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Lady holding several shopping bags in both of her hands
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Illinois | Style > Fashion

Where I’m Shopping for Spring Break

Kate Doherty Student Contributor, University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Need some guidance on where to look for Spring Break outfits? Tired of hearing about the same old websites? On a strict budget? Look no further.

Spring Break is around the corner and somehow my wardrobe feels more unprepared than I do. If you’re like me and your broke college-student self doesn’t have the means to spend hundreds of dollars on new outfits, but you also try to shy away from fast-fashion sites like Shein, you’re in the right place. This year, I plan on shopping at more affordable (and sustainable) places, buying versatile basics to mix and match, and styling myself to the tens—even if I’m not paying the tens. Here are some places I’m getting my outfits from this Spring Break: 

Emily in Paris/Netflix

Sea Molly

One of my favorite places to get affordable, yet satisfactory bathing suits is on Sea Molly. Sea Molly is an eco-conscious swimwear brand that uses recycled fabrics in their bikini collections. With thousands of colors, sizes and styles, it is easy to find a cute suit for under 40 dollars every time. As opposed to other swimwear websites—like Triangl or Kulani Kinis—most Sea Molly items have the tops and bottoms of the swimsuit priced together, so you don’t have to pay separately for each item. I find this feature key in my swimsuit search, as it creates a less strenuous shopping experience and is far more affordable. Experiences with Sea Molly are reported to be trouble-free, and the website is always easy to contact in the case of returns, exchanges, or refunds. A cute, sustainable, well-fitting bikini, at a good price, with easy returns? Yes, please! 

woman wading into ocean in bikini
Photo by Lucas Allmann from Pexels

Isabelle’s Cabinet

From spending the day shopping to a night out on the town, a dress from Isabelle’s Cabinet brings all the spring vibes needed to seamlessly move from day to night on vacation. Isabelle’s Cabinet, an online brand that fosters “California’s beach-friendly vibes” with a chic European charm does vacation wear the right way, and has so many fun and eccentric dresses to shop from. Isabelle’s Cabinet has mini-dresses, two piece sets and maxi dresses all for 60-70 dollars that can be dressed up or down, no matter the destination. Every item is good quality, eco-friendly, and sure to make heads turn. This spring break, I plan on getting a piece or two from Isabelle’s Cabinet to make for the perfect seaside attire—and ones that I’ll be rewearing all season long! 

Tiger Mist

But for some (AKA me), Spring Break doesn’t come with a day-by-day itinerary. It’s hard to predict how the day will be spent, and even harder to try and plan outfits according to unannounced plans. In my years of spring break shopping experience, I have found that Tiger Mist is filled with versatile vacation staples, starting from just 10 dollars. Backless tops, long skirts, and vogueish accessories on the Tiger Mist website all make the perfect Spring Break fits—especially for the longer days and nights out. Additionally, Tiger Mist is rated a sustainability score of 75/100, and has a 30-day return and exchange window for the girls who may be a bit more indecisive. So, take a look at the fashionable items on Tiger Mist that will elevate your wardrobe, all season long.

Gossip Girl Blair Waldorf Shopping?width=1024&height=1024&fit=cover&auto=webp&dpr=4
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Kate Doherty

Illinois '28

My name is Kate, and I am from Elmhurst, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Communication with a minor in Public Relations and Advertising at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, planning to graduate in May of 2028.

I offer a strong foundation in communication strategies and digital media, with an ability to adapt to many different communication styles and channels. My academic coursework and hands-on experience has allowed me to explore topics like brand storytelling, social media management, and public speaking. I have developed strong writing, editing, and presentation skills, and have learned how to effectively engage audiences across many channels.

I take pride in being adaptable, detail-oriented, and eager to collaborate with others to achieve shared goals. Aside from career and academics, I enjoy going on walks, spending time with family and friends, baking, shopping, and traveling!! :)