personalised t shirts
Teens are often avid shoppers when it comes to everyday clothes, but when it comes to buying a prom dress, they’re often lost. Prom dresses are so different than other types of clothing that unless one has experience, they can easily buy the wrong dress and feel miserable for the entire prom evening. We’ve put together some great tips on buying prom dresses and other formal dresses to help you avoid common mistakes.
What’s the Formal Occasion?
Consider the occasion before buying a formal dress. There are many occasions that might require formal wear such as the prom or other formal dance, wedding, Quinceanera, homecoming, cocktail party, Oscar award event, and so forth. Each occasion is unique. Consider what you will be doing during the evening out. Will you dance, dine, walk, sit, move around a lot, give a speech, sing? Consider how flexible your prom dress or formal gown should be before buying.
Styles of Prom Dresses and Formal Wear
Do research online to view all the styles of prom dresses before you shop. There are many different styles, colors, hem lengths, and shapes of prom dresses that you can easily find the one that will look great on you. Some of the styles you’ll find include Aline (slimming with vertical seams and flared skirt), ball gown (natural waist line and full skirt), mermaid (fits tight to the body and flares at knees), and sheath (no defined waistline and horizontal line, great for shorter people).
Prom dresses come with different types of necklines such as jewel, halter, and spaghetti straps.
To find the latest fashions and styles, check out all of the major prom dress or formal wear designers such as Jovani, Flip, Tiffany, Scala, Jessica McClintock, Alyce, and Interlude. Each year, designers are finding new unique ways to design prom dresses and make prom girls shine on their special night.
Prom Dress and Formal Wear Colors
With prom dresses, the color choices are endless. There are light colors such as light pink, yellow, white, light beige, lavender, mint green, and many others. There are darker colors such as black, silver, gold, burgundy, dark blue, and dark green. The key to finding the right color is to match the color with your skin tone, hair color, and body shape. Think about what colors usually bring the most complements when wearing your regular clothing? These are likely your best colors. They blend well with your features and make your figure look great.
Some colors make plus size women look smaller (black, bright, or dark colors) while other colors can make them look larger (light colors). The same goes for someone who wants to appear fuller figured in certain spots. Choose a color and design that look great with your particular figure. And keep in mind that what looks great on your friend might not look good on you.
With other formal dresses, such as bridesmaid dresses, homecoming dresses, Oscar dresses, and pageant dresses, you might not get to choose from a wide variety of colors. Many of these events require certain colors to blend with the decorations.
Other Things to Consider
You’ll also need to shop for a prom dress or other formal gown according to your budget. Look around for great dresses within your price range from the beginning so you won’t go overboard. There are many styles of dresses within all price ranges and depending on the designer, the quality can vary as well.
Give yourself plenty of time for alterations if needed, especially when buying a prom dress online. You can’t try it on until you receive it, so you’ll want to order early enough to get alterations done before prom if necessary. Also, consider shipping costs when buying and whether there is a guarantee.
Think ahead to how you can accessorize your prom dress or formal wear. You’ll need shoes, jewelry, hose, possibly a hairpiece, a handbag, and other accessories. Be sure the color and style you choose can be easily matched with other items.
You can shop online to find prom dresses by popular designers and choose from many styles and colors. The prices are often lower also. Online formal wear shops usually offer formal dresses for all occasions including evening dresses, summer dresses, prom dresses, homecoming dresses, and many others. Start looking early so you can secure the prom dress of your dreams.
plus size dresses
gold jewelry
What is it about handbags that drive the girls bonkers? It’s handbags and shoes an awesome combination that makes significant others jealous everywhere.
And no, it’s never adequate only to possess one in your stash, but to have an entire years worth of handbags and fashion accouterments so that you can match it with whatever you’re wearing that day (or whatever mood you’re in).
There is something very sultry and raw about handbags they exude femineity. It’s probably the defining accessory for women because it goes beyond footwear, or other clothing we put on our physical bodies handbags are what make women standout from a purely fashion point of view.
Handbags are not merely eye candy, in fact, they provide various different uses as well. There are all purpose handbags that can carry your daily essentials such as cell phones, makeup, wallet, and anything else you’d like to have around with you.
