With summer slowly approaching, it is time to revamp our closets. We focused on fashion shows and television, and we have been glued to fashion magazines praying for summer. But how do we incorporate these trends into a wardrobe we can afford, you ask? It is quite easy; you just need to take the time and effort to search! ‘Discounter’ is a scary word for many fashion students. However, if we are afraid of lower priced stores, how can we afford to stay in tune to latest trends? I promise you that you can!

When shopping for discount clothing I advise you to start with some names that you are familiar with. Macy’s and JcPenney are known for great sales. Be prepared to rummage through the racks without help to find something good. Once you have become accustomed to rummaging, you are ready for the real challenge. On my journey to find “the perfect outfit under $100,” I found that Target, Forever 21, Payless Shoes, Charlotte Russe, and JcPenney were the most helpful since each had their own unique style of clothing for me to choose from.

Forever 21 can be overwhelming; with clothes scattered throughout the store unorganized. I managed to find a few trendy pieces that are relatively low priced and look amazing together (Retro Flower Jacket $27.80 and Sheer Peasant Tee $22.80). When looking for great accessories for a good price, I strongly suggest Forever 21. At Payless Shoes I found the perfect shoes to accompany the soon-tobe outfit in as little as five minutes (brown toned sandals $16.99). A low-priced tank top to finish the outfit was a synch, a tank top ranging from $5.99- $12.99 at a local Target Store. Charlotte Russe has a great assortment of separates too. If you search, you can find pieces on great sales. These beautiful brown high waist shorts fit great, look even better, and only cost $22.99. Be sure to diversify by mix and matching items from different stores. After totaling the purchases, excluding accessories, this outfit costs $98. 57.

My advice would be to know exactly what you are looking for and how much you are willing to spend before leaving your house! Dig in; do not be afraid to try something new. Take a chance; you never know what you may find!

Fabulous clothing shifts from hangers to dresser arms, onto the slim bodies of fashion models, through the dressing area, and across the stage. The designs of many hard working Chicago designers are the focus of the night, but I’d like to give some attention to the girls in black who were backstage. Dressing events are like candy to the fashion marketing and fashion design students at AI. A last minute call had me rushing into black shiny leggings, a scoop backed black t-shirt, a black thrifted mini dress jumper, and my grandma’s old low-heeled black pumps. I jumped on the train and sped down Michigan Avenue to a Columbia College fashion show. Backstage with me were at least five other AI fashion girls dressed to kill in nothing but black.