Clothes shopping on a budget

By Charlotte Flanagan

Looking stylish at university doesn't have to empty your bank account. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can dress well on a student budget!

Start with second-hand shops. Leamington Spa and Coventry are packed with great charity shops like Myton Hospice, Oxfam Boutique and the British Heart Foundation, and all just a quick bus ride away. You’ll find vintage clothing items, and even unworn high street pieces for a fraction of retail prices. Coventry’s FarGo VillageLink opens in a new window is another must-visit, with pop-up vintage markets and indie stalls that won’t break the bank.

Don’t pay full price unless you must. Use platforms like UNiDAYSLink opens in a new window, Student BeansLink opens in a new window, and TOTUMLink opens in a new window for year-round discounts at shops like ASOS, Boohoo, and Urban Outfitters. Warwick’s own guide to student savingsLink opens in a new window is also worth checking out.

For a free wardrobe refresh, try a clothing swap. Keep an eye on the Student Union wasteless pageLink opens in a new window as they often run swap shops where you trade your old clothes for new-to-you pieces. It’s sustainable, free, and a fun way to discover your next outfit. Check Warwick’s Paperclip platformLink opens in a new window and the Facebook group Fashion Exchange at WarwickLink opens in a new window for more information!

When shopping new, local spots like Cannon Park and Royal Priors offer affordable basics. They have stores that offer basics for a good price, and even better with student discount! These are ideal for students, especially during sales. Try building a small collection of versatile essentials like plain t-shirts, good jeans, and one staple jacket. You’ll get more wear out of each item, which saves money in the long run.

For something more personal and a bit of fun, upcycling is a great idea. Adding patches, cropping old shirts, or turning jeans into shorts can add a new vibe into your wardrobe. There are endless DIY ideas on TikTok or YouTube, and this is a great idea to do with your flatmates.

Don’t forget online marketplaces either. DepopLink opens in a new window and VintedLink opens in a new window, offer pre-loved items sold at massive discounts. These websites offer convenient delivery, so you get the shopping experience without contributing to fast fashion and with low prices! However, make sure to be safe if meeting up or arranging collections.

Lastly, keep an eye on what you're spending. Apps like MonzoLink opens in a new window help track your budget and avoid impulse purchases. You can enable settings that allow for you to check your spending by category so you can see if you are overspending in this area! A simple limit on clothing spend per month can go a long way.

For further money-related support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.uk), phone (024 7615 0096), or come to the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).