There are particular handbags that people use to carry their canine fellows as well. Women rarely use one style of handbag. They usually have a rack full of different bags for different occasions.
There are all sorts of styles and fashions of handbags that will suit the taste of any discerning woman in the whole world. From wellknown handbags such as coach, to lesser known producers, there are wide product lines as diverse and unique as the stars in the sky.
If you think that’s still not impressive, there is a constant evolution of handbags on a annual basis, whereby the hottest new designers come out with a refreshing approach while the veteran designers produce instant classics adored by all.
Some groups prefer the name brands exclusively, while others go for lower tier handbags and purses, while yet others may consider a mix or even opt for replicas. Replicas usually are inferior in quality and certainly not a good decision in most cases.
bead jewelry
distressed leather purse
Having a hair cut can change your look completely. It can be better or worse. Sometimes you will feel better when having a new cut or color. Here is the story of hair.
The mysteries of maintaining beautiful hair should have been uncovered by now, but for many women finding a simple way to keep their hair looking wonderful is as elusive as it was to women centuries before. The desire for beautiful hair is not new. Ancient Egyptians shaved their heads and wore elaborate, heavy, braided wigs to achieve perfection. European history also abounds with torturous hair styles including the ornate, powdered styles wrapped around frames and horsehair which attracted vermin. All in the name of beauty.
Today, fashion still influences a woman’s hairstyle but that doesn’t mean you have to subject your hair to needless damage. Take advantage of the tips below on caring properly for your hair.
Even though your hair is not a living part of your body, itstill needs proper care for optimum health and beauty. One of the key elements to having shiny, healthy hair is to allow the natural oils in the scalp to lubricate it. The hair closest to the scalp benefits from natural sebum oils the most while longer hair can become dry and brittle from a lack of these oils.
No matter what exotic ingredients it’s made up of , shampoo performs a simple job of removing excess oils, pollution and styling product build up from the hair. All of your hair needs gentle cleansing but it is the top two or three inches that is most weighed down with natural oils and dulling hair products. Concentrating the washing in that area will reduce the amount of oils removed from longer areas of hair which can be over dried from the stripping of oils and extended contact with shampoo.
Conditioning on the other hand should be used sparingly, if at all, on the top inches of the hair while concentrated on the ends. Conditioning is an important step to replace needed oils and provide protection from styling agents such as blow dryers and irons.
Your hair will look its most beautiful when you choose a style that requires the least amount of heat and product damage. Protecting your hair with conditioners is key, but choosing a style that suits the texture of your hair will eliminate the need for more torturous styling tools.
Frizzy and dry hair can benefit from the application of silicone based products. Bear in mind that a little goes a long way and concentrate the product on the ends of your hair.
When blow drying keep the blow dryer at least six inches from your hair to prevent excessive damage from the heat. Blow drying in the direction of the shaft (down the length of hair) will create a smoother appearance.
Anytime you use chemicals in your hair you should make sure your hair is in a healthy condition before applying the treatment. Overuse of these treatments can damage hair beyond repair and affect the results of the products.
Your hair will look shinier and feel thicker when you remove dried and split ends. Trimming the hair every 6 to 8 weeks will keep it looking its best.
Taking simple steps to maintain healthy hair will put you on track to more ‘good hair days’ than you ever thought possible!
brown clutch purse
watch home
Few breeds are as widely loved as the Maltese. This intelligent and affectionate pet is popular all over the world with the rich and famous as well as the commoners.
The Maltese is a playful and adventurous little dog with a rich history dating back more than 28 centuries.
As with every breed there is some disagreement about the first traces of the breed. Some say the dog originated in Sweden and is a descendent of a Spitz type dog.
The Greeks believe the first Maltese originated in the Isle of Malta. They called this dog “Melitaie Dog”. Melitae was the ancient name for Malta. Some sources indicate the Maltese originated in Asia.
The earliest artifacts resembling Maltese dogs was found in Egypt. These date back to between 600300 B.C. suggesting that the ancient Egyptians worshipped early forms of the Maltese.
