One of the most difficult things about being a responsible college student is trying to adjust to a budget. After all, we’re career-minded and focused on our studies, but letting loose on the weekends is just as important as class; we’ve all reached that point where we feel like we are going to explode if we don’t talk to someone about anything but the big paper that is due next week!
But unfortunately, some of the easiest ways to blow off steam involve spending money. And for us girls who have a love for fashion, it is important to make strategic decisions when we are spending, so we have just enough to rent a fabulous Rent the Runway dress for a big weekend out! So here are some tips for when to save and when to splurge!
SPLURGE – Headphones
Not only are good headphones known to drastically improve sound quality of music, but they are crucial to listening to the dramatic nuances of “Call Me Maybe”, or whatever your favorite song happens to be. So it is absolutely worth it to spend a little more, so you can rock out in style!
Beats Solo HD - Raspberry (Source Beats by Dr.Dre)
And according to research done by the Harvard Business Review, people are innately more productive when wearing headphones, which is great news for a music-loving college student!
SAVE – Girls Night In
Any hardworking girl needs a night of rest and relaxation every once in a while. But that doesn’t mean that you need to break the bank and invest in designer bubble bath.
Snuggle Time (Source - All Togs Duvet UK)
- Stick your favorite PJs and blanket in the dryer for a fluff cycle, and snuggle up right after they come out.
- Pop on your favorite movie from your personal collection, or troll the new additions of Netflix for a chick flick.
- Gather your best friends around you and laugh, cry and gossip the night away.
SPLURGE / SAVE – Retail Therapy
Sometimes the best thing to do when you’re stressed out is online shopping, which is probably why I have my favorite shopping websites blocked whenever midterms or finals roll around. But for all of us shopaholics, here are some ground rules.
- Save on trends. The stores Forever 21 and H&M exist for these pieces. They are super cute, but they may not be in fashion come the spring, so its okay if they wear out after a few months.
Metallic Collar Blouse (Source - Forever 21)
- Splurge on staples. These pieces, like a solid cardigan or a good pair of jeans, will always be in style and can be worn with anything. So don’t be afraid to spend a little bit more on these, because the longer they last you, the closer they get to being your signature!
J. Crew Cardigan - Source J.Crew
And if you want a little more inspiration about how to decide what is truly important to spend your money on, check out this video, from the Institute for Communitarian Policy Studies at George Washington University.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=FN3z8gtDUFE
http://www.renttherunway.com/elon
Libby S has 12 post(s) on RTR On Campus
