La a DKNY indigo u-neck maillot one piece swimsuit. It is part of their Spring 2011 collection, and the regular retail price is $104. Obviously being the frugal person that I am, I did not pay $104! I only paid $39.99, after tax and shipping I still come at just a bit under 50%!! And am I proud of this purchase? 100%!! I haven't felt sexier in a swimsuit in a very long time. This suit flatters my body, and provides the right amount of coverage right where I need it. 

So besides hitting the clearance racks at department stores for what's left of the season, is it possible to buy boutique items at a bargain price? Yes it is! They are private shopping clubs where club members can enjoy up to 70% off retail price brand name merchandise through limited-time events.These private shopping events usually last three days per boutique. It is like shopping at a sample sale only with the convenience of doing it from home. For example, they may open up a DKNY boutique for a period of three days for a limited number of items. You have the opportunity to purchase these items at a discount price, but there is a limited quantity they will allow you to get per item as well as a time limit on your shopping cart as items can sell out quickly. A club will hold several boutiques at a time and the boutiques are not limited to just clothing. They may include housewares, vacation packages, shoes, accessories, handbags, etc. etc. etc.

The clubs are by invitation only, which means a club member has to invite you in. Otherwise, you could request a membership and they will email you when there is a spot open for you. You will get daily or weekly emails with their latest boutiques openings and special events. As a club member you can invite your friends and family, and get a referral credit once they make their first purchase. Not only will you be spreading the word around, but you will also be earning some credits for doing so!

You ask, where do I find these private clubs and how can I get in? I first heard of them in the news and became curious about it. I had to request a membership and wait to get a spot. But now that I am in, I can spread the word! I am familiar with three of these clubs, and I am sure that there are more out there I just don't know about them *yet*.

Beyond the Rack - They have tons of events going on right now, including an awesome GPS system! With Beyond the Rack if you are a My Points member you will also earn points!
Rue La La - Jewelry, shoes, handbags, men's clothing, even linens!
RowNine - Fendi Eyewear, Braun Shaver, and some of the coming up boutiques include Farberware Cutlery, and Clarins skin care. RowNine runs weekly sweepstakes for very desirable prizes! I haven't won anything yet but I will surely keep trying.

What are you waiting for? Go check them out, spread the word and start shopping now!