It’s got to that annoying time of year where every time you leave the house you have to ask yourself ‘coat or no coat’? The summer to autumn changeover is always a tricky one, it’s hard enough to have to say goodbye to your gladiator sandals for another year, never mind having to fork out for an entire new wardrobe. But for students with limited funds this isn’t an option (especially seeing as our tiny student rooms simply don’t have the closet space), so we’ve kindly scouted out some autumn essentials that won’t see you into the red as soon as your brand new loan has just arrived. We’re cleverly keeping our summer wardrobe but swapping in some warmer must haves to see us through the colder season.
The first step is swapping your sandals for some cosy boots. Footwear sections of all of the high streets shops are full to the brim with deliciously tempting boots, meaning you’ll have as much choice as a kid in a candy shop. Alternatively recycle last year’s Uggs (always the student favourite) but remember to give them another coat of Ugg protection spay to see them through the autumn showers. Last year’s chunky knit socks are also recyclable and worn just peeping above your boots give a fashionable edge.
Next swap flimsy summer cardigans for a funky blazer or a classic mac. Both are perfect solutions to the ‘coat or no coat’ situation and let’s face it, we’re desperate to get at least one of them. Again, student budgets mean we need to hit the high street, All Saints have some gorgeous mac’s, they’re a little on the expensive side but what the heck, they’re an investment! If you really need to keep an eye on your pennies take a look in peacocks for a bargain blazer.
The next essential is a chunky cardy, this is an absolute wardrobe staple and vital for allowing you to wear your summer dresses through autumn. Topshop’s knit section is huge this time of year or instead give York’s vintage shops a visit to dig out a more individual piece. Ebay is also a good place to look, and after being hit hard by the credit crunch chances are your unlikely to be outbid.
These three absolute essentials should see you through autumn rather stylishly and hold off the shopping addiction until winter.