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March 6, 2017

10 Wow-Worthy Wedding Makeup Tips for the DIY Bride

You want your big day to be flawless, and that includes your wedding makeup. Get the lovely looks you and your bridesmaids crave with the best wedding makeup ideas around. No matter your stunning style, you’ll save a pretty penny with Cash Back at Ebates and some simple DIY wedding makeup tips. Here are our top 10 tips for flawless wedding makeup!

1. Prime Time

The best bridal makeup begins with the perfect surface. No matter the season or location of your wedding, the ideal primer will ensure your makeup stays put from your walk down the aisle to photos and every dance move in between. Apply a water-based primer from a makeup maven like Kat Von D Beauty and get ready for the smoothest skin possible. You’ll notice your makeup has more staying power than ever before. If you’re going for any shadow, be sure to keep your lids lovely with an eye shadow primer to prevent creases too!

2. Matte Is a Must

Overly oily skin can get in the way of even the best makeup looks. Combat that greasy glow in an instant with top-rated oil-blotting papers from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. A must-have for summer weddings and warmer climates, these ultra-thin papers are perfect for an on-the-go touch-up without smudging your bridal makeup. They’ll soak up sweat and oil and leave your skin feeling flawless.

3. Hands Off

Using a clean brush or soft makeup sponge is one of the best wedding makeup tips around. Skip breakouts on your big day by always applying foundations, BB creams, concealers and anything else that touches your face with a clean makeup brush or damp blender.You’ll prevent any dirt and bacteria from transferring from fingers to face. Plus, great makeup tools will give you that flawless finish you want, without leaving behind smudges and fingerprints. Be sure to blend well to stop those pesky makeup lines from infiltrating your wedding photos.

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4. All About the Arch

The right makeup for wedding day photos is crucial. Don’t let your bare brows steal the spotlight! Instead, if your eyebrows are slightly sparse, give them some shape with an eyebrow pencil or defining cream from NARS Cosmetics. You’ll frame your face and really make your snapshots pop. Be sure to watch a wedding makeup tutorial to get your look just right, and practice perfecting your arches with the right shade before the big day.

5. Get Glowing

Ditch the dull and get a stunning sheen in seconds with a radiant highlighter. When properly placed, a highlighter can give you a subtle glow without making your face look like a strobe light. Pop some in the corners of your eyes for a fresh-faced, awake look in an instant. Use it under your brow arch for a little lift, and sweep some on your cheekbones for a great glow if you’re looking for some easy glam. Check out e.l.f. Cosmetics for lots of illuminating essentials while saving with a makeup promo code.

6. Waterproof for the Win

Let happy tears flow freely and never mess up your makeup, thanks to waterproof wedding makeup. Your lashes will love a coat or two of waterproof mascara to keep them in perfect shape all day long. Check out some great, long-wear waterproof mascara options at Tarte Cosmetics and lengthen and strengthen your lashes with the best.

7. Stay Put

Once you’ve achieved your perfect bridal makeup look, be sure to set it with a great makeup setting spray, like Urban Decay’s All Nighter. Give your face a generous mist and let it dry to give your look staying power from morning to night.

8. Get Cheeky

The last thing you want is for your face to appear washed out in your wedding photos. Avoid a dull look by adding a pop of color to your cheeks with a natural-looking cream blush. It’ll give you instant lift and a healthy glow. Smile, pop some color on the apples of your cheeks and blend out toward the temples for the perfect look.

9. Bright Eyes

Skip red, tired eyes with your favorite anti-red eye drops. We recommend the tried-and-true Clear Eyes Maximum Redness Relief. A must if you’re anticipating a late night the day before your vows, eye drops will get the red out and brighten up your look instantly.

10. Bye-Bye, Bags

Pesky under-eye bags and dark circles have no place in your wedding photos. Prep your delicate under-eye area with a moisturizing eye cream and let it sink into your skin. After your primer layer, dot on a color-correcting concealer in a triangle shape under your eyes and blend out toward your cheekbones. This technique will give you a great, natural-looking highlight and cover up any drab darkness under your eyes. Be sure to set it with a light powder before your grand appearance.

