The holidays seem to be the happiest time of the year, but let’s not forget that they are also the most expensive. Shopping, shopping and more shopping is on the mind of students, right underneath the looming thought of finals. Many students seem to be worried about getting their shopping done in time for the holidays, but what many students don’t realize is that there are several shopping options not too far from College Park.
Right here in College Park is a cute boutique if you’re shopping for your girlfriends. On Cloud 9 is located on College Ave, right past the Bagel Place. As a privately owned boutique, this little shop has stylish clothes and accessories any girl would love. Chunky necklaces and big sweaters seem to be all the rage, which are all available at On Cloud 9.
Another great place to shop is the Mall at Prince George’s. At only about a five-minute drive from campus, this mall is filled with stylish stores. For those students that can’t drive, College Park transportation systems also provide rides to the mall.
The mall is equipped with both Macy’s and JC Penney, offering clothes, perfumes and shoes. There is also the classic Victoria’s Secret and Express for more familiar shopping. Stop into Rumors for a Forever 21-type style of clothing.
“Whenever I come visit my boyfriend at College Park, I have to go to Rumors,” said Maryland resident, Kaitlyn Hodges. “I’ve purchased some of my favorite going out shirts there.”
Not only is the Mall at Prince George’s close by, but also the Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda is only about a twenty-minute drive away. With stores like American Eagle, Urban Outfitters and American Apparel, this mall is set with high fashion gift options for the holidays. A two-floor Forever 21 is the main attraction at the mall, filled with stylish clothes for cheap prices.
“Montgomery mall is the mall I go to when I’m home,” said sophomore business major Colleen Phillips. “I love that it’s close to campus so I can go shopping at all the stores I love without having to drive too far.”
One last mall that is just minutes away from campus is the Beltway Plaza Mall. Located right down Greenbelt road, the drive is only about ten minutes from campus. College Park also provides transportation to the plaza for those students that don’t have a car.
Here is where the best holiday shopping can be done, especially for those broke college students. Marshalls is a dress for less store, which offers name brand clothing at discounted prices. From Jessica Simpson shoes to Lucky Brand bags, Marshalls is filled with deals that any college student can afford.
“Whenever my roommate and I go grocery shopping at Giant, I always ask if we can stop in Marshalls,” said junior kinesiology major Lauren Johnson. “I love looking through the racks and finding the best deals.”
When you’re ready to go gift shopping for the holidays, check out these places. Not only are they close, but many of the stores also have holiday deals. You’ll find the perfect gift ideas for any of your girlfriends, and you might even find something for yourself!