Money Week blog of the day – how to style for less

We can all feel the pressure to fit in or feel a sense of belonging at some time in our lives and being at university can often compound this feeling.We want to be accepted but also embrace difference and be unique. And certainly here at Brighton, there is no such thing as a “typical” student (and thank goodness for that!)

Wearing the right clothes, trainers, make up or having the right eyebrows or beard can all get a bit complicated, so whatever your taste or trait – vive la  difference!

Here are some suggestions on styling for less:

This article from the Guardian, somewhat out of date, but much of the advice is still relevant now

If you are a shopper and the budget allows, always use your NUS card. Some stores offer discounts all year round, whereas others have seasonal flash sales for students at certain times of the year. If you like a particular store, get a job there – as many offer part time staff generous discounts.

Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne all have a wide range of charity shops where you can browse for a new wardrobe at a fraction of the high street price. If you’re creative (or have a friend who is!) try your hand at upcycling or customising. Make friends with you tube and you’ll never look back! Another crafty tip is try mending your clothing fails rather than paying for repairs or
replacing with new. If you fancy combining getting together with friends and getting your hands on some new clothes, try hosting a clothes swap. This can work particularly well in Halls if the whole flat ot a couple of flats get involved. Just make sure you set some sturdy ground rules!

As for hair styling and other beauty bargain seekers, pay a visit to a College for a trim, colour, wax or facial. Both City College in Brighton and Sussex Downs in Eastbourne offer trainee treatements on the cheap. If you prefer the more upmarket experience, many of the highbrow salons offer trainee specials. If you’re planning a trip up to London, the Vidal Sassoon training salon are often looking for models, but you may not get a say in the ‘do’ on offer and you do need to book in advance. For those less keen on experimenting, sign up to online deals through LivingSocial, Groupon, Wowcher and the like for a special treat.

 

 

 

 

If you fancy dipping your toe into the world of making your own cosmetics, especially if you’re conscientious about ingredients and you want to go natural, you could do worse than invest in a book which tell you what you need and where to start. It may cost to get started, but if you buy on Amazon (other online stores are available) you can use your NUS discount too. Or if you prefer to browse in person, try cheap outlets like The Works who have stores in Eastbourne, Hastings and Brighton. Once you’re up and running these can aso make lovely bespoke gifts for friends and family. Want to avoid products that have been tested on animals? Look no further than PETA.

The Student Advice Service will be on campus at Grand Parade today between 12 – 2pm. We’ll be somewhere on the ground floor, near the cafe – just look for the money tree and smiley Advisers. Come and say hello, grab a freebie and ask any of your money questions. See you there!

Student Advice Service