How to become the ultimate Recessionista
By Molly McGonigle
This past year has put the country in the worst economic situation its seen since the Great Depression, forcing people to cut back on their spending.
Considering the major economic crisis that the United States is facing, a lot of changes are taking place that affect how college students spend their limited money on the newest trends.
College students are often left with a very tight budget, and spending money on trendy items is especially difficult. Many people are looking for ways to cut back on their spending without drastically changing their desire for new products.
Here are a couple of ways people are cutting corners, saving money and still buying. These tips can help you become the ultimate Recessionista.
Buffalo Exchange offers people the opportunity to trade in their unwanted clothes in exchange for clothes that other people have traded in. From sweaters and pants to shoes and purses, Buffalo Exchange has a wide variety of clothes to choose from, so people with all types of styles are sure to be satisfied.
The best part about Buffalo Exchange is that you won't have to shell out all of the money that would be spent at a department store for similar items. Check it out on Haight Street in San Francisco, or go to www.buffaloexchange.com.
Flea markets and thrift stores provide cheap items and you can often find great accessories or basic staples there. These types of venues give people the chance to find diverse and fun pieces that would normally be much more expensive. Both flea markets and thrift stores have everything from plants and furniture to clothes and jewelry. Just by digging around, you are sure to find items that provide an alternative to the mainstream items available in chain stores.
Take a chance with different avenues of consumerism to keep your wallet full and your desire for change fulfilled. Check out Savers at 2222 Business Circle in San Jose or the San Jose Flea Market every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1590 Berryessa Road.
Giveaway boxes amongst friends provide a free and easy way to swap out old items for new ones. All you need to do is bring a few items you are tired of to the table and then switch with friends for the pieces they are getting rid of.
This new year shows a lot of unique and promising ways to stand apart and declare your individuality and with a thrifty attitude, you can find a way to do this at inexpensive prices.
Bright colors are making a major entrance during the new year. Whether as accessories or staple pieces, bright colors offer a chance to overcome the dreariness of this winter season.
One of the newest and hottest colors for the year is yellow. Both men and women can add a pop of yellow, or any other color, with scarves, headbands or socks.
High-top Converse shoes are making a large return to both men's and women's shoe collections. Tuck them into skinny jeans or pair them with leggings or tights to create a retro look. Available on the Converse Web site, these high-top shoes come in a wide variety of colors that are sure to brighten up any outfit.
Boots of all kinds and colors are essential fashion statements during the winter season. The best part about this trend is that any kind of boots -- cowboy, Dr. Martin or ankle boots -- are good investments for the entire year.
The wide variety of boots available all over the place allow for unique outfits and warm toes this winter season.
Big, shiny watches have hit the mainstream stage with a bang. From Kanye West to Rihanna, all of the celebrities sport large and outrageous watches to draw a lot of attention.
Pseudo-Rolex watches in gold or silver are the most popular. Pair up a watch with a big bangle or keep it alone. The bigger the size, the more attention you are sure to draw from admirers. All stores from Target to Bloomingdale's are promoting watches that can add a unique piece to a regular outfit.
Contact Molly McGonigle at mmcmonigle@scu.edu at (408) 551-1918.