Between textbooks, parties and food, college students often find their checking accounts deplete much more quickly than anticipated.
However, this does not justify holding onto your jeans from your sophomore year of high school. If you think no one is noticing the fraying at your hems, you are surely mistaken.
There comes a time when we must upgrade our wardrobes. But doing so doesn't have to be expensive.
When buying new clothes, it's essential that you find a balance between cost and quantity. Sure, a $100 pair of jeans may seem pricey at first, but it's been my experience that they will last much longer than their $40 counterparts. They'll also look better.
Many people argue that there isn't a huge variety in textile quality. Essentially, the brand name determines a piece's price.
For some items, this is true. For instance, most of a $345 Hermès t-shirt's value is derived from the little "H" embroidered on the chest pocket.
Yet for other pieces, especially shoes and knitwear, the quality certainly reflects the price.
High quality staples that you'll wear often, like denim, boots and cardigans, will eventually pay for themselves, as long as you take good care them.
Today, with the internet, getting great deals is much easier than waiting for sales at traditional brick-and-mortar stores.
It's always good to be thinking ahead while you're shopping. Discounts usually come after the end of a season, so why not buy next year's swimsuit now? You'll save money, and you'll be ready for an impromptu foam party.
Subscribe to your favorite brands email lists — you'll be the first to know about sales, and you might even score some exclusive offers.
Also, there are many websites, like retailmenot.com, that distribute coupon codes for a variety of online retailers. You're bound to find some savings just by googling "[shop's name] coupon codes."
Perhaps you have a penchant for designer clothes. Become a member of online flash sale boutiques, like Gilt Groupe, Ideeli, Rue La La or Hautelook. Although the products are sold out very quickly, you can get some great deals if you're lucky. A few weeks ago, I purchased a sweater that was originally $580 for $80 from Gilt Man. Score!
The daily sales usually start in the late morning or noon, so they provide the perfect distraction during those inevitably boring lectures.
These websites usually have a registration process, and some have not-so-friendly return policies. Check these out before you buy.
If you want to bag the deepest discounts, don't be afraid to check out consignment stores. Sure, the items are second-hand but most are very gently used. Most consignments have a particular focus — I love vintage high-fashion stores for finding unique, affordable pieces. For more information about consignment stores in Baltimore, visit www.baltimoreconsignment.com.
Hey, if you're feeling adventurous, you could even check out eBay!
High-grade tailoring is largely responsible for the price of expensive clothing. Why not cut your costs by forging a relationship with a local tailor? After about $100 worth of tailoring, you can make a $300 Zara suit look like a $2000 Thom Browne suit.
Now that you've invested in some high-quality pieces, take care of them! Follow the care instructions on the tags religiously, opt for hang drying instead of dryers and avoid starch unless desperately needed. Become familiar with local dry cleaners — there are several close to campus on St. Paul Street. Also, if you're feeling industrious, learn how to sew and make minor fabric repairs.
There's certainly a conception in our society that being fashionable is expensive and materialistic. Needless to say, many people use clothing as status symbol and fall into the trap of being defined by who, rather than what they are wearing.
However, don't let this discourage you from wearing quality clothes, especially if you get them at great prices. Fashion should be more about wearable art than an exhibition of wealth.
Any reputable designer would scoff at the idea that someone is wearing their pieces to actualize a superiority complex.
No one should have to apologize for looking great.
With a little bit of research and planning, you'll be on your way to being fashionable without breaking the bank. Or, if you're at all like me, you'll just use your savings to buy more!
Got any questions about style and fashion? Email me at fashion@jhunewsletter.com!
