We know it’s important for college students to live on a budget, so when our reader, Jenn, asked us where she could find websites to shop for stylish clothes that are not too expensive, we were inspired to share our bargain-hunting abilities with all of our readers! After all, who wants to brag about expensive labels when you can enjoy the fact that you saved tons of cash on all of your new outfits? Keep reading for our money-saving tips.
Tip #1: Be open-minded. Just because a shop isn’t necessarily a fashion hot spot, doesn’t mean you should rule it out. I’ve found inexpensive hidden gems at stores like Walmart and Costco. The key is to keep your eyes peeled for anything you might not have considered before!
Check out the Target Website for more designs by Jason Wu!
Tip #2: Collaborations can be amazing. I can’t help it, I’m obsessed with Jason Wu for Target! Why, you ask? It combines the delicate craftsmanship of his designer label with the more budget-friendly prices of Target. Tons of less expensive stores have been teaming up with big-name designers and the outcome has been a magical flurry of inexpensive fabulous-ness. Versace teamed up with H&M, Karl Lagerfeld went to work with Macy’s, and the list goes on and on.
MSNBC even discussed how two Italian designers were so inspired by the Franklin & Marshall sweat shirt they came across that they launched a high-end label featuring the school’s logo! However, you can save yourself a $100 by purchasing clothes featuring the logo from Barnes & Noble at a fraction of the cost. It’s all about doing your research.
Tip #3: Check discount websites. Nowadays, there are tons of websites that offer designer clothing at discounted prices. Sites like Gilt and Shop It To Me offer designer brands at 40-70% off of what they normally cost. Other web pages, including 599 Fashion, sell clothing for well-below retail prices.
Tip #4: Think twice before buying. The important thing to remember here is just because the clothes are less expensive than usual, doesn’t mean you should be buying every item you see. If you’re on the fence about making a purchase, wait a week or two and see if you still want it. If your enthusiasm has died down the next time around, refrain from buying the item. You’ll save time and money.
Forever21.com lets you stay within your budget...easily!
Tip #5: Sale Sale Sale! Whenever I get the urge to shop, I immediately check the SALE page on my favorite sites. Some stores, like Forever 21, DHstyles, and GoJane, regularly update their sale pages and offer excellent deals. Campus bookstores (like Barnes & Noble!) also offer sale items regularly, so don’t hesitate to check for promotions or items on clearance. If you really need a new sweatshirt, for instance, be sure to browse a few sale pages first – you’ll be surprised with what you can find.
Tip #6: Learn to make quick fixes. Have you ever ripped a hole in a pair of pants or shirt and felt like you had to go buy a new one? Now is the time to grab a needle and thread! Learning to make small repairs will extend the life of your clothes and will save you money you would have spent on replacements.
What’s better than watching both your closet and your wallet expand? Remember our tips next time you go shopping and don’t forget to share your own with us!