December 29, 2016

The Best Things to Buy in January

Now that the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping is over, you may be looking for ways to save more than you would at any other time of the year. Some strategic shopping in January will set you up for serious savings in the long term. For example, while everyone else is paying top dollar on spring clothing, you’ll find amazing prices on winter staples you’ll still need for the cold months ahead. Here’s our complete list of the most affordable things to buy this month, most of which you can find with Cash Back at Ebates.

Keep Your Fitness Resolutions

Looking to get ripped and trim for 2017? Retailers know this is prime time for clearing out their stock of fitness equipment, and it’s priced to move. Look for sitewide sales and discounts from sporting goods brands and department stores alike. We’ve also noticed many gyms offer amazing New Year’s discounts on memberships that could keep you motivated to move.

Stores to Watch: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sears

Grow Your Winter Wardrobe

As we mentioned, most people are ready to start shopping for spring clothes this time of year simply because they’re starting to appear in favorite stores. Don’t be tempted to purchase your entire warm-weather wardrobe now. Instead, find amazing clearance sales on winter staples. In fact, with warmer-than-normal temperatures this season, many brands are experiencing an overstock on coats and sweaters. This means big savings for you!

Stores to Watch: Nordstrom, Columbia

File For Less

Tax season may be months away, but those W-2s will be in your mailbox in no time, and it’s always a good idea to get a jump start on filing. We’ve seen great deals in past Januaries on income tax software and services, so keep an eye out. Just be sure the deal includes the cost of filing your state taxes as well—that often requires an extra fee. Always read the fine print.

Stores to Watch: TaxACT, FreeTaxUSA

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Update With Fine Furnishings

January is also notorious for bringing major furniture clearance sales. Some sales go from 40- to even 75 percent off regular prices. New year, new living room!

Stores to Watch: Ashley Furniture, Horchow

Deck the Halls Next Year

Obviously, retailers will be almost giving away holiday decor this time of year just to clear it out of stores. Take advantage and get ambitious about next year’s decorating! This is the perfect time to splurge on that 20-foot LED reindeer.

Stores to Watch: Walmart, Kmart.

Take Your TV Watching Up a Notch

4K TV prices are bound to plummet after CES early this month, when new models are slated to be announced. Black Friday was the first time we saw significant savings on 4K TVs as well, which usually means the savings will continue.

Stores to Watch: Best Buy, Sam’s Club

Take a Hike

On January 16, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, all national parks will offer admission for precisely zero dollars. This means you can visit popular parks including Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon and Olympic National Park—which all normally charge fees of around $12 per person. Explore wide open spaces without leaving one in your wallet.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 15, 2016

18 Stores Offering Paid and Free Gift Wrapping

Online shopping makes gift buying all the more easier. But what about when all those packages come to your door? Whether you’re wrapping-challenged or just don’t have the time, it always helps to know which stores offer free gift wrapping or at least will wrap them for a nominal cost. Believe us, you want to take advantage of all the freebies you can get on top of holiday deals to make the most out of your money. Here are 18 top stores you can shop through Ebates that offer free or reasonably-priced gift wrapping.

Paid Gift Wrapping With Online Purchase

Free Gift Box With Online Purchase

Brooks Brothers

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Jared

They’ll even wrap it for you, too!

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Saks Fifth Avenue

Box comes with ribbon. There is an additional charge for wrapping your gift box.

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Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

December 5, 2016

New Mom Clothing Staples You Absolutely Need

When a baby comes into your life, everything changes, including your wardrobe. However, just because you’re rocking new mom clothing doesn’t mean it has to be drab or accessory-free. Keeping your identity while getting the hang of this whole motherhood thing is extremely important, and developing your own take on new mom fashion is a great way to do that. Here are some must-have new-mom closet staples that make a statement. The best part: Each of these comes with Cash Back at Ebates.

