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The Goodwill Top, Abercrombie & Fitch Jeggings, Forever 21 Flats, The Goodwill Purse, Forever 21 Sunglasses

Dressing chic doesn’t have to be costly—at least not in my opinion. For me, a fashion student/newspaper editor/shopaholic, maintaining a budget and looking great with simple fashion pieces is key. I’m a frequent thrift store shopper and clearance rack scavenger—and I’m not ashamed. I’m proud of my deals. Any woman can walk into a Coach store and purchase a leather handbag for $150+; it takes a true fashion enthusiast to search countless racks at a thrift store in search of a hidden treasure {Psst! I also snagged a genuine leather bag for only $5!}.

What makes this look great is each piece {except the jeggings—purchased with my former Abercrombie & Fitch employee discount} was snagged for under $10. Seriously. The striped top was found amidst a $3 rack; the purse wore a tag of $7.99; the flats were part of a BOGO at Forever 21—I landed them and a pair of sandals for only $7; and my fave sunglasses were $5.

Shopping on a budget is easier and more fun than you think. Try it out, and hey? Let me know how it goes!