Every time the seasons change, I get an urge to revamp my wardrobe. My closet looks bare, and all my favorite outfits have lost their sparkle. At this point, I usually pack away the winter coats and darker colors and bring back the shorts, tank tops and bright spring colors. Then the search for the best shops begin with a whole mall at my disposal to explore. Columbia mall has dozens of stores with everything you could possibly need. 18 stores strictly dedicated to footwear, six department stores, four for sportswear and all the others for your best look. So here’s my top suggestions for which stores to hit up first.

Food Court Time

Any great trip to the mall starts with a quick stop to the food court and Columbia has a great selection! From Arby’s to Auntie Anne’s, Panda Express, Panera, or even Maggiano’s Little Italy for the best slice of pizza, you have plenty of options.

Now to Wear Out the Credit Cards

Since one of my spring semester goals is to spend more time at the gym, the first places you’ll find me are Fabletics and Athleta. Leggings and sporty jackets are a must.

Shoes, Shoes, and More Shoes!

For every occasion and every freak change in the weather, shoes make the most difference. Even if you have no jeans and a jacket, open-toed shoes could be your breaking point when it drops from 50 degrees to 30 in a matter of hours. New booties are a must, and casual open-toed wedges will be the next addition to the collection. The Walking Company, Payless ShoeSource, Journeys, and Call It Spring are the top places.

The Favorites

American Eagle Outfitters, Express, Francesca’s, Pink, Forever 21, H&M, and Lou Lou Boutique are for tying all the outfits together.

Many hundreds of dollars later and arms full of shopping bags, I can drop knowing the wardrobe is back to its full potential! There's no better feeling than a completed list and the achieved exhaustion of shopping because I couldn’t carry any more bags.