If you're anything like me you know that retail therapy can almost become a necessity to your life. Shopping relieves stress, makes you feel and look better. Though it may soothe your mind it definitely doesn't soothe your pockets. Being a typically broke college students I've picked up on a few shopping tactics that will keep you stylish while saving money.
1. Hit the sales rack first.
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I believe retail stores make sure their sales racks are in the back of the store so it can be the customers last resort but when you're attempting to save money it should definitely be your first. Until I started doing this I never noticed how much most of my favorite stores discount their still in style clothes when they get in newer items. You might not always find exactly what you're looking for but it's definitely worth the look and the savings. Some retail sales racks I would recommend are target, American eagle, urban outfitters, and department stores like Dillard's or Bloomingdales.
2. Thrifting is your best-friend.
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Thrifting has became very popular within the past couple years and it's because there are so many hidden gems in consignment stores. Depending on the location you can find name brand jeans, purses, shoes etc that would go for hundreds of dollars in retail stores at less than half the price in consignment stores. Consignment stores are also good for vintage clothing and trends that are coming back in style such as bell bottoms, mom jeans or overalls. If you are fine with wearing gently used clothes thrifting is definitely a good way to save money.
3. Always use coupons and discounts.
If you have a couple of stores that you shop at regularly the best way to find deals is to keep up with their sales. Sign up for emails, text or whatever way to notify you of items going on sell,most of it seems like junk mail but this is probably the most effortless way to save money while shopping, usually around holidays are when stores have the most sales so always be on the lookout to be notified, also being a college student use your student Id to your benefit. There are many retail stores that give at least a ten percent discount to students just by showing id. It's nice to see that some people like to help struggling students out a little.