There are many historical pictoral representations of these dogs. Greek cermaic art and many Greek and roman philosphers also mention the Maltese. Aristotle and many other noteworthy philosophers and historians mention the dog. The Greeks even erected tombs to their Maltese.
These tiny dogs most likely made their way through Europe and the Middle East as nomadic tribes migrated. Some say the little dogs were used in bartering and in this way the Maltese found its way around Europe, and beyond.
The Maltese was regarded as a upper class dog, prized by aristocrats, statespersons and royalty. In the middle of the 19th Century it was regarded as quite fashionable to have a Maltese in your pocket or handbag. Some even believed that the dog possessed magical healing powers.
The first records of the Maltese in Britian is during the reign of Henry VIII. Many royals have enjoyed Maltese companions since then. Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria also owned Maltese.
Nobody documented how the Maltese came to America. The Maltese were first seen in the US in the late 1800’s. The first Maltese was white and listed as a “Maltese Lion Dog” at the first show in 1877. The American Kennel Club started recognizing the breed in 1888.
Maltese owners come from all walks of life. Many pop culture icons have owned these good natured little dogs. Marylin Monroe, Elvis Presley, Elizabeth Taylor and Tony Bennett are some of the famous owners.
Most likely its white color and long silky coat had a great deal to do with its popularity. It also has alot to do with its great personality
men’s belts
buy brand
Marriage anniversaries are reminders of the social union of two people in the journey of life by starting a conjugal life. They remind them how fresh the marriage is if it has only been a few years since the wedding day. If the marriage anniversary is many years since the wedding day, it reaffirms the love and commitment of the couple towards each other that has stood the test time. In addition, such occasions need celebrations that are equal to the wedding celebrations, if not greater. Getting married is easy, but staying married is difficult. The gifts given on marriage anniversaries should keep this in mind and not be a casual affair. A lot of thought and care should be taken while deciding on an anniversary gift basket.
Regular anniversary gifts include flowers, candies, cakes, photo frames, luxury boxes, cuff links etc. There are some exciting anniversary gift ideas around. It is a novel anniversary gift idea to gift the newspaper of the wedding day. It would take the couple down memory lane and remind them of the happenings in the world around when they were wed. Pampering the couple with bed and breakfast vouchers, cruise or resort tickets for two to spend a few days away from the routine of life would add zing to the couples life and arranging for their stay in a health resort to rejuvenate are brilliant ideas. Specially ordered artworks like penciling sketches of the couple, watercolor or oil painting of them are emotional ideas of an anniversary gift. While having their faces painted on an Adam and Eve painting is a humorous idea.
Wine bottles carrying the couples names and a message, Mr. and Mrs. shaped chocolate candies, and collections of happy ending romantic movies are some more exciting ideas for an anniversary gift.
The anniversary gift basket can be filled with many things that include flowers, chocolates candies, perfume bottles, a bottle of wine and many other things. Another way to make an anniversary basket by yourself is to buy bulk candy from the store and fill the basket. The choice of basket should be a little different too. A child could be happy with a backpack filled with candies rather than an ordinary basket and a woman will always find another cosmetic or handbag useful. A male will appreciate a travel bag.
Bulk candy can be purchased from stores or may be ordered online from a number of online stores that provide the service.
leather laptop satchel
quilted stam handbag
Cookiecutter fashion handbags are a dime a dozen, and thousands of them are produced in factories and sold in every town. But handmade handbags are delightful, rare treasures that any woman can be proud of. When a handbag is handmade, it is unique in many ways and reflects the skill and creativity of its maker. Many women in Indonesia choose to handstitch handbags to earn a living for their families. Their handbags are beautifully embroidered with amazing designs, but yet they usually possess the same or better quality as any factorymade handbag.
If you’re just yearning to own an elaborate but unusual handbag, here are some great tips. Let’s explore what types of Indonesian handbags are available and how to choose the right one for you.
Look for Practicality
Before falling in love with a certain design, be sure the handbag will meet your everyday needs. Do you need the handbag for work or play? Do you plan on using it every day or only for special evenings out on the town? Also, consider how many items you will need to carry in the handbag. Handmade handbags come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They range from petite to very large travel handbags. Some come with shoulder straps while others have hand straps. There are even very small makeup carriers for trips. It depends on how and where you plan to use it.
