TEEN BIZ fashion
Being Fashionable
On A Budget by Malikah Thompson, Sophomore, King College Prep
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tyle says a lot about a person, and rocking a stylish outfit can sometimes mean putting a hurting on your wallet, which won’t be hard to do if you don’t have much money to begin with. But just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you have to dress like it. There are plenty of stores with hot trends at low prices that can make you look good and give you more for your buck. Krystal Giles, a freshman of South Shore High School, says that she is always on the hunt for hot deals at stores that sell nice clothes. “My favorite store is Marshalls because even on the clearance rack you can get a deal. They sell designer clothes at good prices” says Giles. Wardrobe stylist/fashion editor Shannon Davis says that when shopping for the perfect outfit, teens should set out to get their money’s worth. “You always want to make sure that you’re getting the best for your money and buying cheap does not always ensure that you’re getting the best quality. It’s better to spend your money on pieces that will last, that are interchangeable, and will survive the ever changing fashion trends.” 18 TRUE STAR MAGAZINE
Davis adds that there are many stores that give good deals to teens looking for fashionable, long-lasting clothes such as Macy’s, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, TJ Maxx, Stein Mart, H&M and Nordstrom Rack. Although you may have to search harder for the more fashionable pieces, thrift stores also give shoppers an affordable shopping experience. Mariah Johnson, 15, a die-hard thrifter and a student at the Women’s Leadership Charter School, says that many people underestimate the value of thrift stores. “Thrift stores are so convenient and cheap. Sometimes you can find clothes that still have tags on them for super low prices. So many people think of thrift stores as hand-me-downs, but that’s not always the case.” The best ones to go to are in the Wicker Park area, and on North Belmont Avenue, according to Davis. In order to stay ahead of the crowd for fall and winter, Davis advises teens to look for colors like orange, chocolate, deep yellow, and forest green. Clothes like darkdenim jeans, leather knee-high boots, and military coats will also be the ‘in’ things to wear this season.