Why Are Consumers Getting Cheated With Inferior Products That Always Cost More?

This should not happen after six weeks of wear.

Why are prices continually on the rise for practically everything while quality keeps going down?  Is this the new ploy companies are using these days to boost their bottom line since whatever we seem to buy needs replacing much sooner than years before?

Let me illustrate.  My guy bought a pair of inexpensive Champion running shoes from Target. Instead of wearing them right away, he forgot about them for a while and set them aside in their box.  Finally, he decided to wear them.  Everything seemed fine for about six weeks.  

This is the pair of shoes after six weeks of wear.

Driving home, he felt something under his feet like the car’s floor mat slipped and coming up, getting in the way of his gas and brake petals.  However, this was not due to our floor mat since ours does lock in place.   When he finally came home, he noticed the shoes had separated at the sole on one shoe.

I don’t know about you, but I think consumers deserve longer than six weeks of wear before needing to buy another pair so soon.  He called the Champion Company about the substandard quality of those shoes and the bad glue used.  

Instead of showing any regard for the consumer, the company never returned his call as they said they would.  Why would they bother?  They know the consumer has no other choice because this is the extent of the quality that you can expect these days. 

Therefore, it is a good idea to always pack an extra pair of shoes in your car. Yet, shoes are just one example of this substandard quality these days.

Cleaning products are another.  I had bleach that I assumed was in the same plastic container as always, only the ingredients of this new plastic were so weak that it leaked through the bottle all over my laundry room floor.  The bleach was powerful enough to eat through this thin material to make a hole.  Watch your cleaning products carefully because they are not to be trusted.

Makeup is still another.  I remember compacts and palettes used to be made of plastic, not cardboard and come with brushes and sponge tipped applicators.  Of course, those tools were not the best, but they were inside and handy. 

I can go on and on about the dropping quality of things we buy today, which is really sad when you think about it.  Profit is one thing, but making products that the companies manufacture deliberately with cheaper materials just to keep us buying is wrong.  Did you have any experiences like this lately?

How to Take Scuff Marks Off Your Patent Leather Shoes to Restore Their Beauty!

This post can help keep those gorgeous new shoes as beautiful as possible.

Don’t you hate when you get new patent leather shoes and suddenly scuff them?  Instead of living with the scuff mark, there are some ways to clean it off that work so well that you won’t ever know you had one.

Here’s what is working for me for effectively getting rid of scuffs.  You get some toothpaste (not the gel type but the white paste) and spread a dab of it on the mark.  Take a clean cloth and gently rub until it comes off. This even works for patent leather handbags.

You can try some petroleum jelly on your shoes.  This can also budge the scuff off.

My one neighbor swears how well nail polish remover can clean off a scuff.  She warns only to use very little and aim it directly over the problem.  I, however, have not tried this technique yet so I can’t vouch for how well it handled the problem personally.

New Shoes Fix to Save You From Slipping!

This shoe fix will only take a minute or two and give you more traction when walking on carpet.

I love getting new shoes, but sometimes they can be tricky when you’re walking on carpet.  If you also noticed how slippery they can be and want to save yourself from possibly slipping when your feet hit that rug, then I have a new shoe fix.

Before wearing a new pair, I take a pair of scissors to the bottoms of the shoes first.  What I like to do is run the scissors over the soles and scratch the bottoms in a crisscross design a few times  because it helps with traction.

I hope that you keep this new shoe care tip in mind because it is a good way to break those shoes in instead of risking a fall.

The Best Way to Preserve the Beauty of Your Leather Shoes!

Consider the material before being hasty with storage.

To satisfy our fascination for beautiful shoes, we all probably have more pairs than we can count.  The next time, you plan to wear and then retire a particular leather shoe or dressy, short boot for storage, there is one thing that you need to know if you plan on keeping them in good condition.

Avoid the urge to polish them before storing.  The reason that you shouldn’t polish leather shoes first is because the wax suffocates the leather from breathing as it should.

You’re better off just taking a soft cloth and dusting them off instead.

You might also want to read how to care for those winter leather boots and shoes after the salt hits when walking through the snow. 

How to Care for Leather Boots and Shoes After Walking Through Snow and Salt!

Give your boots some tender loving care and they will stay beautiful longer!

This winter weather can hurt our skin but also can extend to our leather boots and shoes.  If you were wondering how to clean those white spots left behind on your boots and shoes after walking through the snow and salt, then here’s how to quickly clean them.

Take a soft, clean cloth and wipe your boots or shoes with white vinegar.  Within seconds, the white residue will be gone without harming the leather.

Black scuff marks, on the other hand, call for a different solution.  My suggestion is dunking a soft cloth in water, then some baking soda or you can make a paste.  As gently as possible, you rub the mark and it should lift.  Clean your work with another clean, damp cloth and dry.

Another thing I want to pass on to help wet boots keep their shape is by stuffing the inside with rolled up newspaper while you let them dry.  This helps minimize the leather wrinkling, especially for those buttery soft leathers.

