Chic Spending: A Guide to Money-Saving Style

Cash-strapped college students love bargains. Finding high-quality merchandise for a steal can seem daunting, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips to help navigate the sea of deals for a stylish find.
 
Sale Rack Attack
 
Vanquish the idea that nothing chic ends up on sale. Some of the greatest staples are located in the 50 percent off racks. “Basic black T-shirts are a staple wise buyers load up on in the discount aisles,” according to InStyle’s article, “Shop Smart Every Time.
 
Sometimes a beloved item will make its way into the sale section if a shopper has patience. “If you see something and there is a lot of it, give it time,” notes UMD sophomore biology major Taylor Rogers. “It could be discounted later.”
 
“You never know what kind of sales are going on or what kind of deals you can find,” states UMD sophomore letters and sciences major Amelia Rock.

 
Alternative Shops
 
There is more to shopping than the typical department store or designer boutique, especially when your heart is set on a fashionable, but affordable find. Online shopping, outlets, clothing swaps, vintage stores and more offer ample chic steals.
 
When searching online it is important to never settle for retail price. “Google promo codes and sign up with members-only sample-sale sites,” as InStylerecommends. Also, find sites that offer free shipping to enhance the amount of chic savings.
 
“The first place I always start is online,” says UMD sophomore government and politics and anthropology major Irene Loizou. “I look on fashion blogs and look at where they made looks for less.”
 
“Outlets have really good deals,” comments Rock. They can offer designer duds for unbelievable discounts. High-caliber go-tos are: Barneys, Off 5th and Nordstrom Rack, according to Daisy Lewellyn in Glamour’s Suze Yalof Schwartz “Slaves to Fashion” blog post.
 
If you have fashionable friends, use them! Clothing swaps are the most affordable way to find chic accessories and stunning garments. After a successful swap, “no money changes hands and everyone goes home with something new to wear,” writes Tracey Lomrantz in Glamour’s “Slaves to Fashion” blog. Lomrantz explains how to host a clothing swap here.

 
Never fear vintage finds, thrift store selections or consignment giants like TJ Maxx and Marshalls. But do be cautious of the quality. Scrutinize your find for stains, tears or other blemishes. However, if the deal is mind-boggling and the imperfection is an easy fix, go for it.
 
“Know what is fixable and what isn’t: Loose buttons can be easily sewn on tighter and broken zippers can be inexpensively replaced,” explains InStyle. “Needless to say, bad smells aren’t worth the trouble.”
 
Think Versatility

Basics and neutrals, like black or white are flexible in the fashion sense. “Look for the essentials that you can always mix and match,” advises Loizou. “As opposed to those one time pieces.” When you can utilize an apparel piece in numerous ways and at multiple times you buy less, which keeps money in the bank.

Always remember a little can go a long way when you get creative. “Loop a chain through the clasp of a brooch, and suddenly it’s a necklace,” suggests InStyle in “The 50 Best Fashion Tips of All Time.”
 
Don’t be Afraid to DIY
 
Last, but certainly not least, take a risk and design your own fashion. “I fell in love with this pair of leopard shoes at Urban Outfitters,” recalls Loizou. “I went to Jo-Ann’s and got this glitter paint then cut out circles and glittered them to make the shoes.”
 
With some time and creative thinking, looking sensational while saving is actually a breeze!