The original fashionista and the first true clearance pioneer, Carrie Bradshaw, once said, “I like my money right where I can see it — hanging in my closet.” Now, I am no size two. I don’t own a beautiful, quirky apartment in NYC and unfortunately, do not get to write a fabulous column about "sex in the city," but Ms. Bradshaw and I do have quite a bit in common. And if you are a true fashionista like me, this Bradshaw quote truly speaks to your soul.
In my experience, trying to put together a wardrobe that “wows” while scrounging for change in the couch cushions can be exhausting and frustrating. So take these these tips from me, a poor, broke, college student fashion diva, and hang them in your closet.
1. Thrift shop till you drop
Can you really beat paying a dollar for an entire bag of thrift store goodies? Or better yet, paying 45 bucks for a designer label? Although some might turn up their noses to secondhand finds, I am a firm believer in “another woman’s trash is another girl’s treasure.” Especially when it comes to snagging a Calvin Klein dress for a little bit of nothing or a vintage floral skirt for 99 cents.
2. Avoid stores you can't afford like the plague
I absolutely hate having to pass buy an adorable pair of shoes simply because I can’t afford them! Or any item of clothing for that matter. So, I don’t! I tried just buying everything I wanted, but as one can imagine, my bank account had some issues with that approach. My money and I came to a compromise when I decided just to avoid the temptation. When I see a certain store I know I can’t really afford, I don’t even go in and I speed walk past reaaaaal fast. It makes paying my rent a heck of a lot easier. Plus, I get some exercise by speed walking. Two birds, one stone.
3. Online shopping rocks my fashionista socks
I love Victoria’s Secret. Honestly, who doesn’t? But, paying full price (up to 60 or 70 bucks?!?) for a bra seems a bit steep and their sales and clearance section seem almost nonexistent! Lucky for us Secret Lovers, I have a secret. Online shopping! Almost every store (Victoria’s included) has a clearance tab that seems to be hiding in their stores. It might take a little longer to get your treasures, but it is a win in the long run! Here is another secret: Amazon Prime. Amazon has endless stockpiles of items worthy of a fabulous wardrobe—at affordable prices, too (score!). Plus, Amazon Prime comes with free two-day shipping. They even offer a student discount membership for those of us who are a little short on cash. Or just use your mom’s account like my sister does. Whatever works.
4. 'Out of Season' is my favorite season
When sundresses and sandals are in season, I want sundresses and sandals. When boots and tights are in season, I want boots and tights. It’s just the way us fashion divas are wired. The only problem with “in season” apparel is having to pay an arm and a leg just to satisfy myself. Stores can get away with selling their “in season” items for high prices because most shoppers don’t realize—seasons change! With the changing of seasons, comes the changing of prices. Behold! The 'Out of Season' phenomenon! All you really need is a little patience.
5. CLEARANCE! CLEARANCE! CLEARANCE!
I realize this is the oldest trick in the books, but I will always be an advocate for the little red tag. I refuse to pay full price for something unless it’s something I absolutely need. Like chocolate. Or toilet paper. And even then I try to get the best deal possible. If a store has a clearance rack, chances are, the item you want will eventually end up on it (see previous tip). If you hit the racks on a good day, you could end up with 10 clearance items for the same price as one full price item. It is truly amazing. My fellow fashionistas, clearance is key!
Although I am sure my closet falls short in comparison to the closet of Carrie Bradshaw, by following my fashionista tips I think I am well on my way! However, even when I follow these tricks of the trade I still find myself searching my cushions for a couple of coins. Especially if I can use them for a couple of steals at the thrift shop. Carrie is right, come rain or shine, hell or high water, I still like my money right where I can see it—hanging in my closet.
