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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at George Mason University chapter.

Collegiettes, we are notorious for “having nothing to wear”, but maybe we really don’t. Speaking for myself, I haven’t gone actual clothes shopping since I was in high school because my classes have demanded so much of my time and money. I also struggle with finding stores that fit my style along with others when I feel like dabbling around. I’ve gathered the top five stores that fit both categories of affordable and versatile styles. The best part? They’re all conveniently located at Fair Oaks Mall, only 11 minutes away from Mason.

1. Express

Let’s face it collegiettes, we’re in college and that means we’re interning and working when we’re not doing homework. Now that wearing yoga pants and sweatshirts are no longer an option to wear, it’s time to start dressing more grown-up. That doesn’t mean we have to start wearing stuffy outfits that make us feel boring. Instead try shopping for your work clothes at Express, where they have many affordable options with styles ranging from skirts, dresses, jumpsuits, and many more options. You really can’t go wrong here!

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2. Target

What’s there not to love about Target? They have literally everything we need (and things we really don’t but can’t help ourselves) to pick from. One thing, in particular, they excel at is cute ‘bumming it’ clothes. They have the softest yoga pants starting at $7 and insanely comfy sweatshirts starting at $6 and the best part? So ridiculously cheap that even us collegiettes can afford.

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3. Papaya

If you’re looking for a casual cute school look that’s also comfortable, I suggest Papaya. They keep up with today’s trends and have something for everyone’s taste. Not only that, but they are very affordable and often switch out their inventory, which is a huge plus compared to other stores that more often than not keep the same stuff all season long.

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4. Forever 21

The great thing about Forever 21 is that they have different styles that fit every collegiettes idea of nightlife attire. These options include Boho, Edgy, Sexy, or Femme. Perfect for any occasion whether its for date night or a night out with the girls, everyone has something affordable to choose from. 

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5. Francesca’s 

Francesca’s is bohemian heaven! Everything is so cute and vintage. They have a wide variety of dresses, tops, pants, and accessories that you would be overpriced anywhere else. It’s such a treat to go there because you get to look through at all of the unique pieces and discover one-of-a-kind items.

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Despite what your style or budget is, all these stores are perfect places for you to begin to update your wardrobe back up to your current style. Don’t be afraid to try new styles or places, you never know what may become your next favorite store!

Mckenzie Herndon

George Mason University '21

McKenzie is a sophomore at George Mason University and is planning on graduating with a degree in English with a concentration in literature. She loves the outdoors, her fur babies, and fueling her caffeine addiction. When she's not reading/writing in her spare time, she likes watching tv and hanging out with friends.
George Mason Contributor (GMU)

George Mason University '50

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