Choosing a Design and Color for Your Handmade Handbag
Handmade handbags come with a variety of styles and designs. Embroidery is used to create unique patterns such as diamonds, curved lines, circles, stars, and floral patterns. Indonesian handbags are often creatively labeled to express the type of design and color on the handbag. The words gift, live, great, eternal, recover, morning, believe, and so forth reflect the personality behind the purse as well as the style and color. Choose a style that matches several of your outfits, or that blends well with your body shape and hairstyle or color.
For spring and summer, there are colors such as red, cream, light blue, or olive. For fall and winter, colors such as black, dark brown, dark blue, and silver are excellent choices.
Help those in Need with Charity Bags
Another option to consider when buying an Indonesian handmade handbag is to shop for charity bags (or charity purses). Charity bags are made by those in Indonesia who need the money for daily food and supplies. Some companies in the United States offer to buy the handbags and resell them to Americans or through the Internet. A few companies will even train the workers and provide sewing and embroidery supplies to work with. One such company is Laga Handbags (online), which helps women who were survivors of the tragic tsunami of 2006 in Sumatra, Indonesia. The women workers of Indonesia are able to learn skills for a lifetime while providing a valuable service to handbag lovers.
When choosing a company for handmade handbags, research online to find companies that offer authentic Indonesian handbags, not replicas. The real handmade handbags are usually priced from 35 up to 150, depending on the style and size of the bag. Companies should provide detailed information about how and where the handbags are obtained, and where the company is located. Look for companies that are upfront about their procedures and customer policies.
A handmade handbag from Indonesia can also be a memorable surprise as a gift for Mother’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, or other occasions. The handbags are reliable and affordable, and the remarkable craftsmanship of Indonesian women makes them highly desirable in the fashion world. Go online today to find that perfect handmade handbag for you!
baby diaper bag
quilted
Are you new to private label rights, Internet Marketing or are you unsure of what to do, or where and how to begin with any of wide options available? Youve probably heard of Internet Marketers making lots of money online, but you dont have the talent to write and create information products or make crafts. Youre not a programmer so you dont know how to develop killer application software.
You cant get into wholesale and reselling designer shoes, handbags and other fashion items because you dont have a whole lot of money to invest. Believe it or not, youre perfect for affiliate marketing!
You can make money of off other peoples products or services by becoming an affiliate marketer. You may not have your own product or service, but there are others out there who do exceptionally well and theyre willing to give you commissions in exchange for promoting their materials. Many companies and small business owners use affiliate marketing to sell their products for them. They provide graphics and text advertisements that affiliates can use for promoting their products or services.
You can also get private label rights and PLR content. These are the simplest and fastest way to stamp your name and market information without being an actual writer or a published author! The services are all over the Internet, but caution with the high fees.
Going back to the affiliate option, as an affiliate, you will have your own unique code or link that serves to identify you as the affiliate who made the sale of a specific affiliate marketing product.
Most affiliates today are called publishers because many of them have their own sites or blogs where they are promoting other peoples products. As a publisher, you can choose from the thousands of affiliate programs available and you can even devote an entire site or blog towards preselling specific products. When someone who visits your site or blog clicks on your affiliate link and buys from the merchant youre an affiliate with a new commission. You get paid your commissions based on the terms set by the merchant.
How much money youll make as an affiliate depends on the commissions offered by the different merchants. For instance, someone selling a 50 ebook may offer 75 commission for every sale. Diamond merchants generally offer between 8 and 12 commission on the sale price, so you can make a handsome amount on a 5,000 diamond ring or a 10,000 bracelet.
Then there are merchants such as mortgage brokers and credit card companies that will pay you a fixed sum for referring qualified contacts or leads. There are also companies that offer continuing commissions if customers purchase membership with recurring billing (and remain a member) from your affiliate link.
Some affiliate programs have unusual terms and conditions. For instance, there are merchants who are willing to pay commissions of up to 200 of the sale price of the product. There are others that offer tiered commission structures wherein you also make a commission from sales brought in by a person who signs up as an affiliate via your affiliate link. Some companies offer tiers that are four or five levels deep.
