The fact that cup of noodles has become synonymous with college students is the best way I can explain the financial undertaking that is college. From tuition, to housing, to food costs, the last thing any student wants to splurge on is expensive clothing. I know from personal experience, that staying up to date with the latest trends can take a serious toll on your wallet. These three outfit ideas will hopefully help keep your closet up to date, without breaking your bank.
Outfit #1 One and Done
I love dresses for the simple fact that once you put one on, you instantly have a whole outfit that looks presentable and seems like it took a lot of effort, when in reality, it took the same amount as putting a t-shirt on. Dresses also help cut down on costs because only one item is needed to construct the outfit. Also, dresses are extremely versatile, and can be used for multiple occasions from going to class to going out, significantly reducing the total number of outfits you need to buy.
Burlington Coat Factory:Shoes
I choose this dress, because it is extremely versatile in that it can be worn to class, or out on the weekend. Also, the color can transition easily from summer to fall, allowing for its use in multiple seasons. I choose the black boots because they are a staple piece that can be worn with everything from jeans, to dresses, to rompers. The black color allows it to match with a majority of outfits, allowing you to get increased use out of them.
Outfit #2 Knock offs
When new trends arise, not is only a matter of time when retailers begin producing look a like items. More often than not, a very similar team can be found in most stores. For example, Birkenstocks have made a resurgence with the past season. A pair of Birkenstocks can cost anywhere from $90 to $100. However I was able to obtain this pair from target for only $22.99. The pair is comparable aesthetically to the real thing, but at a fraction of the cost. Target has been know for these dupes, such as their Keds style sneakers, and Adidas white sneaker look a likes.
Target: shoes
H&M:Jeans
H&M:Sweater
H&M:T-shirt
Again, this outfit is comprised of pieces, that can easily be paired with existing items in your closet to build endless outfits. This nice thing about jeans, plain t-shirts and cardigans is they can all be paired with a existing statement piece and completely alter the look of the outfit. Keeping a few good basic pieces in your closet can help build new outfits, without spending too much money on trendy pieces that can go out of style quickly.
Outfit #3 Student Splurge
Every once and a while there might be that one piece you are dying to have, and you know you may not find it anywhere else. By saving up for these items, you are less likely to make impulsive buys, and purchase expensive items you regret buying later on. However, sometimes you just have to “treat yo self.” Keeping on a tight budget allows you to save up for what really matters, and if a new outfit can help you feel confident and rejuvenated, then it is money well spent. A lot of higher priced retailers offer discounts to students. Some of my favorites include ASOS, which offer 10% off and Madewell, which offers 15% to students.
ASOS: Pants
ASOS: Shirt
Madewell: Shoes
An item is worth a splurge, if it can be used for multiple occasions, such as these pants which can lean on with the more business or the more casual side. A item may also be worth a splurge if it is unique, and you don’t think you will be able to find it elsewhere. Finally, a item is worth a splurge if it is a reward for all the hardworking and dedication you are putting into your studies, aka a post midterm treat!
Overall, shopping on a college budget can be easily done by buying items that are versatile and can be used for more than one occasion, shopping at stores with lower prices, like H&M or Forever21, and finally taking advantage of student discounts provided by retailers, as well adsaving up for the bigger pieces down the road!
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