Cheap Feat Profile: Emily Albis

      In a world full of fashionable people, it can take a true fashionista to be stylish on a budget. College student Emily Albis may just be one of these truly chic people.

      Albis is a sophomore at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., a seasonal city where temperatures can vary by the day. Albis describes her sense of style as all over the place.

      “I tend to go beachy or boho when it’s warm out and, in the winter, I dress somewhat on the edgier side,” Albis adds. Although her style is constantly evolving, there is one element that remains the same — comfort.

      The Virginia Beach, Va. native is used to the sand, water and laid-back style when it comes to her fashion. Every time she goes home, she makes a stop at Wave Riding Vehicles. PacSun has become a new favorite as well. Similar to Wave Riding Vehicles, PacSun carries California-styled clothing for men and women.

      “The weather is a big factor for me. The moment it starts to transition from cold to warm or warm to cold, I have to run out and buy seasonal clothes,” Albis says.

      When it comes to wardrobe essentials, Target is her go-to store. Thrift shopping is also a favorite of Albis.

      “I love going to the Salvation Army Family Store because it always has so much and my mom and I recently discovered a store called Second Chance Thrift that benefits the SPCA [Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals],” Albis says.

      She usually manages to find something when thrift shopping. “I literally go through every aisle because I’m never really looking for something specific,” Albis adds.

      Sometimes that can be the best way to shop. Instead of trying to look for one particular item, Albis lets the clothing come to her.

Emily Albis wears a dress and jean shirt while visiting the National Mall, April 7, 2013, in Washington. Albis and her friends took advantage of the nice weather and the cherry blossoms. (Photo/Megan Marcus)

      Albis and her friend have been shopping at thrift stores for a few years and both used to get teased for their unique clothing choice. Some friends “would roll their eyes at us and say that we were weird,” Albis says.

      Crew neck sweatshirts and sweaters that were made for guys make up a good portion of Albis’ wardrobe. She says, occasionally, this unisex attire would lead to the ‘why do you dress like a boy’ question.

      Albis has a passion for fashion and even if she gets a few weird looks from people, she wears her outfits proudly. She also knows just how to create a great look without spending too much.

      Stores like Target and PacSun carry quality clothing at pocket-friendly prices and thrift stores not only provide a great place to find clothing on a budget, but, most of the time, the store’s proceeds benefit a good cause.