The Black Jegging

Why You Need It: Comfort is key when you’re low on sleep and at wit’s end. The stretch of a jegging will be a gift from heaven. Plus, black is forgiving when it comes to spills, spit-ups or worse.

Why You’ll Love It: They still look like jeans! New mom clothes do not have to include yoga pants. At least, not all the time.

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The Printed Maxi Dress

Why You Need It: Time for some ugly truth: When showers become a luxury, so does leg shaving. Full-length postpartum dresses will literally have you covered.

Why You’ll Love It: Bold prints will awaken the senses and remind you of all the things you love about fashion.

The Velvet Blazer

Why You Need It: You’ll probably be living in T-shirts for quite a while. A blazer will instantly dress up an old tee and will look amazing with jeans.

Why You’ll Love It: Realizing you can easily pull off a statement piece like this will be a big win in reclaiming your personal style.

The Blanket Scarf

Why You Need It: A big, chunky scarf like this tends to lie right were baby stains happen most. So when you’re in a hurry and can’t change your top, just drape on this baby (or drape it on your baby) and pretend it never happened.

Why You’ll Love It: If you’re lamenting the added baby weight around your midsection, blanket scarves cover that up, too.

The Incognito Nursing Shirt

Why You Need It: If you’re nursing, this is a no-brainer. Anything to make things easier is a must.

Why You’ll Love It: No obvious hooks or clips, and no weird draping. It’s just a miracle disguised as a plain shirt.

The Statement Teething Necklace

Why You Need It: If you’ve ever met a baby, you know her favorite thing is to put stuff in her mouth. Wearing jewelry around babies is actually kind of dangerous, for them and for the jewelry itself. Silicone necklaces like these do double duty as teething toys and as fashion accessories.

Why You’ll Love It: You’d have to look twice to know it was rubber!

The Designer Diaper Bag

Why You Need It: It’s certainly true that you get what you pay for, and diaper bags are no exception. Spending a little extra on a quality bag will make sure it lasts the 2–3 years you’ll need it. Keep an eye out for a baby gear promo code to save a bundle on these big-ticket items.

Why You’ll Love It: Parting with your giant, do-all purse will hurt — trust us. A diaper bag that looks like a purse will ease the sting.

November 26, 2016

Gift Guide: 10 Gifts for Men Who Have All the Things

Looking for the perfect something for your special guy? We did the hard work for you, consulting the pickiest guys in the office to put together this winning list of unique gifts for him. So go ahead, relax and earn Cash Back at Ebates while you score some amazing gifts for him this holiday season.

Beardbrand ‘Four Vices’ Beardsman’s Kit, $238 (Nordstrom)

Beard oil, mustache wax, combs and trimming scissors make this kit a complete success for the bearded man in your life.

All the Rages LighTunes Bluetooth Wood Grain Speaker Lamp with Alarm Clock Radio, $147.45 (Belk)

A gorgeous and practical multi-function lamp featuring wood grain, two high-quality speakers and an alarm clock.

Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves, $300 (Brooks Brothers)

Wrap his hands in luxury with these Italian-made leather gloves. Staying warm never felt and looked so good!

Brickell Purifying Charcoal Soap Bar, $12.00 (Bloomingdale’s)

There’s nothing wrong with putting a bit of charcoal in his stocking when it’s a purifying soap with coconut and peppermint oil.

Mainstreet Classics Octagon 5 in 1 Combo Game Set, $69.99 (Fingerhut)

Every man cave should be stocked with games, and this combo set is finished with quality details like real wood pieces and leather look surfaces.

Coaster Furniture Transitional Swivel Glider Recliner, $342.82 (Homeclick)

The classic dude chair with a modern twist: a built-in, Bluetooth-enable speaker system for simultaneous lounging and rocking out.

Acqua di Parma Colonia Leather Eau de Cologne Concentrée 3.4 oz., $228 (Bloomingdale’s)

Surprise your man with the unique pairing of citrus and leather in this woodsy cologne.

WLTOYS XK DETECT X380-C Drone GPS 2.4G 1080P HD Camera RC Quadcopter, $440.79 (Light in the Box)

There’s something about the power of flight that speaks to men. Now, thanks to drone technology, you can get him closer than ever to the real thing. This one even has GPS positioning and a built-in camera.

