How to Be Frugal Without Looking Cheap

There are ways to save money without coming across as a tightwad.

Most people enjoy saving money, but they don't want to come across as being cheap, especially in social situations. It's one thing to pack a frugal lunch and eat it at your desk at work, and another to try to economize while socializing or entertaining friends. Below are some tips on how to save a little money while remaining classy.

Instructions

1. Switch to cloth napkins. There is an initial monetary outlay to get a good set of eight to 12 nice cloth napkins, but you will save money in the long run by not buying paper napkins once a month or so. A good quality set of cloth napkins can remain usable for several years. If you just wash them with your regular loads of laundry, there is no additional expense after the initial investment. Plus, they look more elegant than paper napkins if you're throwing a dinner party.

2. Shop at consignment stores and discount stores that sell marked-down designer clothing. While the average Salvation Army store or thrift store may not have a lot of stylish options, if you live near a mid-sized city, you can probably find a middle-end consignment store. A consignment store tends to carry fairly new gently used clothing, even items with designer labels. You can often purchase clothing or accessories--sometimes with the tag still on--and for 10 percent (or less) of the original cost this way. If you just can't bring yourself to buy used, discount stores like TJ Maxx or DSW shoe stores can be a great source of trendy clothing for a fraction of the original cost.

3. Offer to be the planner for outings with your friends. This way, you can either pick an inexpensive restaurant or entertainment option, or you can choose a venue for which you have coupons. If you have enough coupons to share with your dinner companions, do so. Even those who don't put a premium on frugality often enjoy a little discount. You can also invite friends to your place and plan an inexpensive evening consisting of a potluck dinner and card games.

4. Buy boxed wine but put it in a nice carafe. While it isn't the most stylish option, boxed or bagged wines are often inexpensive while being reasonably good quality. If you decant it into a nice decorative carafe and put it on the table with dinner, nobody needs to know that you bought it in a box.

5. Plan a picnic and and a visit to a museum or gallery. This is a great option for an inexpensive but classy date night. An extremely nice picnic can be made at home for just a few dollars, and admission to your local art or history museum is probably free or by donation. Dates like this can be fun, educational and frugal.

Tips & Warnings

• If your favorite restaurants have email newsletters or birthday club memberships, sign up for them. This is a good way to get electronic coupons or alerts about special offers.

Resources

• Discounted gift certificates to popular restaurants