TIPS
By Hannah Mallory
It’s not easy being a student, especially being a student trying to look good on a budget. For many of us, we don’t get the luxury of buying the clothes we really want and it can be quite limiting. Here I have compiled a list of some of the most effective ways you can save money and still look your best.
Charity shops:
Charity shops will be your best bet when it comes to finding a good deal so long as you are willing do some searching. Every charity shop is different so you have to be open minded and prepared to really search through the stock. You can often find quality brands at drastically reduced prices which can save you a lot and makes the trip well worth it. It is also worth getting to know the staff as they can tell you when they’ll receive new stock.
Student Discount:
Most shops provide student discounts, so it’s really important that you take advantage of this while you can! Apps such as Unidays provide discount codes for a number of different shops and services, including most mainstream clothing stores such as New Look, H&M and Topshop. This app can be used online and in store so it’s a great and easy way to save a few pennies.
Buy out of season:
Buying your clothes out of season can drastically bring the cost down from their original prices. It may not seem logical buying your jumpers in the warmer months or your bikinis in winter but it will save you a lot in the long run. Once stock is replaced for the new seasons, old stock is typical put on sale, with prices often being slashed by 50% or more depending on where you look. One downside is that you aren’t always guaranteed to find everything you like in your size, in fact your chances are much lower.
Sell your clothes:
Before you go out buying, consider what you already have in your wardrobe. Chances are, you own a number of clothing items that you don’t even wear anymore. It is worth doing a full sort out of your wardrobe and selling anything you don’t need. Not only will this make more space, but it will give you a little income to spend on some new clothes to replace them. You can sell your clothes online at places like Ebay or Depop fairly easily.
All in all, there are plenty of ways to shop on a budget and still look fashionable so long as you are willing to do some digging.
Just remember is the outfit a need or a want. Does it make sense to spend a little more for quality on key pieces?