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How to Shop for Clothes on a Budget as a College Student:

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WPUNJ chapter.

College is expensive, but I know you still want to look good! Here are some things that I do and use to spend less money on clothes while still looking fashionable!

  1. Thrifting:

Over the years I have seen that thrifting has become popular. I recently started going with friends or just myself. I have found great finds of unique clothing for a low price. Tip: I usually go early to find great pieces!

2. Plato’s Closet

I found out about Plato’s Closet about a few years ago and I’m glad I did. I had a closet overflowing with so much clothes that I never wore anymore. Before I started selling my items on Depop I used to sell my items to Plato’s. You give them a bag filled with your clothes and depending on the wait time you can either leave it there and come back or you can look around the store and see if there is anything you want to purchase. However, Plato’s can be sometimes annoying because they pay you very little for the clothes you’re selling. Tip: I would cut the inside tags off!!! Even if the clothes are new Plato’s won’t take anything over 2 years old. By cutting the tags it gives you a greater chance at selling your products!

3. Depop, Poshmark, Mercari

There are many apps where you can sell and buy clothes online! On these specific apps you can either get rid of some of the clothes you no longer wear, or you can purchase clothing items that are not too pricey. You can even message the sellers and ask if they could lower the price, provide you with a discount or even give you free shipping! By shopping from these apps I’ve been able to find unique items. I can also purchase clothing that I know will fit me since many sellers provide measurements!

4. Unidays and Student Beans

Unidays and Student Beans are both websites (also apps) that provide students with discounted deals on clothing brands, products and services. You can get discounts on brands such as H&M, Tillys, American Eagle, Adidas, Levi’s and much more! All you have to do is verify that you’re a student!

5. Discount Department Stores

Some stores that I shop at when I’m looking for simple staple pieces are Target, Walmart, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and Burlington. These stores have great tank tops, flannels, button ups and much more for cheap prices! Buying these items are perfect because they’re timeless pieces that will always be on trend!

Dayana is a sophmore at William Paterson University and is majoring in Accounting