By Diego Ugaz
Just because you’re sacrificing to pay for school doesn’t mean you have to forgo the desire to outfit yourself with new clothes this winter.
The smart shopper knows where to pick his battles and where to find the best deals, but for those too busy to browse we’ve done some of the homework for you. Here are some tips for finding the best and most affordable pieces for winter:
Japanese brand Uniqlo has a great bomber jacket for only $40 in three different colors with a sleeve zip pocket, as well as an inner pocket. Uniqlo can also can take care of all your layering needs – they have solid color T-shirts from as low as $6, fleece jackets, cardigans, and sweaters from $20.
If bomber jackets are not your style, H&M has more options for you. For just $50 dollars you can get yourself a padded winter jacket that will last you into the late stages of winter. For the guys who like vests, they’ve got you covered with a nice khaki green/navy blue piece for about $35.
Put Your Foot Down
To get through those wet snowy days good footwear is a must. Though boots tend to run on the more expensive side, you can grab a pair of Steve Madden, Perry Ellis, Lugs, or Dockers for $50 and under. When it comes to boots you have to think of them as a long-term investment because a good pair will last you at least two years, so don’t be afraid to spend over $40 on a nice pair. For everyday footwear, you can always depend on Vans; they have endless amounts of designs and styles and usually they run on the cheaper side.
An alternative option to all of these stores is a thrift store. Though this requires a bit more knowledge of local stores and how they can vary by location, a good thrift store can be a gold mine. Being a Union City/Weehawken native, the Salvation Army (right on the border of Jersey City and Union City) on Kennedy Boulevard is one place I know of with a large selection. It can be a bit intimidating because of its size but diligence goes a long way in this spot.
Gus Franco, a junior who majors in Accounting said, “I think people forget how good hats and beanies can be in the winter, they’re not too expensive and they really keep you warm.” Though he confessed to having a taste for the more expensive stuff, he said he shops online to help him find high-end stuff for low-end prices. “Jackthreads has hundreds of brands and a bunch of sales,” Franco said. He was right too; we found plenty of quality winter hats for under $20. He also mentioned that the brand Rocksmith has great beanies for under $30.
We also spoke to Justin Oceguera, a sophomore and Environmental and Geo-science major who avoids shopping online. “I do my shopping in store because fit is important and that’s something you can’t get from a picture and a description.” He made a great point, and also mentioned that since he skates, comfort is a great point of consideration when shopping. That is one of the biggest struggles of dressing; how much comfort are we willing to sacrifice for fashion? Though that is up to personal opinion the winter is no time for experimentation, but more about practicality. Now that you have some options, the rest is up to you. Get out there, save some money, but most importantly – stay warm.