In resume, start as an affiliate marketer advertising other people products or go the simplest and easy way with your own pen name by using private label rights and PLR content if you dont have that mile budget, upload the site to the Internet and your kiss your competition goodbye by being persistent and constantly searching for more traffic opportunities!
bag shoulder
collection model
Well, it is definitely that time of year again, the time of year when we are all being forced to think about the holiday shopping season even before Halloween has come and gone. It’s still warm outside and the store displays are now featuring Santa Claus and the newest glittering Christmas ornaments for your Christmas tree. So, I suppose then it would be wise of us to begin thinking about how to approach our shopping techniques for the new holiday season. We simply must make a commitment to not making the same mistakes we made last year standing in the long lines, fighting the crowds, spending more than we budgeted, waiting until the absolute last minute or being the first in line on “Black Friday” (the day after Thanksgiving which traditionally marks the start of the holiday shopping season) and ultimately getting trampled over as we fight to get that discounted digital camera or flat screen tv.
Instead, we are going to take the “Smarter Shopper Holiday Pledge” (for printing and sharing).
“Smarter Shopper Holiday Pledge”
I, (insert your name here), pledge to adhere to the ten holiday shopping tips outlined below. I realize that by not doing so, I may suffer the consequences of holiday shopper’s remorse which include but are not limited to loss of cash reserves, higher credit card debt, and near insanity from overexposure to large crowds, outrageous lines, and low product inventory.
1. I will use cash.
Using cash makes it easier to stay within the budget. I don’t even mean using your debit card because you’re able to justify going over just a bit on a particular gift if there’s money available in your checking account. I say set limits, use cash, and when the cash is gone, there’s no more gift buying. Now, this is going to take some selfcontrol and I struggle with it myself at the holiday season, but if you’ve got 100 for gifts, then don’t push the budget and spend 101. No matter how wrapped up you get into the Christmas lights, music, and other smiling holiday shoppers carrying their large shopping bags, stay within your budgetcash will help you do that!
2. I will keep track of my credit card spending.
Ok, if you absolutely must use a credit card, use the one with the lowest interest and know how you are going to pay off the credit card balance. Carrying balances obviously costs more than the item itself. So, that bargain that we got at the holidays is no longer a bargain 90 120 days later. Have a plan to pay off the holiday purchases. Additionally and just as important, know how much you are spending on those credit cards. You still need to set limits.
3. I will be patient.
There’s nothing like waiting in a long check out line and have to endure price check after price check or a declined credit card holder arguing with the cashier, or even a shift change just as you approach the register. However, we all know these things happen. Calm down and be patient. Should you need a small book or magazine to bring along with you, do so. If leaving the kids at home is an option because they’ll add additional stress to your trip, do so. Maybe just taking a deep breath will help. Just calm down and be patient.
4. I will start shopping early in the season and get it out of the way.
I’ve never understood why people wait until the very last minute to do their holiday shopping when they know it drives them nuts. Start shopping now. The malls aren’t overcrowded yet. No one else is really thinking about holiday shopping for now. You could be the first one.
5. I will give less expensive but creative gifts instead.
Now, I’m not necessarily suggesting arts and crafts here unless of course that’s what you want to do. But, all of us are not creative minds. However, for example, if you think of one gift that would work an entire family, you’ll definitely save money. My family loves old movies. A great creative gift basket consisting of a few old movies, popcorn and candy, and maybe a blanket would definitely be less expensive than trying to get us all individual gifts. Think outside the box to say money!
6. I will have a game plan.
In order to get those must have items or those hard to find popular items, you have to create a game plan. That game plan has to take in consideration the availability of the items, the budget, and when you can go get the items. Don’t leave your house without a game plan outlining where you’re going, what you’re going to purchase, how much you are going to purchase it for, and what your alternate gift selections are. Yes, you should at least have in mind what the alternate gift item will be should you not be able to find the gift or if you are on the loosing end of an instore battle with another determined mom.
