Part Deux

As promised, I am continuing my list of tips and tricks to living fashionably on a college budget.


3)  Many people fear the thrift and second-hand stores.  While, there is sometimes reason to fear, you'd be surprised by the treasures you find.  A lot of times, second-hand stores have designer clothes on an affordable budget--and while yes, they have been worn by someone else, they have been washed!  You borrow your friends clothes?  Whats the big deal.  Stores such as Nimble in Cotati, are the perfect place to test out the waters of second-hand store shopping.  You'd be surprised by the great pieces you can find, for a great price.  


4)  Forever 21.  Forever 21 has become one of, if not the most popular store among teens and young adults shopping on a budget.  Their clothes are inspired by current trends and the works of popular designers, but are sold at price-point.  I have been an advocate of Forever 21 for years--why not they have cute clothes that generally don't cost more than $20 or $30.  However, I have recently been struggling with their selection.  For one, they only cater to one body type, so it makes it difficult to find clothes that fit the average woman the right way.  Not to mention, the quality is not up to par by any means.  Conversely, I have been able to fill my closet with various things from their store when I've gotten lucky enough to find a good fit that does not look cheap.  My advice is to still utilize Forever 21's trends at an affordable price, but make sure you save up to incorporate quality pieces into your wardrobe.

budget crisis

As a fashionista on a college budget, I have gained much experience over the past few years for dressing fashionably on a tight budget.  

Before we begin, it is important to understand the difference between dressing on a budget, and looking cheap.  Cheap must be avoided at ALL costs.  When I say cheap, I do not mean on sale or for a low price--the sale rack can often be the jackpot.  Items that are not well made, stitching falling apart, tacky embellishments, or just plain tacky fabric are what define cheap.  (To be more specific, this would include pleather, even worse, colored pleather, Rhine stoning, metallics, etc.--not hard to tell what looks tacky).

Exhibit A & B:  Don't even dare.

My next few posts are going to be my tricks of the trade for styling yourself on a tight budget.  

*Keep in mind that these techniques can be combined with each other, or fly solo based on your needs and your wallet.

1.  First, is knowing when to buy.  Don't tease yourself by going to your favorite store, when that extra money in your bank account is reserved for bills.  You will be less likely to splurge if you just steer clear when you can't afford it.  If your going to the mall with friends, just leave your credit cards at home, or pull out the amount of cash that you are able to spend.  However, don't be afraid to have a little fun and try stuff on.  This way, you can keep in mind your favorites for when you are able to spend.  This also deters you from making impulsive buys that leave you with regret later on.  I can’t tell you how many times I would impulsively splurge on a top or pair of jeans, and wear them once—those were the rookie days.     

 2.  Second, is making sure you cover all your bases.  Do not put all your eggs in one basket.  If you spend all your ‘shopping’ money on nice jeans, but have crappy tops or shoes, what’s the point of having nice jeans?  If your budget is thin, spread it out.  Make sure you have the necessities, and then splurge evenly so that you have a well-rounded wardrobe.

These are two basic techniques to start with, look out for more in volume 2.

My Latest Obsessions

There are always pieces in my wardrobe that mark the central theme of my closet, and what I am actually wearing from my closet.  Although I always try my best to incorporate things I have worn multiple times by spicing them up with a new accessory or style of wearing it, I find myself relying on central pieces, colors, and themes in a seasonal rotation.


Coming into Spring, the "ultra nude" is blossoming, where a mix of nudes, tans, rose pinks, olive greens, and mustard yellows are dominating part of the fashion scene as well as my closet.  I find myself attracted to these neutral colors as well as flowery prints providing a modest yet fashionable trend.  


To incorporate this style into my every day dress, there are a few pieces I rely heavily on--but am especially careful not  to overwear.  


Must have #1:  An army cargo chic, olive green jacket.  One that incorporates the pockets of a cargo, the metal embossing for style, drawstrings to shape your waist, and a hood are all components that I love about mine.  The length that reaches halfway down my rear gives it the ideal length as well allowing me to wear it with dresses, shorts, and jeans.  The olive green niches perfectly into the "ultra nude" color wheel, adding a soft yet colorful aspect to the neutral tones. 

Brass Revival Cargo Jacket by Free People

$138

Must have #2:  Eyelit lace top--preferably floral.  A simple lace top in either nude, cream, or even white can be worn over a cami with jeans, over a solid colored dress, a romper, or with a skirt.  This versatile piece will go great with most of your wardrobe during the spring regardless of the trend you are obsessing over.  It is all about how you accessorize and style it.

Lace Brocade Top, Forever21

$24.80

Must have #3:  Neutral colored (of course!) infinity scarf.  I love the infinity scarf because it can be worn as one long loop, or wrapped up around your neck for warmth.  The cream color I have can be thrown over practically anything in my closet and adds something extra to the plain shirt and cardigan I find myself relying on on my way to class!

Must have #4:  A light rose pink leather belt.  Obviously these can be any color, however I am obsessed with my rose pink one.  They key is in the size--thinner is better!  If a belt is too thick it can become overbearing on the outfit when it should be a simple accessory.  

Must have #5:  Combat boots.  Disclaimer:  not everyone can pull these off.  However, if worn with the right pieces and accessorized with the right color combinations, they can be fabulous--as opposed to manly.  

Barberis, Aldo Shoes $120