It’s no secret that most collegiettes are on a tight budget, especially for us living in Beantown (hello, wicked expensive rent!). While our part-time jobs don’t always give us enough cash to shop at our favorite stores in Copley, there’s no excuse that we can’t be trendy on a budget.
With a little help from from our Social Media and PR Chair, Colleen McCarthy, I’m going to show you how to grab a cute outfit while still having enough money left over for that Starbucks you need before heading to class.
When I saw Colleen wearing this outfit I knew she was the perfect person for this week’s Sidewalk Catwalk, and when she told me how much she paid for the entirety of the outfit, I was floored.
Her bloused top with a collar is soft and feminine, but her spiked necklace and green overshirt gives the outfit a much edgier look. One of my favorite things about her outfit is the blouse tucked into her jeans. Tucking in our shirts seems like a thing of the past, but with a shirt like this it makes the look more polished and put-together. By tucking in her shirt, you have a much better view of her belt, which compliments the shirt and gives a better waistline.
Her oxford shoes are a mix of old-school and fashion forward. These shoes can give your look a totally new feeling. If you’re getting tired of riding boots and flats, these are your best option.
Colleen spent around $72 for her outfit. Her secret? Consignment shops! Pieces from this outfit (believe it or not) were purchased from stores like Goodwill. Some of her clothes purchased there were designer, for a lot less.
“My style is, as you can see, cheap but chic. I like to make the most of what I have and try to keep things trendy but not spend a fortune,” said Colleen.
These stores are a collegiettes best friend. Luckily, in Boston, on Newbury St. alone, there are 3 stores called “Second Time Around” where you can find your fave designers for up to 50% off! So the next time you’re feeling an urge to splurge, Google your closest Goodwill or consignment shop and get a little creative with your outfits without hurting your wallet!
Here is Colleen’s look, head-to-toe: blouse – T.J.Maxx, $12; necklace – consignment shop, $6; overshirt – Express purchased at Goodwill, $4; jeans – Express, $40; oxford shoes – Goodwill, $5; belt – H&M, $5.