General Saving Tips For Your Closet

In a world where binging is the new black (Netflix, I'm looking at you), it's easy to go a little crazy when everything is so accessible and doesn't even necessarily require you to get out of your bed. I'm guilty of it myself sometimes, but one of the easiest ways to save money in regards to your wardrobe, and in general, is definitely to avoid impulsive buys, particularly when it comes to online shopping. Hide your credit/debit card if you have to! 
It can be hard to resist, but you're bank account/long term savings plan will thank you for it later. 

When you're physically shopping and see something you love, there's often a thought process that if you don't get it now, then you'll never get it and then you'll regret not making the purchase. To this I would recommend that if you at least make sure you try whatever it is on first! Think about whether you'll realistically wear something in reality, and what else you will wear it with. Think about the quality of the product to - whether it will last. 

If you insist on buying something that's designer, it's a good idea to opt for small things like accessories instead of spending (even more of) a fortune on that brand. 

Finally, don't be afraid to rent or hire outfits for special occasions like a university formal or ball. There are some great ones on Instagram like @rentadressau or @hiringwardrobe. That way, you can wear what may be your dream dress or brand without spending a fortune on something you might only wear once!

What to eat when procrastination sets in!

When students are studying, procrastination may kick in and tell your brain your hungry. It’s a proven fact that engaging in strenuous mental activity increases hunger and calorie intake. Most people turn to unhealthy snacks such as chocolate and lollies to get the instant sugar buzz, however, these snacks decrease concentration at a rapid rate after the 20-minute buzz. Here is a list of snacks that can assist in improving brain power of which are easily accessible and easy on the wallet. 

Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, bananas and oranges are all cheap fruits that can be purchased at the local supermarket. (Coles, Woolworths, Aldi, IGA). These fruits contain multiple vitamins and carbs that assist with brainpower. Although these fruits can contain high amounts of sugar, they are balanced out with the fiber, calcium, potassium and protein that they provide.

Blueberries (Super food) are one of the best options to consume while studying. They are a little more expensive in terms of fruit (approximately $5-$8 per punnet depending on the season) However they are full of antioxidants as well as increasing learning capacity. 

Carrots are also a good option to snack on as you can combine it with other things to increase the variety of flavour. A good mix is Carrot and Hummus. Hummus is cheap ($4 per tub) and can be added to biscuits, celery, carrot and even corn chips. 

Nuts are common and beneficial snacks to eat as there are so many different types, each containing their own health benefits. The best ones for study are: Almonds and Peanuts. To create a variation of flavour, A Trail mix is also a good option as you can combine these nuts with dried fruit in a small bag and eat it on the go!

Some others good snacks include: Eggs, Dark Chocolate, Avocado, Peanut butter, Pretzels and Greek Yoghurt.

All of these foods can be bought from Coles, Woolworths, IGA, ALDI or a local fruit shop.

Why ASOS Is A Lifesaver

It may be mainstream and obvious, but ASOS is truly a lifesaver for students. An online fashion and beauty store originating in Britain, it is literally your one stop shop, and a very affordable one at that. In an increasingly fast-paced and digitalised world, online shopping is often the easiest option. Aside from just convenience, it’s also a good place to shop if you want international trends in your wardrobe, as these are available. 

It's never been easier to look like you've spent a lot without actually spending a lot. The aesthetics are great. You can sort low to high while still finding great items! How rarely does that happen?!

I bought a fair few items that arrived last week (pictured above), which came to around $230 – not bad for nearly an impulsive, whole new summer wardrobe.

I'm not here to tell you what exactly you should buy, because ASOS really has everything. Although of course, as is common knowledge, start with basics and then move to more specific items of clothing (i.e. make sure you have plain bottoms before buying patterned tops). 

However, I would recommend that if you are unsure of sizing (you vary from item to item etc.) then it’s probably a good idea to avoid getting that item altogether – after all, doubt means don’t. It will also be a money saver, as the downside to any form of online shopping is you can return, but you have to pay for postage which usually isn’t that cheap.

Dressing Like A Professional

The August 2015 edition of Vogue Australia features articles on two highly powerful and inspirational women – our recent Deputy Prime Minister Julie Bishop and, perhaps unexpectedly for some, Victoria Beckham.

Sometimes what you wear can really transform your confidence – I know dressing like these two ladies would definitely make me feel like I could take on the world. They are often wearing structured ensembles, which are perfect to emulate if your part time job is in a professional environment.

Victoria’s own ready to wear collection mostly features sleek, smart pencil dresses but aren’t exactly justifiable price wise for the average student.

For both men and women, you can find great dupes from the likes of Zara, ASOS, GAP, J Crew, Uniqlo and which are all good quality.

Victoria Beckham dress (https://www.victoriabeckham.com/ready-to-wear/back-tab-t-shirt-fitted-16.html), $1250, versus:

Zara Dress, $50

http://www.zara.com/us/en/woman/dresses/view-all/mid-length-tube-dress-c733885p3004575.html 

For even cheaper options, you can get some very inexpensive shirts from places like Cotton On and H&M.

H&M men's blazer $79.95

http://www.hm.com/au/product/56281?article=56281-C 

Cotton On shirt $29.95

http://cottonon.com/AU/p/cotton-on-women/giselle-cotton-shirt-2/2024648717937.html#start=1 

If you're super strapped for cash (and let's face it, most of us are), then don't doubt places like Target and Kmart for corporate attire!