Ibex ‘Wool Aire Matrix’ Quilted Jacket, $250 (Nordstrom)

A stylish, sleek and eco-friendly jacket that will warm his heart.

Le Chef Whiskey Ice Stones, $10.99 (Overstock)

Rustic and reusable, these natural soapstone cubes are perfect for chilling beverages and come in an elegant pouch perfect for gifting.

November 20, 2016

The Latest Black Friday Trends You Can’t Miss

Black Friday is one of the most anticipated days of the year for many a savvy shopper. With crazy deep discounts on the hottest merchandise, you can see why this day after Thanksgiving has become a veritable holiday in its own right. It’s the ideal opportunity to check off everything on your wish list. We’re all waiting to see this year’s Black Friday ads and check out what’s in store. In the meantime, here’s a list of some of this year’s most popular Black Friday trends. Get ready to plan ahead for the biggest shopping day of the year while getting Cash Back with Ebates.

Get in the Game

Black Friday 2016 is going to be a good one for gamers. Some Black Friday experts are suggesting that the release of the Xbox One S, and the rumored release of Sony’s PlayStation Neo, along with the discontinuation of Xbox 360s and Disney Infinity, will lead to major steals on various gaming consoles. Consumers anticipate that The Xbox One bundle will be on sale for a deep discount at Walmart.

There is also a host of remastered video games to be released. Titles include Bethesda, Call of Duty: Infinite, and Pokémon Sun and Moon, suggesting that games will be a major Black Friday focal point.

Teeming With Toys

Recently, Toys ‘R’ Us and Walmart released their lists of some of the hottest toys of 2016.

Some of the items sure to light up the faces of many a child this Christmas include the Paw Patrol Zoomer Marshall, Shopkins Tall Mall Storage Case, Num Noms Lip Gloss Truck, the SelfieMic Music Set, Dreamworks Animation’s Trolls Hug Time Poppy Doll, Hatchimals, the Light ‘n Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker, Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy, PJ Masks Headquarter Playset, Pokémon Z-Ring Set with glow, Power Wheels Wild Thing, Star Wars Interactech Stormtrooper Figure and the Think and Learn Code-a-pillar.

While most are variations on the classics, there are also a couple of new items on the toy scene: drones. Two of the hottest toys of 2016 are the the Sky Viper v2400 HD Streaming Drone with FPV Headset and the Nerf N-Strike Elite Terrascout RC Drone Blaster.

Excellent Electronics

As usual, electronics are likely going to be some of the most sought-after Black Friday items nationwide. Traditionally, flat-screen TVs are a huge seller on Black Friday. This year will likely follow suit, particularly with flat-screen HD and smart TVs. Rumor has it that Best Buy will have some such items on sale in the $500 range for name-brand models and in the $200 range for off-brand.

In addition, laptops and tablets are always huge on both Black Friday and Cyber Monday. One of the projected hits this year is a 15.6-inch HP laptop with 4GB RAM, 500 GB hard drive and Intel Pentium-class processor from Walmart.

Apple is always one of the heavy hitters as well. Items like iPhones, tablets and laptops will be on the top of many a shopper’s list. Predictions expect Amazon to offer some major steals on Amazon Fire TV, Echo and Fire tablets.

Fabulous Fashions

As Heidi Klum reminds us each season on “Project Runway,” fashion can be fickle. “One day you’re in, the next you’re out.” However, Black Friday offers an excellent opportunity to stock up on the mainstays while also snagging the latest trends to grace the pages of style glossies.

Stores like Macy’s, ASOS, Nordstrom, Belk and Gap will stock up on the latest and greatest in hot looks. You’ll want to keep an eye out for deals on hot trend pieces like striped fitted sweaters, knee-high boots and leather skinnies.

