Fashion Investments For Every College Girl

By Olivia Kaiser on April 5, 2014

Being a girl in the fashion world is tough. Trends are constantly changing–what’s in style one day is vintage the next. And while trends usually circle back around, it might not be for 20 or 30 years.

Constantly buying new clothing is expensive, no matter where you buy it. So what’s a girl to do? Well, you can do one of three things: 1. don’t change anything in your purchasing techniques and spend ridiculous amounts of money, 2. fit “new clothes” into your monthly budget (if you actually keep track), or 3. buy essential items that you know will probably stick around for more than a week. Personally, I would go with the third choice – but hey, it’s your money.

Of course, going with the third choice and buying essential long-lasting items isn’t saying you can’t splurge and buy those shoes that you will probably only wear four times before a newer style comes out. It’s all about knowing where to splurge and where to save, knowing what will last and what will not.

Jeans

Photo Courtesy of jamesjeans.com

It’s important to have a pair or two of jeans that fit you just right–a pair that you feel comfortable enough in to wear to class, to football games and to go out with friends. When you find that perfect jean, hold on and don’t let go; if this means buying two, then buy two. Check out this guide to finding your perfect jean fit.

Purse

Photo Courtesy of Younkers

It’s important to invest in a purse that you can use in professional situations,especially as you enter your last couple of years of college. You don’t want to show up to a meeting with a ragged-looking bag in hand nor do you want to show up with a bag that looks like it’s your great aunt’s.

Have a purse that is sleek and tailors to your personality. You don’t have to spend a fortune on a purse if you don’t want to; stores like Forever 21 and even Target carry very affordable purses, and as long as you check to make sure all of the seams are intact before you buy it, no one will ever know and really, no one will care. Check out this article to find smart handbags and totes.

Watch

Photo Courtesy of macys.com

Watches are important accessories, but they can also be expensive. This is one of those items worth saving up for. Having a decent watch can play a big role when you walk into an interview or meeting, making you look professional and punctual. It’s a statement accessory, and something you should really put thought into before buying.

The biggest concern you should pose before purchasing is whether you wear more gold based-jewelry and outfits or if silver would be a better fit. Some great places to look for watches are Michael Kors, Fossil and Guess. You could also try JCPenney, Younkers, Dillard’s and of course the brand’s online stores.

Sensible Heels

Photo Courtesy of stevemadden.com

Every young woman should have a pair or two of heels they know they can rely on to go with virtually any outfit. With that, I would suggest keep it simple and at the very least own a pair of nude heels and a pair of black heels. It’s important that you buy a pair that you can comfortably walk in. If you have never walked in heels before, I wouldn’t suggest going out and buying a pair of stilettos right away. Start with a lower heel and work your way up.

Little Black Dress

Photo Courtesy of simplydresses.com

Ahh, the aura that comes with the “little black dress.” In all seriousness though, having a black dress on hand will prove to be very useful. You could be asked as a date to a formal or dinner out of nowhere, and what can you wear? A classy black dress. Don’t know what to wear to the career fair? The black dress paired with a blazer and your sensible heels or black flats.

A black dress can be used for both business and play, as you can dress it up or down any way you like. Also, you don’t have to spend enormous amounts of money on this item; check out stores like Forever 21 for some cost efficient options.

Rain boots

Photo Courtesy of usa.hunter-boot.com

Honestly this is probably one of the smartest purchasing decisions you will ever make. People can argue all they want, but ruining a pair of leather boots or a nice pair of shoes is like a punch in the stomach. Not to mention these glorious boots can double as snow boots if you don’t want to spend money on another pair of boots. Hunter is a great brand for rain boots, but if you’re not willing to shell out the money for them, you can find really cute ones at places like Target as well.

Coat

Photo Courtesy of vanmildert.com

Depending on where you live, coats can be necessary throughout most of the year. Oftentimes people result to wearing sweatshirts or fleece jackets, but it’s important to have a nice jacket that you can wear to important events. When picking out this jacket, look for one that you know you will wear.

If you know you will only wear that cherry-red trench coat sometimes, don’t buy it; opt for the khaki or navy colored one instead. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for a leather jacket. Leather jackets are really ideal for when the weather outside is crummy and cold, but don’t slow your outfit down with bulkiness or inconvenience. Look at stores like T.J. Maxx, Forever 21 and department stores to find a jacket at your price.

Keep up with the fashion world by purchasing items that will last through the various trends and be nice on your bank account in the long run.

 

 

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