I attend Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. Many people say that Corvallis is the quintessential college town: a little bit of urban, plenty of rural, and many local businesses that have been around for decades. Corvallis isn’t even 1% the size the New York City. We don’t have a Target, a Walmart, or a mall. This, as my fellow small-town girls know, makes shopping a challenge.

In Corvallis, if you’re a fashionista craving a shopping trip, you hit the the racks at consignment shops, discount stores, and the Goodwill. Many people think, “Goodwill? Ew, gross!” But with the right skills and some good hand sanitizer, thrifting is the most budget friendly way to shop.

Below, I’ll share my tips for thrift shopping in a small college town. Whether you go to school in a tiny town, too, or just want to be more frugal, these tips will help you save money and look fabulous.

{RELATED POST: The Best Online Thrift Stores to Shop from Home}

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Original Retail Price – approx. $180-$250

Outfit Inspiration

(Shirt, Jeans, Scarf, Oxfords, Charm Bracelet, Ring)

A camel-colored blazer like this one is a fabulous find because it can be worn so many different ways. Here, I paired it with a basic striped shirt, some simple cuffed jeans, and trendy oxfords in a matching shade. Finish the look off with some choice accessories like a colorful scarf and unique ring.

2. Faux Frye Boots

Mossimo (Target) Faux Frye Boots

Thrift Store Price – $29 at the Goodwill in Beaverton, OR

Original Retail Price – $49.99

Outfit Inspiration

(Dress, Belt, Bracelet, Hat)

These faux Frye boots were already a great deal, offered for just $49 at Target (compare that to $200+ for the Frye version). However, that deal got even sweeter when I found the same boots marked down to just $29 at Goodwill! It’s not uncommon to find gently-used Target or other chain store items like these for a fraction of the original price.