November 18, 2016

Holiday Outfit Ideas for All Occasions

The holidays will be here before you know it, and with it, a plethora of gatherings. Between company parties, friendly shindigs and family affairs, you’ll need some fancier wardrobe pieces to celebrate the season in style. To inspire your look, we’ve come up with a few holiday outfit ideas that range from warm and cozy to wow-worthy. Whether you’re looking to spice up holiday cocktail dresses or holiday casual outfits, we’ve got you covered, with Cash Back at Ebates to boot.

Formal Affairs

MAJE Pleated velvet dress, $184.50 (The Outnet) | Capsule Beaded Cape, $67.50 (Simply Be) | Qupid Agatha T-Strap Pumps, $29.99 (JCPenney) | INC International Concepts Tamme Clutch, $59.50 (Macy’s)

For those super fancy holiday party outfits, pile on the texture: lace, tulle, sequins, beading, velvet, … how about a little bit of everything? You really can’t overdo it with formal affairs as long as you keep your colors consistent. And when in doubt, add a cape. It’s always a showstopper.

Among Friends

Topshop Velvet Crop Top, $35 (Nordstrom) | Camouflage Jacquard Pencil Skirt, $95 (Topshop) | ALDO Narcissa Flatform Tassel Loafers, $24.50 (Macy’s)

When you’re with your own peeps (your chosen family) this is really where you can get daring with holiday party outfits that push the fashion envelope. And nothing says “daring” like a crop top! Again, play with textures. Top it off with an edgy shoe like a metallic flatform, and you’ve got Instagram-worthy holiday wear.

Family Lounging

Black Asymmetric Short Sleeve T-shirt, $16.90 (Choies) | Shawl Lapel Knitted Cardigan, $23.50 (ChicNova) | Charter Club Silver-Tone Pearl Bib Necklace, $32.70 (Macy’s) | MOTO Bleach Lucas Boyfriend Jeans, $80 (Topshop) | STEVE MADDEN Tomorrow Leather Block Heel Pumps, $50.06 (Lord & Taylor)

Even though it’s just Mom, Dad, little bro and his brood, you should still step it up a notch when putting together holiday casual outfits. Skip the ripped skinnies, and opt for neat boyfriend jeans, which look killer with a simple metallic shoe. Add visual interest with lace trims and a statement bauble, like a bib necklace.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 15, 2016

3 Fall Menswear Staples to Steal for Yourself

From wearing his oversized sweaters on cold days curled on the couch to sleeping in a pair of his boxers, stealing your man’s clothes is nothing new. But have you ever dared to wear them outside? Men’s clothing for women is a growing trend that anyone can give a whirl. And pay no mind to fit. With a few simple tips, you will find that women’s menswear won’t cover all your assets. If you ever wanted to try your hand at tomboy clothes but didn’t want to commit to buying, here are some fall menswear pieces he will surely love–to lend you! Grab them all with Cash Back at Ebates and don’t forget to look out for a men’s clothing promo code for even more savings.

Slim Fit Jeans

Men’s Slim Fit Colored Jeans, $59 (Lands’ End) | Pure Color Round Neck Knitwear, $31 (ChicNova) | French Connection Maeko Lace Up Oxfords, $116 (Bloomingdale’s)

His slim-fit jeans won’t be completely “skinny” on you but roll the cuffs and they will make a perfect boyfriend jean. Pair with a cropped sweater so you don’t hide your waist and top it off with some slick oxfords to really commit to the menswear look.

Flannel Shirt

Carhartt Plaid Shirt, $89.42 (Farfetch) | A.P.C. Patch-pocket denim skirt, $118 (MATCHESFASHION) | MIA Emelia Thigh High Boot, $98.95 (Nordstrom) | Amazon Bib, $68 (BaubleBar)

It may seem big and bulky but his favorite flannel can instantly transform into an adorable cropped dolman top. Just tie it at the waist! Wear it with your denim skirt and over-the-knee boots then add a statement bib necklace to really make it your own.

