Fashion is a universal outlet that is used to express creativity in a wearable form. It is a medium that promotes innovation, vision and resourcefulness from a unique masterpiece of individuality.

Though fashion is about personal expression, current trends seem to be the only thing that we as a society worry about. The latest fads have become the central focus of our industry and essentially reflect the degree of social awareness of one in a given environment. Overtime, the ability to keep up with these trends becomes a priority and it often diminishes the potential to feel accepted due to the fact that they are always changing. Not to mention it becomes quite costly.

If you’re like me, you like to get more bang for your buck. As a college student living on a tight income, I do my best to find loopholes for just about anything. More recently, I have become more aware of the numerous ways that one can achieve a high fashion look for less.

Throughout the past months, I have developed a stronger interest in off season, secondhand and online shopping. The benefits of doing these things are immense and can potentially save you a lot more in the long run.

Secondhand shopping is pretty much equivalent to finding a diamond in the rough. You never know what you’ll find and you won’t find anything unless you have the patience to search. Often, secondhand shopping is looked down upon. However, I believe that is one of the greatest ways to achieve a cute look for less. Secondhand shops range and some can actually be very high end. I have found some of my favorite pieces in local stores around me and it makes it even better because you know that the item is truly one of a kind.

My second favorite form of saving is off season shopping. I actually achieve most of my looks from the end of the season sales of big name brand stores. This is probably the smartest option because of the the fact that stores switch out their merchandise so often. This is seen as a huge advantage to us consumers because it makes it very easy for us to find what is still on trend. Not to mention you are still able to wear the clothing because of the fact that the season you are in, is still. occurring.

Lastly, the ability to search for similar fashions from alternative stores is key. That super expensive skirt that you’ve been wanting for ages but just can’t afford probably has a doppleganger hidden somewhere else that is also more affordable. When searching for certain styles, many do not pay attention to the brand, but more so the style of it all. No one truly needs to know where it’s from but how its worn is key.

These approaches have not only been a lifesaver for my bank account but they have also provided me with a huge confidence boost knowing that I purchased these awesome pieces for so much less. In essence, a little bit of searching, patience and awareness can lead you to great high fashion, in season looks for less.