Fall fashion never looked so affordable

By Katelyn Friel

Splashed across the glossy covers of fashion magazines, every season has its trends and must-haves. Keeping up with the industry’s current obsessions is not only time consuming, but if you are not careful, financially draining. Have no fear. There are solutions right at your fingertips. Luckily, today, there are a variety of ways to achieve that perfect look for less.

“Stores like Marshall’s and DSW offer awesome deals on brand name designers,” said freshman Ellen Keane. “If you are lucky, you can find great pieces from Juicy Couture and BCBG for almost nothing.”

Many retail stores, easily found in any mall across the nation, including Quakerbridge, located on Route 1 in Lawrenceville, are offering young consumers the chance to dress like a celebrity. Stores like Forever 21, H&M and Old Navy are selling interpretations of all of this season’s trends. Forever 21 sells chunky beads and bracelets that are great for layering and achieving that perfect ’80s punk-rock look for prices that range from five- to-ten dollars. It is a great place to pick up those leggings, tunic sweaters and jumper dresses that are must-haves now, but will not be next fall. Shop without remorse since a single item is rarely priced for more than $60.

“I love Forever 21,” said freshman Brittany Hayes. “I bought my Halloween costume there for under $40. It’s the best place to go if you want to find really cute outfits that might not be stylish in a couple of months.”

Another retailer that provides its customers with chic and trendy clothing for both males and females is H&M. Even the most indulgent shopper is able to create an entire outfit for $100, including accessories. Like Forever 21, H&M gives fashionistas on a budget the chance to purchase those large belts, flirty tops and T-shirts to achieve that coveted layered look.

“I bought a dress and accessories for roughly $100 [at H&M], which is pretty amazing since her designs usually cost thousands of dollars,” said freshman Genine Manheimer.

There are even stores in nearby Princeton that carry small designers that will add a unique edge to any look.

Located in Palmer Square, Honey West is a local boutique that offers premium denim, like 575 and Taverniti So, and signature tops from Shoshanna and La Rok. However, if taking the 15- minute drive is a stretch, there are several Web sites that offer coveted designer fashion at a discount. Bluefly.com and eBay sell designer handbags and jeans at prices even the most cost-conscious shopper would not mind splurging on.

Fabulous footwear is a must-have in any wardrobe, even if on a tight budget. With the growing fervor for the gorgeous footwear of Christian Louboutin, Steve Madden’s fall collection takes much of its inspiration from the pricier designer. The retailer gives students a chance to get that stunning pair of black biker booties for hundreds of dollars less than the designer original.

“The one thing that I would splurge on when shopping on a budget would be a pair of brown leather boots, junior Laura Franko said. “They would tie together almost any look.”

For those who are hesitant to invest a small fortune into their footwear, there are plenty of other options. To obtain those shoe designers’ inspired looks for less, check out Target or Payless. These chain retailers are great places to find the trendiest designs, like the bootie or platform pump.

When shopping on a budget, there is one important tip that everyone should remember: to maximize wardrobes, not credit limit.

“Wait two weeks into the season to catch the sales,” recommends Keane. “Every week, buy something new and cheap to fill in those wardrobe gaps and create new looks.”

Take a look through what your wardrobe already contains and figure out what is needed to make it look current and fresh. Go into a store only looking for sales and bargains.

Whatever your strategy, the most important thing to remember is which items are worth the splurge and which are worth the savings. However, with all the options that are being offered by the fashion industry, there is no excuse why you cannot invest in some of this season’s must-haves.