Also, make sure never to dry those wet boots or shoes near the radiator or heating duct.  This can have damaging effects like causing the leather to crack or you might shrink the skin.  

Further protect the leather with a waterproofing product.  Some of the commercial ones that I tried, I wasn’t thrilled with the results.  What I recommend that does a wonderful job and is safe for leather is a bit of floor wax to waterproof or some petroleum jelly, which also is a great leather conditioner to keep the grain from drying out.  

Winter is long and brutal, but these few tips can safeguard your leather investment! 

Happiness Is Comfy Feet and Total Bliss Is California Footwear Company's Beach/Spa Sandals and VIP Summer Sale (Review)

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

California Footwear Co

Like a lot of women, I have a passion for shoes.  When I find a great pair like the ones below, I am in my element.  I am especially excited about saving on shoes I need like the Del Mar White Grey Floral sandals I received from California Footwear Company, which is one of the eight models currently on sale.

California Footwear Company Del Mar White Grey Floral sandal

I hate anything wedged between my toes when walking, which was just as important as pretty style when I made my selection.  These comfortable sandals also have lightweight ergonomic construction with reflexology bubbles designed to cushion feet as you step.  

You don't have to worry about tipping the scales at the airport when weighing your bag with a pair inside for vacation.  So if you're getting ready to travel, I really recommend checking out this sale because from now until June 5, the company is slashing prices on last year's popular beach sandals for up to 60% off.

Here's how the VIP Summer Sale works on those featured eight models.   Buy one pair of their sale Beach/Spa sandals and save 30%, two pairs 45% and three or more pairs are 60% off!  (Savings for that sale price show up in your shopping cart). 

Even if you're homebound and not planning any vacation, the tootsies will appreciate the open exposure being cradled and gently massaged in these sandals so take advantage of this sale while it lasts.  Remember June 5, 2013 is the date this sale ends!

California Footwear Company Del Mar sandals feature ergonomic construction.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided solely to facilitate this review.*

Fila Skele-Toes Lite Running Sneakers Review and Giveaway!--Ends March 28, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Fila Skele-Toes Lite Running Sneakers

When I sent a pair of Fila's Skele-Toes Lite running sneakers, I didn't know what to think of their three + two in one toe slots at first.  However, the purpose of this particular lightweight design is for a barefoot feel so you can move better when you run.

Fitting in these sneakers does take a few attempts to get used to working the toes into the proper places.  Nonetheless, you can master this small challenge quickly enough.  Once your feet are cozy inside and you're ready to test them for a run, you'll appreciate how practically weightless these sneakers are to make you move faster than normal. 

At  the same time, the air mesh of those synthetic uppers cool your sock less feet, which came in handy after a brisk jaunt. You can buy socks to wear with these Skele-Toes Lite sneakers.  But I personally liked the naked foot feel for that airy freedom effect.

These sneakers also have an ultra-flexible cushioned superaction injection EVA midsoles, minimal ever-grind rubber outsole inserts for that lightweight traction and durability, bungee lace for custom fit with added lacelock for extra security, and an integrated pulltab at the heel for ease of entry. The Skele-Toes Lite sneakers are available exclusively at Dick's Sporting Goods for $75.

If you hate wearing shoes and love the feeling of walking barefoot, I think you would really love the feel of these sneakers.  I'm saving mine for running because you would be shocked at the speed you will gain wearing them.

Thanks to Fila-USA, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States wins a pair of women's Skele-Toes Amp running sneakers ($70 value)!  This is the sister shoe of the Skele-Toes Lite model with the same features.


Both Are Mandatory To Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then tell me the name you follow by and INCLUDE your EMAIL address in the comment.

2. Go to Fila-USA and tell me which other product you would love to try or something you learned from their site in another comment.

Extra Entries:

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--for 2 extra entries (leave two separate comments)

Tweet Shape Up! #Win #RunningSneakers @FilaToning  #Giveaway  @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/xvEPwQ 
Ends 3/28 (can be done daily)--1 extra entry per day in another comment

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Share Fila on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof) 

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Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States.  No PO Boxes just USA-based street addresses. Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends March 28, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.  

Vince Camuto Perfume Review and Giveaway! (3 Winners!)--Ends March 9, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**



Vince Camuto Perfume

Just as chic and sophisticated as his creations, the signature scent from designer, Vince Camuto and Parlux Fragrances, is a perfume of timeless elegance and style for today's woman.  This is a luxurious, polished floral chypre scent crafted by perfumer, Steve DeMarcado that is a compelling and complex blend of femininity.  

The top notes of Vince Camuto start out spicy and sweet with intoxicating notes of rum absolute and osmanthus nectar.  As the fragrance further develops, the Bulgarian rose and night-blooming jasmine add romance and opulent richness.  Yet, there is a touch of the exotic to the glamour.  Notes of leather weave through this perfume as well like a lover's protective embrace to give it strength and comforting warmth.  Once the vanilla absolute, patchouli, amber and skin musk become apparent, the scent mellows into one of soft seduction and romance.

The beautiful glass bottle adored with red ribbon itself is a treasure.  From the stylish cap sporting the logo to the gold of the chain, you feel privileged just touching it. 

