All the items featured in the guide are with retailers who offer student discount with the NUS Extra card, so not only will you look good, you’ll also have some money left to go out and show yourself off.
The Jacket
The peacoat is everywhere this season. It’s easy, warm and isn’t too formal. It looks good with everything and being double-breasted makes you look neat and tidy by simply buttoning it up. This great one from Topman is cropped which gives it a younger edge.
The Jeans
Jeans are probably the item of clothing you wear most so it is worth spending a bit more money. Just because jeans are worn day through evening doesn’t mean you shouldn’t change. Wear a lighter denim with optional distressing during the day and at night go pristine in dark denim. Stick to regular or slim fit. Skinny is okay if you are thin enough, if not, go safe with regular fit.
The Shoe
Desert boots are the shoe of the winter season. This is an unbelievable price so you shouldn’t worry too much about the suede. Wear with everything.
The Checked Shirt
The check shirt has been around for a few seasons, but it still looks fresh. There are so many to choose from, but the devil is in the detailing. Look at buttons, pockets and stitching. You want the fabric to be thin and soft, this slim-fit Topman version has nice pockets on the front in a cute blue colour.
The Denim Shirt
The Denim shirt is back. It is the epitome of American workwear. Everybody would like a vintage one but finding them is very hard, this one is slightly darker and distressed with a nice checked detail in the collar.
The Bag
Would you believe it? The coolest bag shape at the moment. the nerdy rucksack. It is actually really practical and looks sporty. Keep it low-key, go for a dark colour with minimal branding.
The Top
Keep logos and graphics to a minimum, you’re the star attraction, the clothes should just enhance that. Great price for a basic. Fashion is all about layering this season. Layer over shirts and T-shirts.
The Boot
A student classic. Pair with slim jeans and go all out skinhead. Looks good outside the trouser. Should last the whole of your university life and beyond.
Final Words of Advice
What you save on some things, spend on others. You should spend more money on jackets, footwear and jeans and less on T-shirts and shirts.
Fit is the most important. If it doesn’t fit properly you won’t look or feel good and if you look good, you’ll feel good.
Mix it up, don’t buy all from the same place, buy some high street and if you can stretch to it, buy some more expensive pieces. Vintage and charity shops are very good to look individual on a budget but you need to put the time in or be lucky.
Enjoy yourself, it’s great to care about how you look but don’t get too hung up on things, if things get ruined or lost then they should be easy to replace.
It’s not a competition, it’s about making the best of yourself as an individual.
The high street power-house of looking good on a budget Topman is increasing its student discount to 15% from 7 September to 18 October 2009. This is also valid on their website.
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