Being broke is definitely the definition of most college students, yet I still find myself constantly trying to shop for something. From groceries to shopping with you roommates there is always something to spend money on (especially if you're a girl). With my major being Apparel Merchandising, I constantly find myself trying to keep up with current trends. However, the never the item, the more expensive it will be. Here is how to shop sales on your favorite items without breaking the bank.

1. Sign up for store emails

Don't get me wrong, sifting through the daily email ads can get frustrating. But it's totally worth it when the "10 for $30" sale email comes from Aerie, or the occasional free gift with a $20 purchase.

2. Shop the clearance rack

Yeah the clothes might not be brand new on the floor, but they are still just as great. And they can be up to half of the full price.

3. Black. Friday. Shopping

Black Friday sales are easily one of my favorite times of the year. You can get stocked up on birthday and Christmas presents as well as shopping for yourself. And you can do it all without cleaning out your bank account. It's really a win win for everyone.

4. Consider it exercise

Walking around the mall all day definitely burns calories, especially when carrying bags full of stuff (because it was cheap and you just had to buy it all).

5. Get excited about new clothing

It's more likely for someone to branch out any try a new style if it is cheaper because if they don't like it, then they won't feel as bad for paying a small amount of money for it.

6. See it as an opportunity to relieve stress

Retail therapy is definitely needed sometimes. And you never know what kind of cute cheap things you'll find during that trip to the mall.

7. Don't forget about deals on food, too!

Everyone eats, so you might as well stock up on food while it's cheap.

8. Don't feel bad about buying stuff... It's on sale!

Finding the perfect blanket or sweater that is extremely soft is the best feeling, and its even better when it's on sale.

9. Don't be afraid to fight over an item

When you're having a bad day and feel like fighting with someone, take it out on the crazy people that partake in sales such as semi-annual sale. You get to relieve stress and save a lot of money on whatever you're stress buying.

10. Shop online!

Online shopping is great, except when you get outbid on something you really want. That's just probably the universe telling you that you'll find something better next time.

11. Wait for stores to have their sale days

Some stores have scheduled days of the week that they put certain items on sale. So just make a list of what you need and wait until its designated sale day to purchase it.

Happy spending (and saving)!