How to Be Fashionably Frugal

By Jenise Jackson
Blog Content Contributor

Most of us were probably taught that how we present ourselves makes a lasting impression. Typically, when we interact with people, the first thing they notice about us is what we are wearing. I used to have this belief that I needed a wardrobe that consisted of the latest, highly-priced clothes for others to think I looked good. By the time my freshman year of college was complete, I realized you don’t have to spend all of your money to be fashionable. Because of that, I decided to explore different ways to shop without breaking my bank that I believe any frugal college student can appreciate.

Don’t Be Afraid to Thrift

Thrift shopping has become a very common trend among millennials. While shopping at thrift stores, you save money and you find one-of-a-kind articles of clothing that most likely won’t be found in anyone else’s everyday collection. I honestly didn’t realize how amazing thrift shopping was until I found some unique outfits for very friendly prices. I know this option isn’t always appealing but giving it a shot can’t hurt. I did and now I’m practically thrift shopping every weekend.

Discount Stores Are a Plus

If you want to find name brand clothes that are currently in season, but also have favorable prices discount stores are perfect. Stores like Ross and Marshall’s purchase the excess items that department stores can’t sell for a low price and in turn pass those savings onto their customers. For example, you could purchase a top for about $8 at a discount store and see it for around $20 elsewhere. If you’re anything like me, you’d never shy away from deals like that. If you’re not like me, take a chance and visit a local discount store. You may end up discovering your new shopping haven.

Never Forget the Sale/Clearance Racks

I can’t lie, and say that I don’t occasionally make my stops at name brand stores. I do that pretty regularly, but now I have a method. I look at the sale and/or clearance racks before anything else. Most stores keep these racks all the way in the back so that you focus mainly on the new, regular priced items. That doesn’t mean you have to be ashamed of being cheap. Walk to these racks with pride knowing that you’re saving money. I would advise you to be mindful of the fact that items on sale will only have temporary price reduction, and you’ll probably never see clearance items again once they have all sold. So take advantage of these savings while they are available.

Saving money is smart, and learning how to save it is part of becoming a responsible adult. We all want to treat ourselves to the finer things, especially when it comes to fashion, but that doesn’t mean we always have to spend our last dollar to do so. Bargain shopping has become a hobby for me, and has led me to find my true style. So know that it is okay to be stylish, yet frugal. In fact, your wallet will thank you for it.