I spotted Mary, an LA blogger, on my favorite street in Venice, CA a couple months ago and fell for her ombre topknot and vixen lipstick. She launched the blog Fabulous on a Budget with her friend Leah (featured here), dispensing a range of tips for “living la dolce vita on a dime.” I ended up taking her streetstyle shot for Racked LA and thought I’d share her budget beauty tips with you, too. Catch Mary’s Five Ways to Save after the jump.

My Beauty Rules:  First of all, I am one of the most low maintenance girls, so I choose easy beauty routines that are fail proof.  Regardless of my attire, if I have red lips & a top knot, I’m insta-chic — even just grabbing coffee in the hood (like here).  Here’s how I save on looking fab… 

Good Hair:

I love ombre hair!  I’ve had this for a while now, and you never have to worry about it growing out, veeery Fabulous on a Budget.  It manages to be both glamorous and effortless — my ultimate style strive.  Best part, I get to be both blonde & brunette!  Every couple months, I have beauty parties at my casa, invite over a few girlfriends, open some wine, and invite our fav stylist to give us a great deal.

The top knot is my go-to for a chic look in a jiffy.  My hair is at an awkward grow out length, so sometimes I just like to sweep it up.  I think this is a fashion forward and irreverent hair choice that really works for everyone.  To keep my fly-aways at bay, I use “Smooth Operator” hair spray.  It’s amazing without being sticky or crunchy, and it’s less than $10… I’m sold.

Good Eyebrows:

I think this is one of the most IMPORTANT items to consider and honestly extremely underrated.  Eyebrows frame your face!  NYC makes a wax and powder combo that are great for a natural fill in and will tame unruly brows. Plus, it will only run you about $3.

Good Eyeliner:

I’m a fan of liquid liner.  I apply one stroke along my upper lid, and I’m done.  My cat eye effect is glamorous, chic, and timeless… not to mention, works for both day or evening!  I love Almay’s version. It’s under $12, has great application, and it will last aaaall day.  Not mad at that!

Good Skin:

To keep my skin clear, I drink a capful of Apple Cider vinegar (like tea) with hot water & honey daily.  It is super cleansing and will even brighten the whites of your eyes.  It lasts FOREVER and costs less than $5.  In one week, you will see the difference!  What’s better than prevention?

Good Lips:

I believe that a great lip color can sometimes be ALL you need!  Lipstick takes you from shleppy to glam in seconds. I LOVE this red; it’s called “Really Red” in matte by Revlon.

Also, another AMAZING color with incredible application is Wet & Wild 511B in Nouveau Pink… I receive compliments galore when I wear this shade!  People think it’s Chanel, YSL… literally everyone has something good to say!  It’s sure to pick up your mood, look great, AND it’s only 99 cents!!

Tagged as: Abbot Kinney, StreetStyle