Being a fashionista in college doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on your wardrobe. With creativity and smart shopping strategies, you can look stylish while staying within your budget. Here are some budget-friendly fashion hacks to keep you looking fabulous without emptying your wallet.
1. Go Thrifting
Thrift stores, vintage shops, and secondhand apps like Poshmark or Depop are great for affordable and unique fashion pieces. You can find trendy, high-quality items at a fraction of retail prices. Thrifting has become a relevant trend today, so finding pieces might be a little hard with the competition. However, I believe that’s what makes it so much fun. The thrill of finding new wardrobe pieces on a budget is so exciting. Not only are these thrifting platforms a good way to get affordable clothing, but they are also a good way to make money. Simply listing some items you want to get rid of and shipping them to your buyer, you can make money to purchase clothing you want.
2. Stay basic
Invest in versatile basics like neutral tops, classic denim, and simple jackets. These pieces can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple stylish outfits without needing an overflowing closet. When purchasing these basics, make sure they’re good quality. Look for cotton, wool, and even silk pieces. Not only do they look better, but they also last longer. This will keep you from the constant repurchasing of items. Now, I will say these are pieces you have to invest in, but it’s so worth it. As Vivienne Westwood once said,“Buy less, choose well.”
3. DIY Fashion
Get creative with your old clothes by upcycling them! If you get tired of some old clothing in your closet, you can easily upgrade it. Turn an oversized tee into a crop top, distress your old jeans, or add patches and embroidery to your jackets for a personalized touch. People do this all the time for college sports games, concerts, and other events. If you’re the type of person who builds connections to their clothing piece, this is great for you!
4. Off-season sales
Take advantage of end-of-season sales to get great deals on clothing. Don’t worry about what’s trendy or in style; just be you. As we all know, “Trendy is the last stage before tacky.” according to Karl Lagerfeld. You can stock up on winter coats in spring or summer dresses in fall to save money. This is also a good outlet to purchase from if you want to upcycle other pieces of clothing. Depending on where you go, some items might not be of the best quality, so don’t just make the ‘just because’ purchases.
5. Accessorize
Accessories can completely change the vibe of an outfit. Invest in stylish yet affordable accessories like scarves, belts, and statement jewelry to elevate your look without spending much. Make sure to invest in good quality accessories as well to avoid constant repurchasing. If you ever feel like your basic clean girl outfit is too basic, this is a great way to make yourself stand out.
6. Follow Budget Fashion Bloggers
Social media is filled with influencers who specialize in budget fashion. You can follow them for outfit ideas, styling tips, and insider tricks on where to shop affordably. By incorporating these budget-friendly fashion hacks, you can maintain a stylish wardrobe while keeping your finances in check. Looking fashionable doesn’t have to cost a fortune; it just takes a little strategy and creativity!