7. I will shop safely.
Safer is better. Watch your personal belongings at all times including handbags, purchases, and children. Pay particular attention at the register when you can be distracted by the particulars of the transaction or outside in the parking lot or waiting on public transportation. Last holiday season I was out late with other shoppers on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, where you might feel a false sense of security. A team of pursesnatchers was out looking for their next victim. They spotted her, with her children, completely distracted, purse wide open, while crossing busy Michigan Avenue. Luckily, someone else saw how the situation was about to unfold and warned her before her holiday shopping season was be ruined. Be a safe shopper!
8. I will get enough rest.
There’s nothing like going out during the holiday shopping season and running out of steam. An important part of your shopping game plan should be to get plenty of rest the night before. Get a great start in the morning with a good breakfast and wear comfortable shoes. You should be all set to go. These type of shopping trips can sometimes go all day and night, especially if you’re like a friend of mine who likes to literally shop until the stores close down, grabbing that last bargain on the rack as the last call announcement goes out over the intercom. Be prepared and get some rest.
9. I will not forget the bargains at the outlet malls.
If you are in downtown Chicago and looking for a change, one of the outlet malls for holiday bargains. You’ll need a car but the prices can be well worth the drive. When we make a list of things to do in Chicago, we often overlook the feasibility of the outlet malls. There are bargains on upscale merchandise from designers such as Kate Spade, Giorgio Armani, and Coach at Chicago Premium Outlet Mall and Lighthouse Place Premium Outlet (in nearby Michigan City, Indiana). Gurnee Mills Outlet Mall features retailers for the whole family, a huge Cineplex, as well as, a reptile zoojust in case the kids need a break. And if you go to Gurnee Mills Outlet Mall, then you might as well stop by Prime Outlets Pleasant Prairie Mall which is just a few miles away just across the Wisconsin border. Or, you might choose to visit the Prime Outlet Mall in Huntley, Illinois which is located just west of Chicago along the Northwest toll way. Visiting the Prime Outlet Mall in Huntley would give you the added opportunity to visit the IKEA store and The Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Illinois.
10. I will attempt to avoid the crowds at all costs.
Shopping earlier during the day or first thing Saturday morning will help avoid some of the crowd during the week and those late risers on Saturday or Sunday. Or if you like shop later in the evening, most stores will have extended holiday hours. Most people like to be at home by this time. This can work in your favor. There are fewer crowds in the evening. But remember to be safe.
Note You, could of course, just do your shopping online but then that takes all of the “fun” out of the whole holiday shopping experience.
leather clutch purse
roman
Are you new to private label rights, Internet Marketing or are you unsure of what to do, or where and how to begin with any of wide options available? Youve probably heard of Internet Marketers making lots of money online, but you dont have the talent to write and create information products or make crafts. Youre not a programmer so you dont know how to develop killer application software.
You cant get into wholesale and reselling designer shoes, handbags and other fashion items because you dont have a whole lot of money to invest. Believe it or not, youre perfect for affiliate marketing!
You can make money of off other peoples products or services by becoming an affiliate marketer. You may not have your own product or service, but there are others out there who do exceptionally well and theyre willing to give you commissions in exchange for promoting their materials. Many companies and small business owners use affiliate marketing to sell their products for them. They provide graphics and text advertisements that affiliates can use for promoting their products or services.
You can also get private label rights and PLR content. These are the simplest and fastest way to stamp your name and market information without being an actual writer or a published author! The services are all over the Internet, but caution with the high fees.
Going back to the affiliate option, as an affiliate, you will have your own unique code or link that serves to identify you as the affiliate who made the sale of a specific affiliate marketing product.
Most affiliates today are called publishers because many of them have their own sites or blogs where they are promoting other peoples products. As a publisher, you can choose from the thousands of affiliate programs available and you can even devote an entire site or blog towards preselling specific products. When someone who visits your site or blog clicks on your affiliate link and buys from the merchant youre an affiliate with a new commission. You get paid your commissions based on the terms set by the merchant.
How much money youll make as an affiliate depends on the commissions offered by the different merchants. For instance, someone selling a 50 ebook may offer 75 commission for every sale. Diamond merchants generally offer between 8 and 12 commission on the sale price, so you can make a handsome amount on a 5,000 diamond ring or a 10,000 bracelet.