Shawl-Collar Cardigan

American Rag Men’s Southwest Shawl-Collar Cardigan, $39.99 (Macy’s) | Black Shiny High Waisted Leggings, $21 (Miss Selfridge) | Guns N Roses Vest, $26 (Miss Selfridge) | Topshop ‘Music’ Ankle Boot, $150 (Nordstrom)

Shawl cardigans are cozy and warm for fall and a men’s style will be long enough to let you rock your favorite leggings without freezing your buns off. Create a rocking look with your favorite band tee and some killer booties.

November 10, 2016

The Best Jeans Under $50 You Can’t Go Without

Winter is just around the corner, and you know what that means: cute winter clothes. Long sleeves, cozy jackets, fluffy boots, and the best part of all — a pair of flexibly fashionable jeans. But finding jeans that look good and feel good for those low temperatures is pricey. How can you get the right price without breaking the bank? These six pairs of jeans are just what you’re looking for — and they’re all under $50.

1. Piper Skinny Jeans, $42 | Nordstrom

Skinny jeans never go out of fashion, and nothing looks cuter under an oversized winter jacket than a pair of petite jeans. These slim jeans are great for your form and even better for your bank account, coming in at $42. Add that to Cash Back coupons from Ebates, and you could afford to splurge on that pricey dream jacket. Better yet, you could stock up on a supply that will last you for several seasons.

2. Zco Destructed Boyfriend Jeans, $12.49 | Tillys

Guy jeans are just more comfortable, aren’t they? But getting hold of a pair that fits you perfectly is quite a task. At Tillys, you can get a pair of boyfriend jeans that hug you in all the right places for $12.49. With stylistic tears and deep pockets, they’re perfect for going out or snuggling up with a hot cup of cocoa.

3. Zip Ankle Skinny Jean Legging, $29.80 | Boden

These ankle jeans come in a soft array of colors that are perfect for professional or business events, though their legging material makes them deceptively comfy. At just $29.80, you can match them up with a light colored blouse and a pair of dark heels for a look that’s modern and professional.

4. Acid Pool Skinny Jeans, $31 |Nasty Gal

Comfortable, durable, and eye-catching, these skinny jeans come with a faded acid wash color that works with any outfit. Pair them with warm boots or a dark-colored sweater and you’ll not only look good, you’ll feel the comfort of thick, form-hugging material. At just $31 with Ebates’ Nasty Gal Coupons and promo codes, you’ll get your winter wardrobe for a crazy low price.

5. Levi’s 535 Super Skinny Jeggings, $39.99 | Bon Ton

Whether you’re hanging out in the cool weather with friends or building a snowman on a whim, nothing answers the call quite like jeggings. Levi’s 535 Jeggings rise up high on your middle and draw attention to a curvy or slim waist. They also give you that waist-hugging feel that’s perfect for a night out. Best matched with a pair of heels and a crop top, you can get your own for only $39.99 with Cash Back at Ebates.

6. Bristol Printed Skinny Ankle Jeans, $35.99 | Macy’s

Daring is the name of the game, with these form-fitting skinny jeans catching attention with their bright floral pattern. But just because they’re patterned doesn’t mean they’re too extreme. The softer color matched with the ultra-soft material makes them perfect with a light colored turtleneck or fashionable jacket, setting off the look without overwhelming it. When you spend just $35.99 on these jeans, you can afford to grab those high-calf winter boots to perfect the look.

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 8, 2016

3 Easy DIY Fantastic Beasts Costumes For Opening Night

70 years before Harry Potter was swept off to Hogwarts, magizooligist Newt Scamander arrives in New York City where trouble is brewing for the wizarding community, threatening to expose them to the general public. To make matters worse, the magical creatures Newt has rescued and stowed carefully away in his dimension-defying suitcase have gotten loose. Can he and a pair of savvy sisters recapture these Fantastic Beasts before they cause too much chaos? You’ll have to see the movie to find out! But before you do, consider showing up to opening night as Newt, Queenie Goldstein, or Porpentina Goldstein in one of these 1920s-inspired DIY costumes. All pieces can easily fit into your fall wardrobe and come with Cash Back at Ebates! Which one has you counting the days until the biggest movie premier of the year?