Face it: you're broke, but what person in their twenties isn't? You have spent your money on food, maybe some bills, or you simply don't have a job. The struggle to keep up with the fashion industry is all too real and it's even harder when you have a small amount of funds — better known as "ballin' on a budget." You still get to look rad and live your life, you just have to spend a little less cash in the process.
Retail Me Not has been my best friend for as long as I can remember. Thankfully, now they have an app so you can take your savings everywhere you go! It's chalk full of coupons, sales, and can notify you when you're on the same premises of a sale. It's easily the greatest thing since sliced bread.
There are so many places that are either unheard of or underrated that are prime spots for shopping. Here are some to name a few...
Old Navy
You might think I'm crazy. You might even think I'm insane, but Old Navy IS the place to shop. I know it has the potential to bring on horrible flashbacks from when your mom shopped there for every patriotic holiday in existence, but times have changed. Old Navy is no longer just a place for mothers and teachers.
For one, it always has sales. I was in there the other day and every rack of clothing had some kind of discount. They had a clearance rack for every section and everything was 20 percent off or more.
Not only do they have crazy sales but they also have a wide variety of clothing and styles. From day wear to active to going out, they have it all. There is a huge jewelry and accessories section and it's insanely cute. They recently had black booties on sale for just $10.99, and they were adorable.
Because Old Navy is a common nesting ground for teachers, it has all your essentials for that job interview you have next week, that internship, or if you're actually a teacher.
If you don't believe me, see for yourself.
Yeah. That's Old Navy.
Target
You probably go to Target fairly often for your make-up needs, a music player for your car, and all your basic dorm necessities. But for some reason, we always overlook the clothes there. Big mistake. Target actually has some super cute things and it's for a good price too.
They have everything you could need and want. Target has a wide for a variety of styles for every person.
All super stylish. All super affordable.
Target was always the place for bathing suits. Still is.
Abercrombie & Fitch
I know what you're thinking, "No, there's no way I'm shopping at Abercrombie." But what you don't know is that they have completely revamped their style. They have gone from big labels and moose heads to boho chic. Abercrombie has done a complete 360 and their clothes are to die for.
Most people stopped following the company when having the brand of your clothing plastered on the front of your chest went out of style. Fortunately, they've made a huge comeback and lucky for us, there is always a sale!
One thing important to remember when shopping at Abercrombie is that everything will always make it to clearance eventually. When their new seasons first come out they are pricey but after a month or so they will make their way to the sale section. This is the best time to buy because items are insanely marked down. A top that originally goes for $56 will go for $14. Some are even as low as $4!
Hollister
Once just a name brand store like it's sister Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister has also changed their style. They still have that California feel but their prices are low, low, low, especially in the clearance section.
Forever 21
This is the oh-so-obvious one. They have everything and anything and some of it is dirt cheap. They have camis for $1.50 and fashion tops starting at $5.
Savers
You might seem sketched out going to a Goodwill-like store but Savers is there to provide us with mom jeans that we can cut into high waisted shorts. It also helps with Halloween costumes and any type of clothing you need for cheap and don't mind cutting up or throwing away after.
Retail 101
Unfortunately, this one is only for people who live in Connecticut.
It is a warehouse in Beacon Falls, CT that has a crazy blow-out sale one weekend, every month. It carries name brand designers and has every style clothing you can imagine. And the best part is, everything is under $25. Different weekends have different sales so be sure to go to their website and submit your email so you get the updates. Some weekends have sales where you get everything you can fit in a bag for $25. It's definitely worth it to check out.
Being broke is a struggle, but at least now you can look good while you do it. Stay ballin'.