Then there are merchants such as mortgage brokers and credit card companies that will pay you a fixed sum for referring qualified contacts or leads. There are also companies that offer continuing commissions if customers purchase membership with recurring billing (and remain a member) from your affiliate link.
Some affiliate programs have unusual terms and conditions. For instance, there are merchants who are willing to pay commissions of up to 200 of the sale price of the product. There are others that offer tiered commission structures wherein you also make a commission from sales brought in by a person who signs up as an affiliate via your affiliate link. Some companies offer tiers that are four or five levels deep.
In resume, start as an affiliate marketer advertising other people products or go the simplest and easy way with your own pen name by using private label rights and PLR content if you dont have that mile budget, upload the site to the Internet and your kiss your competition goodbye by being persistent and constantly searching for more traffic opportunities!
chateaubriand
charm
Traditionally, using plastic abroad has always meant big charges. Things are a lot better these days, but they have taken a downward slide again in some European countries, as they get the option to add an extra charge to your bill.
In France, Italy and Spain, many of the bigger restaurateurs and retailers have a system called DCC dynamic currency conversion. It means they can convert your payment straight into sterling for you, at the till. This may sound tempting, but that conversion will add another 4 of the transaction onto your bill. What is often happening is that customers are authorising the payment in Euros, only for the retailer to put the payment through as sterling. UK customers don’t even realise that this is going on, until they get back and look at the card statements.
According to the Visa’s DCC guidelines, UK cardholders should be given the option to pay in Euros or sterling. Most people don’t get the option, they are not aware that there is an option, and leave none the wiser. The retailer gets the 4 by the way. Perhaps we could have put it down to the language barrier, but seeing as the retailer actually pockets the extra, we’re a bit suspicious of their motives.
The advice is request the payment to be put through in Euros. There are a few card companies like Lombard Direct, Saga and Nationwide that don’t actually charge you any extra for converting the payment into sterling. The big mainstream banks put a 2.75 charge on, but that’s still less than 4, so it’s worth paying in Euros.
If you look at the cost of changing your money into Euros in the UK, and changing your cash and traveller’s cheques in Europe you’ll find that paying by credit or debit card while abroad is still cheaper because Visa and MasterCard have better exchange rates. It’s also reassuring to take money out as you need it, rather than walking around with wads of cash, or having to queue to change traveller’s cheques.
In case you were still thinking of changing your money in a bureau de change, don’t fall for the commission free’ signs. They just charge you more on the actual exchange rate, so you’re still paying extra how else do you think they manage to stay in business!
Another tip don’t be tempted to withdraw cash using your credit card either abroad or in this country. You start paying interest immediately, and it’s always a very high rate of interest too. If you want to take cash out, only use your debit card.
That brings us neatly onto our next subject, you need to be very vigilant when dealing with your debit and credit cards. If someone manages to steal them, they will no doubt get away with a lot of your hard earned cash before you cancel the cards. What’s the problem you may think, we’re chip and pin now! But although card fraud has reduced thanks to this new technology, there is more than one way to skin a cat (so to speak). Here’s how (true story)
Mr Mrs B travelled to Prague for a week’s holiday, and Mr B was unfortunately pick pocketed and had his wallet stolen. Because the cards were all chip and pin, they did not report the cards as stolen, thinking that the thieves wouldn’t be able to use the cards. However, they were not victims of chance criminals. One of the group had watched the couple inputting a pin number at the cash machine. Then another member got the wallet. Armed with a card and a pin number, they cleaned out that account. Then they tried the same number on the other cards yes, you guessed it, all the cards had the same pin number. Mr and Mrs B returned to find they had been relieved of thousands of pounds.
It’s a common mistake as many as 1 in 3 cardholders use the same pin details for every card they own. Criminals know this, and many get away with a lot of money because they have a whole wallet full of cards they can access. You don’t have to be in Europe, this can happen anywhere.
We have two vital pieces of advice
Guard your number as you input it, someone could be watching, and later they could try to grab your wallet or handbag.
Don’t use the same pin number on more than one card. We know it can be hard to remember all these pin numbers, but you can use a variety of tricks to remember them birth dates for example.
By being vigilant and keeping your wits about you, you can reduce your chances of losing out to card fraud.
vintage messenger
