Shopping as a student can be a stressful and difficult experience. Especially if you enjoy fashion. In high school, making money was saved specifically for shopping trips---at least for me it was--- but as a college student there is much more to worry about. I guess that's part of growing up. But there is a way to be careful with your money and still enjoy shopping. Luckily for us college kids, many stores have student discounts--- some of which can be taken off of already on-sale items.
1. Madewell
Madewell has always been one of my go-to stores when looking for new fashionable clothing for a cheap price. There are a couple of deals that they offer that are really great for students. First, they offer a 15 percent student discount on both full-priced and on-sale items. Still not convinced? If you bring in a pair of old jeans, Madewell will give you 20 dollars toward one of their pairs. Sometimes, they will also give you a student discount on top of it. Oh--- and for the teachers: all of these discounts apply to you as well.
2. J.Crew
J.Crew is well known for their clean-cut and classic clothing that work for both casual and professional life. They also have a petite section for those who are on the shorter side. While some of their more key and classic pieces, like blazers, can be on the pricier side, J.Crew offers a 15 percent student discount. Unfortunately, they aren't as lenient as Madewell, and won't take the discount off of on-sale items, but it does help for nice shirts and jewelry. Although they don't usually offer it, make sure to sign up for emails and be on the lookout. A lot of shopping malls have college shopping days in which all of the stores give student discounts. During this time, J.Crew Factory will have 40 percent off of the full store, and will also take another 15 percent off if you show your student I.D.
3. Alex and Ani
Never be afraid to ask a store if they offer a student discount. The employees may look at you in a strange way, but hey, you're a college student, and anything is helpful. Alex and Ani is one of the stores that you wouldn't expect to have a student discount. Their jewelry is extremely popular, but they still offer a 10 percent discount on all items except for their Bangle of the Month and Charity by Design. This 10 percent discount also applies for military personnel.
4. Club Monaco
Walking past Club Monaco's window displays make it hard not to go inside. Their stores are always filled with pastel and light colored clothing that would make any wardrobe the perfect one. What many do not know about Club Monaco is that they have a crazy sale section. I always try to stop in and look at their newer items in the sale section (after dreaming about the day that I can purchase the full-priced designs) whenever I'm at the mall. They have great items for internships and professional lifestyles, but can also be worn casually. On top of this, Club Monaco also offers a 20 percent student discount off of both full-priced on on-sale items. This offer is also for in-store and online. Now that you know about this discount, make sure you present it at checkout. Sometimes the cashier will tell you that the discount isn't taken off additionally with sales, but if you show them the statement on their website, there shouldn't be a problem.
5. Jack Wills
Jack Wills is a newer brand to the United States. The British company only has eight locations in the US. Their pink and navy blue striped walls immediately drag you in when shopping--- especially if you've been to Europe and are missing the style. The Jack Wills clothing styles are extremely stylish and classy, and are great for internships and work. Besides the fact that they have good in-store sales, the company offers a 10 percent discount. Currently, if you go and purchase an item---they are having a sale--- you will also receive a card worth 15 percent off of your first online purchase.
These are only a few out of the many stores that will offer student discounts. Make sure to do your research and know where to go. Larger student-site stores like H&M and Forever21 tend to never have sales, but there should always be something for quality clothes. Never be afraid to ask, and keep the fashion coming.
