Affordable Brands
by Rebecca Golub
Photography courtesy of Nitant Narang
Top Four Choices:
Zara: This Spanish, fast-fashion retailer carries high-fashion European looks at a lower price. Zara supplies styles ranging from trendy to classic. So, whether you consider yourself a conservative dresser or you enjoy experimenting with trends, this retailer is sure to satisfy your personal preferences! Zara is particularly good for finding inexpensive interview outfits. Many of their designs are comparable to Moda Operandi pants, Gucci heels and Aquazzura flats. If you do not love Zara enough already, the company adopted the sustainable fashion movement. Zara is looking out for the planet by using recyclable boxes and encouraging shoppers to donate their clothes.
ASOS: This U.K. retailer offers discounts on the regular––need I say more? Most days, discounts specifically target students as “students get 20 percent off.” ASOS sources from multiple retailers, including second-hand vintage sellers, over 30 external brands and its very own ‘Eco Edit’ line. With such an abundant selection, anyone can be sure to find something to satisfy their style.
Forever 21: Forever 21 is an American student’s go-to for fast fashion. Quick, cheap and on-trend, Forever 21’s looks accommodate all personalities and occasions. So, if you are trying to find the ideal look for a day at the beach, a movie-night in pajamas, the first day of classes or a night out, you are bound to find something at Forever––and at almost unbeatable prices. The retailer even offers a 20 percent discount by UNIDAYS with frequent flash sales!
Topshop: Lucky for you, discounts are a trend across the board at affordable fashion brands, and Topshop is no exception. Topshop offers a 20 percent UNIDAYS discount for students. Achieving the perfect Brit-inspired street-style look is made easy with this U.K. brand, which supplies shoppers with high-quality clothing at a variety of price-points. A fashion favorite for many reasons, Topshop’s bold pieces add a European, high-fashion flair to any style from athleisure to professional-chic.
Other Brands to Keep In Mind:
Target: Here you can find trendy clothing, accessories and basics at extremely low-prices, all while doing your grocery shopping! Convenience is key. Even more, Target tends to do fashion collaborations with some of the most reputable designer names in the business like Jason Wu and Missoni.
Tobi: If the ‘all-first time shoppers’ discount of 50 percent off your entire purchase is not enough to pull you in, then the edgy, affordable and on-trend styles just might be. Excelling in cool-girl-going-out pieces, this site should be the prime shopping destination for inexpensive formal dresses.
Francesca’s: This store offers womenswear looks for any occasion at a reasonable price, an occasional applied discount and free shipping on all orders when you spend at least $60. Also, Francesca’s is a great gift-getting destination for anyone on a college budget. Check out all the cute knick-knacks such as funny wine glasses, books, birthday cards and handbags. And, since it is fall, keep your eyes peeled for fun Halloween items!