As a college student with a spending issue — I recently diagnosed myself — I find it challenging to have a killer wardrobe without going broke. While many innovative outfits can be attributed to styling, it’s time to get creative about where we shop. Stores like T.J. Maxx, Nordstrom Rack, Loehmann’s, and Marshalls offer super chic designer clothes for a fraction of the original price!
Her Campus got the chance to get the inside scoop on discount shopping at two of our favorite stores: T.J. Maxx and Marshalls.
We love these stores because T.J. Maxx and Marshalls both have sections where shoppers can purchase discounted trendy pieces. T.J. Maxx’s Runway section brings premier designers to fashionistas on a budget. Identified by their purple tags, Runway carries brands like Tibi, Rag & Bone, Alice & Olivia, and even Alexander McQueen. “Our discounts are always about 60 percent,” says Lia LoBello, Account Supervisor for T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. So basically, Runway is a fashion sanctuary.
While everyone is gushing over Missoni’s Target collection, you could purchase REAL Missoni items at T.J. Maxx. Let’s not forget Marshalls’ selection of Diane von Furstenberg shoes. Um, what? Amazing.
Stores like these are perfect places to find some wardrobe staples, just in case you don’t consider Alexander McQueen to be a staple:
The Must Haves: Three things that LoBello and Sonya Cosentini, a spokesperson for T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, stress investing in are a great pair of jeans, an awesome bag, and a comfortable pair of flats. Don’t be wary when it comes to spending more money on these things: you’ll use these pieces over and over again, especially in college!
Class Apparel: This may come as a surprise to some, but there are ways to dress chic and comfortable. “You don’t have to dress down to go to school. Dresses, especially in warmer weather, are a great way to be comfortable,” says Cosentini. “You can put on a blazer, that’s not more effort than putting on some pajama pants,” adds LoBello.
A Little Bit of Denim Goes a Long, Long Way: While a lot of people think of jeans as an effortless staple, they can be so chic and versatile. Not only are denim — specifically flared denim — on trend this season, but they are the perfect “day-to-night” piece. “For a party, denim is classy and easy. You can do a great dressed up top with a pair of pumps or even flats,” says Cosentini.
Work Wear: Stores like T.J. Maxx and Marshalls are the perfect places to find more “office friendly” clothes. With the clean silhouettes and classy hemlines seen in suits, dresses, and skirts, you’ll be the chicest girl at the water cooler.
But what if you don’t have a T.J. Maxx or Marshalls around you? Fear not, collegiettes™, there are so many ways to look fabulous while watching what you spend. You can find some incredible pieces at vintage and thrift stores, plus at other discount spots like Loehmann’s, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th , and Last Call by Neiman Marcus! Just remember that it doesn’t matter how much you spend on an outfit, but how fabulous it looks.