College is such an amazing time for those who are lucky enough to experience. There’s an abundance of new people to meet, you get to learn things you didn’t know before, and you get to know yourself a little better too. You learn that buying those Tory Burch flats are not as important as having some decent food in your mini fridge for when you come back late from the library. Yup, that’s what you learn in college.
For the girls (and guys) who are in college on a limited budget but still want to look great, keep these tips in mind when shopping:
Shop within your means. It’s easy to try and make excuses on why you need those heels you’ve dying for but if it’s going to keep you on a tight leash the rest of the week or month, don’t do it. Instead, go to stores like H&M, Forever 21, or shop online with discount codes that will really give you your money’s worth. Finding affordable clothes is incredibly easy, especially online, so there’s no reason to overspend.
Buy pieces that can be worn all year round. There are classic pieces that can be mixed and matched to get a great outfit so having the basics down is important. Items like black or dark blue skinny jeans, a solid colored blue or white buttoned down shirt, and a black blazer are all pieces that you should have and can be the basis of a great look. Because they’re classics, the look just as good in the spring as they do in the fall.
Don’t spend too much on trending items. Trends come and go all the time and if you’re spending a lot of money on an item that looks a bit too out there (we’re looking at you, neon colors), you’re going to go broke pretty quickly. If something is trending and it looks like it’s something that can be worn again for years to come, by all means stay in the fashion loop. But if you know you’ll be getting rid of it after the season is over, you might want to think again.
Treat yourself when you’re able to. Most of us have budgets not only in college but IRL too but don’t be so hard or strict on yourself. You’re working your butt off to get good grades and maybe even working too so it’s completely ok to give yourself a little gift every once in a while. You deserve it.
To see more college saving tips, check out the videos!
(Cover image: collegewalk.wordpress.com)
