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Young People Having Fun At Barbecue Party.

Source: vgajic / Getty

We’re just a few short weeks away from our favorite time of year — a time filled with backyard barbecues, days on the water, shopping and traveling. Beauties, it’s officially almost SUMMER.

With so much to do, it can really put a hit on your wallet. We all want to be financially savvy as well as stylish. So how do you enjoy the summer months without overspending?

Check out my fave products to be a fabulous frugalista, as well as some need-to-know tips to save money while still splurging on the fun.

My favorite buys:

Need a light facial? Do this at home with Sephora masks. These little masks cover everything from dryness, wrinkles and brightening and at $6.00 a pop they are a great find!

Sunscreen: It is definitely that time of year where sunscreen will now be a necessity. My favorite is Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch. It provides powerful sun protection (spf 30+) and at a price around $7.00 it can’t be beat.

And don’t forget to start shopping for cute sandals now! Stores like Ann Taylor and Nordstrom Rack are going to be your go-tos for those black, white and navy sandals you will wear all summer long!

As for those summer socials, it’s crucial to follow these tips to save that money so you’re not broke by fall!

Young couple reading financial bill at home

Source: Dean Mitchell / Getty

Set an activity budget: It is easy to get swept up in all the events that will be taking place over the next few months, but make sure that you are clear about how much you want to spend and your financial goals. These don’t change just because it’s summertime so set a limit on how much you will spend every week or month on these activities and stick to it!

Women shopping together in mall

Source: Jose Luis Pelaez Inc / Getty

Look for sales: Right before the holidays, Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day, the grocery store will have sales on commonly needed items for that barbeque; make a list and stock up. Hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks etc. and reap the savings. Go to places like Costco or Sams’ club and save even more; use these places to stock up on alcohol too.

Need an outfit for all of those outings? Once we get to the end of June and early July, you will start to see sales on the spring clothes as the stores want to make way for fall. Be on the look-out and pick up 4 to 5 dresses or outfits all on sale! That way you are set for the summer outings. Also, don’t forget that you can always rent a dress! Renttherunway.com is a fabulous option! I love this option and have used it myself. I have enough cocktail dresses hanging in my closet never to be worn again and if you know this will be a one and done event, definitely rent a dress!

Loving couple at the beach

Source: andresr / Getty

Traveling? Beach trip or weekend getaway, plan ahead and leave early! The two most important tips bear repeating: take the time to plan ahead to take advantage of lower prices and if you can travel earlier in the morning (which is usually an unpopular time) then do it. You will see the savings!

Take these tips for a financially savvy and stylish summer!

Jennifer Streaks is a stylish moneypro and lifestyle expert and is a contributor for HelloBeautiful.com. She tweets @JStreaks and her website is JenniferStreaks.com.

MORE MONEY TIPS:

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