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Virginia Tech | Style > Fashion

Fall Fashion on a College Budget

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Gwyneth Heefner Student Contributor, Virginia Tech
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia Tech chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

This article is going to jump into how to look like you just walked off your fall Pinterest board without breaking your budget. I’m going to include a mix of fall staples everyone needs in their closet this season, including chunky scarves, cozy sweaters, and jewelry stacks. 

Fits Under $50

A fit under $50 can be a difficult task when not shopping second hand, but I’m doing some of the work for you and found some cute fall essentials that go for under $50. To start, what is fall without a chunky sweater? A few days ago it finally hit below 50 degrees in Blacksburg and I was so excited to go into my closet and pull out a chunky knit sweater. I went and got a chai after and my fall mood was set. My first sweater option is from Princess Polly. While they are normally expensive, they run some really good deals that need to be checked out. I found a gray chunky sweater for $20 (71% off). Another sweater option is from Brandy Melville. They have an adorable off-the-shoulder sweater for $35. Old Navy is having some site wide deals right now and are selling knit waffle pants for under $15, which pair so cute with a sweater for a cozy look. While some of these brands are on the expensive side, hunting for deals can save your bank and let you wear a cute fall fit for under $50.

Sometimes All You Need Is an Accessory

If you don’t feel like buying a whole new outfit and just want to spice up what you have, accessories are the way to go. The number one fashion accessory in my opinion is a chunky scarf. Right now Old Navy is selling super soft and chunky scarves for under $10! My next favorite accessory is a pair of big sunglasses. Target sells so many affordable sunglasses. Moving on to my next accessory, jewelry, Target has so many jewelry options for under $20, and from experience they’re actually good quality. Another accessory I’m currently loving that’s a little different is a lace scarf to wrap around your waist, adding a layering effect to your outfit. I found one for under $5 on Cider.

Borrowed and Thrifted

When in doubt, one of my favorite affordable ways to mix up my wardrobe is borrowing from my friends. Not only do you not have to spend anything, but it can be so fun to clothing swap for a fall class day or a night out. Another option I love is heading over to Plato’s Closet to find some amazing deals. I’ve found sweaters there for under $10 from brands like Princess Polly and Free People, and even name-brand jeans for under $15. You don’t need a big budget to look amazing and cozy this fall. You can feel your best while staying on budget and fully embracing the fall spirit.

Gwyneth Heefner

Virginia Tech '26

Senior Marketing student at Virginia Tech.