At the same time, you will feel incredible once using Vince Camuto--as if you're wearing the latest style to be envied!  This is how elegantly attired the scent makes me feel and know you would love to have that feeling too.  Do look for this new perfume!

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  No money was exchanged.  All I received was free product to facilitate this review.*

Thanks to Vince Camuto, three lucky Nuts 4 Stuff readers in the United States win a 3.4 fl. oz. bottle of Vince Camuto Eau de Parfum Spray ($78)!

Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then tell me the name you follow me by in a comment along with your email!

2. Go to Vince Camuto and tell me what makes this perfume so appealing or something you learned from the site in another comment.

Extra Entries:

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--1 extra entry

Tweet  Smell Rich!  #Win #VinceCamutoPerfume (3 Winners) @VC_Stylist #Giveaway @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/zkUk7I Ends 3/09 (can be done daily)--1 extra entry per day in another comment

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Share Vince Camuto on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me proof)

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Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States.  No PO boxes just USA-based street addresses.  Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends March 9, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.  

Lindsay Phillips Shoes Review and Giveaway!--Ends December 5, 2011

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.** 

Isabel Kitten Heels

All women know how important shoes are for creating a great look.  What's even nicer is if you can have one pair that you can change with a snap accessory so that it looks like a completely different pair like the one I was sent from Lindsay Phillips for this review and giveaway.

I received the cutest pair of black patent leather Isabel Kitten Heel Shoes.  The company was also kind enough to include a Kiara snap on accessory so I can switch the look of those shoes if I was so inclined.  The bow is actually black, but photographed gray.   

Kira snap

Their shoes run small so I ordered a pair one half size larger than I normally take, which is recommended.  I was keeping my fingers crossed to see how they would fit.  Honestly, I was so pleased because they fit perfectly and were comfortable.  Sometimes, you know how hard it is shopping for shoes in person and finding a pair your feet feel good in without trying them on first in is even more amazing. 

The company has so many exciting styles and design possibilities with their snap on accessories that you will want them all once you check out their snap shoes, switch flops,  jelly sandals, switch flops and ballet flats for kids, beautiful bags, gorgeous lightweight scarves, and chunky knit scarves.

Trust me, if you are looking for some comfy, but stylish shoes for the holidays or to give as gifts, then do head over to Lindsay Phillips.  You'll simply flip over what they have to offer and want to own them all.  But since this is the Christmas season, be generous and order an extra pair or several as gifts!  However, do remember to order one half size larger than you normally wear.

Thanks to Lindsay Phillips, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States or Canada wins a pair of their Liz Bronze Ballet Flats with an extra set of Snaps (a $64 value)!

Liz Bronze Ballet Flats

Both Are Mandatory To Enter: 

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then tell me the name you follow me by in a comment and email (if not in your profile)--in a comment.

2. Go to Lindsay Phillips and tell me what other style shoe, bag, or scarf you also would love to try or something else you learned from their website and tell me which one in another comment.

 
Extra Entries:

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--for 2 extra entries (leave two separate comments)

Tweet #Win Lindsay Phillips #Shoes #Giveaway @SwitchFlops via @Nuts4Stuff  http://nuts4stuff.blogspot.com/2011/11/lindsay-phillips-shoes-review-and.html  Ends 12/05 (can be done daily)--1 extra entry per day in another comment

"Like" Lindsay Phillips on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Share Lindsay Phillips on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof)

Sign up for the Lindsay Phillips newsletter--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow the company's blog--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Check out the Lindsay Phillip video on YouTube and tell me something you learned--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow Lindsay Phillips on Twitter--2 extra entries  to leave in two separate comments

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List this giveaway on any giveaway site just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--3 extra entries (leave three separate comments and tell me where in each comment)

Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link to the post--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where in each comment)

Grab my Nuts 4 Stuff button and paste it in your sidebar--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where you left it in each comment)

Add Nuts 4 Stuff to your blogroll  (using my URL) with a link back to me (comment where you left it for 2 more extra entries to leave in two separate comments)

Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States and Canada.  Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification.  

This giveaway ends December 5, 2011 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.
 

Need a Cheap Leather Conditioner?

You can condition all leathers except the buttery soft variety what you learn here.

Take a tiny bit of petroleum jelly on a soft cloth and rub on your clean leather shoes that you were about to polish.  Do not use this method on suede.  Allow the petroleum jelly to soak in a bit before wiping away with another clean cloth.  Once you try this thrifty tip, you'll be just as nuts about how it works to condition leather as I am.

Petroleum jelly also works well on a leather purse except not on any of the super-soft leathers of expensive bags.  Thicker handbag leather, more on the order of shoe leather that takes to shine, will work.  Conditioning with petroleum jelly can save an aged bag from cracking. Those buttery soft leathers should be treated more carefully though with recommended leather cleaners.

If you follow this simple tip, you will be surprised at how supple your older bag or shoes will be again.   You'll save your cherished older bag from getting those fine cracks in the leather. You may even skip the shoe polish for a while longer!