Tuition fees, bills, and rent can leave you with a very thin purse, and buying clothing can be expensive with such inflated price tags. Shopping within your price range and knowing how much to spend is important, but calculating how much of your income you can allot for buying clothes, shoes, and accessories can be tricky. However, there are ways to cut down on fashion spending while still looking current.
- Thrifting: Thrifting is a great way to save money. A downside is that it may take longer to find the pieces you like, but the price difference between retail and thrift stores is hard to ignore. For example, MCC Clothing Etc. has weekly fifty cent racks where customers can find clothing for cheap. Other places like the MCC Centre Thrift Shop on Gladys have student discounts on Fridays for 20 per cent off. All you need to do is bring your student card and show them at the checkout counter.
- Shop your closet: The cheapest place to go shopping is your closet! Sometimes it’s easy to forget what you have already. You may find that you already own the piece you were thinking of purchasing, or find a good substitute to wear instead. Going through your wardrobe is a great way to make a list of what you have and rediscover pieces that may be hiding in the bottom of a drawer or in the back of your closet.
- Do not impulse buy: It is easy to do and sometimes we regret it. Shopping around and putting items on hold or on your wish list is a great way to ensure that you are getting what you need for the best price possible. Looking at all your options can help filter out items that may not work for your fashion needs. The good news is that if you impulse buy an item you later regret, chances are high that you can exchange it or get a reimbursement.
- Wait for sales: Why buy it for full price? The waiting game can be challenging as certain sizes can sell out faster than others. However, it does not hurt to look for sales on items that you need or want to add to your closet. Buying an item on sale is satisfying and can save you a ton of money in the long run.
- Avoid shopping online: Online shopping is fast and easy. While more accommodating and user-friendly, if you’re not a sensible shopper, you could lose money on unnecessary purchases with the click of a button. It’s easy to follow internet rabbit holes and clickbait to our favourite websites. However, exercising self-control and avoiding online shopping is another way to save money. Think about all the shipping and handling fees you save by not spending money online.
And there you have it, a list of strategies to help you save money and shop smarter!
Rachel is working towards a BA with a concentration in English and Theatre. She has been employed at The Cascade since Fall 2021 as a Staff Writer and a Jr. News Editor. Currently, she is the sectional News Editor and enjoys meeting and interviewing people as well as taking long walks in nature. Rachel also likes to stay up to date on the latest trends and informs students through her fashion column entitled Campus Fashion.
