These days, everyone is feeling the tighter economy in one way or another and curbing their spending habits. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the finer things of life.

“You can still treat yourself without going into debt,” says Migdalia Rivera, founder of the blog LatinaOnAMission.com, which offers tips for living chic on the cheap. “It’s all about making the most of free or inexpensive resources around you.” Here, Rivera shares some insights on living it up without spending a lot.

1. Be Friends with Your Money
   Before you spend it, build a good relationship with your money. “The first step to being financially secure is being financially smart,” says Rivera. “Educate yourself on how to save and get rid of debt.” Major banks occasionally hold free seminars on money management at local branches or online via webinars and webcasts. Inquire about them at your branch or check your bank’s website.

2. Have a Beauty-full Day
   Beauty schools, spas and salons often have days when they offer lower rates on services. “You can come across specials and deals like a mani/pedi and mini foot massage, all for about $30,” says Rivera. Check websites for promotions or stop by in person to enquire.

3. Soak in Some Culture
   “City museums have wonderful activities for all ages,” says Rivera. “Best of all, museum admissions are suggested -- meaning you can pay what you can afford.” Movie screenings are also great because you get to see the latest movie before it’s out and it’s free! Search online for local film previews.

Photo: Corbis Images

Spring is bursting on the scene in styles that look like they were taken from the most fashionable Latina’s closet. We spoke to Davis Carrasquillo, the New York City-based creative director and fashion editor of 1fashionproductions  to get our top picks of the bold, the ultra-feminine and the sexy staples that came from the runway.

Citrus
Citrus colors are the powerhouse trend, a favorite of ours because it makes bronzed skin look even more beautiful. The purest way to wear this trend is with a dress, like Selena Gomez does. For a budget-conscious option, try a blouse or simple tank in a saturated hue to put a pop of color in your look.

Bangles
Bracelets are accessory must-haves for lots of Latinas, and as Eva Longoria shows, bangles are back in a big way. “Use lots of different tones and textures -- they don’t have to match,” advises Carrasquillo.

’70s-inspired
No need to go over-the-top with frosty eyeshadow and frizzy hair. But if you are in the mood to really embrace a spring trend, then get yourself into some ’70s-inspired clothes, like one-sleeved tops and dresses. Jennifer Lopez gives us a great update with this beautiful dress that also brings in an additional seasonal trend: animal prints.

Ruffles
Ruffles are back on the scene, not just because of the flirty, youthful flare, but because now they are being styled in a grown, sexy way. You can go all-out like America Ferrara with her cape sleeves, or select a key piece, such as a skirt, to experiment with this look. Soft ruffles are more forgiving and flattering.

Shorts
Break out the heels and platform sandals if you are brave enough to try the shorts trend. The styles can range from super-short and casual, a lá Cameron Diaz, or longer and tailored for a work-appropriate look.

Patterns
These were also reigning the runway, but in softer chiffon fabrics that are easier to wear. Chiffon dresses are one option, says Carrasquillo, but even using a scarf can update your look.

Asking for a promotion can be difficult in a recovering economy. But if you’re skilled at what you do, consider persuading the powers-that-be that you’re ready for your next challenge with these nine work secrets.

1. Speak directly with your boss about your career ambitions. “Working late and putting in the extra efforts in hopes of being rewarded rarely yields desired results,” says Natalie Gahrmann, a professional coach and author. “It’s a passive approach.”

2. Ask for specific things you need to do to earn an opportunity.

3. Find a mentor or peer to help you become visible. “An advocate in a higher rank can pull you in the direction you want,” says Gahrmann.

4. Be a leader. Help your co-workers with work that’s relevant to the position you want. “It’s an opportunity to practice the skills, abilities and potential you want to develop,” says Gahrmann

5. Toot your own horn. “Creating a strong personal brand helps others notice your accomplishments and contributions.”

6. Ask for feedback and accept constructive criticism.

7. Be a team player. “It’s a great way to earn people’s trust.” Never sabotage or disparage others.

8. Dress and act as if you already have the position you want, even if you have to splurge on a few executive-quality tacones. It’s worth it!

9. “Don’t be irreplaceable,” says Gahrmann. Instead, have a succession plan in place. Keep a list of associates who can replace you, and make a training plan for a quick and smooth transition.

Your co-worker always looks fabulosa in her cocktail dress, no matter what she weighs. It’s not that she has a perfect shape; she simply knows how to dress for her body type. Figure out your type here, and find a dress style that will make you feel glamorous and beautiful on your big night out.

Hourglass Shape: Considered to be the most ideal body type, the hourglass shape boasts breast and hip measurements that are almost identical.

Dress: Although the hourglass’ best feature is her waist, don’t overemphasize it with a skin-tight slinky number, advises Barbosa. Instead, choose a flowy look and complete it with a belt to show off your small waist.

Pear or Spoon Shape: The pear shape is one of the most common body types -- especially for Latinas -- and features a more bountiful booty. 

Dress: Choose a flattering empire cut that balances your bounty by featuring your upper half.

Apple Shape: Slightly bigger around the tummy, you’re lucky because you have skinny arms and legs, making it easy to camouflage your trouble spots.

Dress: It’s all about the structured look for you. A shift’s vertical lines will create a longer, leaner look.

Tube (Ruler) Shape: Often called “the boy shape,” the tube has minimal curves and is straight up and down.

Dress: Try a wrap or another style that is cinched or gathered at the waist to help create an hourglass figure.

Regardless of body type, you should ultimately shop for clothing that makes you feel beautiful. And remember to embrace your curves. After all, accepting (and loving!) your body is the first step in selecting clothes that will consistently fit and flatter.

Photo: @iStockphoto.com/quavondo

From Mami’s unreturned phone calls to the pileup of work emails, there’s always someone demanding your best attention now and your finest response yesterday. But what’s the first thing to get shoved to the side? Ever-important “me” time.

“I always tell people to picture their life like a pie,” says Lauri Burns, founder of The Teen Project, a nonprofit that helps homeless and foster teens create balanced, healthy lives. That pie should include everything: romance, la espiritualidad, family, work, leisure and hermana time. “The goal is to nourish the multiple parts of your life consistently in order to feel joyous and confident.”

According to Natalie Gahrmann, a women’s leadership coach, we have to prioritize what we value most, and then make choices to support those decisions. Here’s how to bring balance and confidence to your daily life:

1. Identify Priorities “Determine what’s most important to you and align yourself with those areas of your life,” says Gahrmann. Look for the things that give you a feeling of wholeness and satisfaction, such as maintaining your Latina identity or searching for your true calling.
 
2. Get Organized “A balanced life involves planning and prioritizing my daily tasks,” says Cynthia Warden, a self-employed publicist. Each night, write down your activities and priorities for the next day. Make sure to plan for personal time-outs.
 
3. Build a Support Network Our first reaction is often to figure things out on our own. But, says Gahrmann, we can keep stress in check by asking an amiga, a colleague or even a tía for help with projects.