WHERE?

Mill Road: Home to some of the best Cambridge charity shops, this is the best budget-friendly shopping spot in the city. Check out local favourite Sally Ann’s. £

The Grafton Centre: A five to ten minute walk from the city centre, the Grafton is a great place to pick up a bargain. Visit for Primark and an impressive array of charity shops. Varsity recommends the particularly well-stocked British Heart Foundation. £

Trinity Street/ Rose Crescent: Along the cobbled streets of one of Cambridge’s most picturesque areas sit Whistles, Jaeger and French Connection. A Jack Wills also temptingly awaits just across the road. Hardly within usual student budget territory, these stores are perfect for a spot of indulgence, some retail therapy when an essay crisis is imminent, and for special occasions, such as May Ball shopping. £££

EVENTS

The Grand Arcade’s Student Night
Wednesday 7th October, 4.30pm
A few days after student loans come in, and for one exciting night only, the Grand Arcade in the centre of town opens its doors to offer exclusive student discounts from some of the best high street shops. Students can receive 30 per cent off retail prices in Levis, and 20 per cent off in Topshop and Ted Baker. There will also be free hand massages to soothe your bag-laden fingers, free lash extensions and the chance to eat at Ed’s Diner at half price. Post-shopping milkshake, anyone?

Judy’s Affordable Vintage Fair

Saturday 17th October, 10.30am-4.30pm, The Guildhall
Judy’s is perhaps the most exciting fashion event in Cambridge. The £2 entry is well worth it as the Guildhall transforms into a vintage paradise, with countless stalls selling everything from original Fred Perry shirts to decadent sequined jumpsuits that look as though they have come straight from Studio 54. Charming 1920’s brooches are displayed on tables decorated in a WW2 tea-party aesthetic. Vintage Yves Saint Laurent scarves have been available at £20. Get there early to find the best hidden gems.

INDEPENDENT STORES

ARK
Prepare to be transported back to the fifties; pastel kitten heels and cashmere gloves adorn shelves, alongside displays of ornate tapestry handbags. Although not the most budget-friendly of shops, a purchase from ARK is sure to be a classic and a charming addition to any wardrobe.

Nomads
Often described as an ‘Aladdin’s cave’, Nomads on King’s Parade is one of Cambridge’s most coveted independent havens. Inside it holds a range of stunning Asian textiles and home furnishings, making for unique present opportunities. Highlights include silk scarves from the Kullu Valley and authentic gemstone jewellry that gives any outfit a bohemian lift.

Jemporium Vintage
Featuring original pieces from every decade since 1950, this is an unmissable second-hand treasure chest tucked away in the Grafton Centre. Don’t let the 10 minute walk out of town put you off; the range of individual, authentic pieces is exceptional, and led to it being noted in Vogue’s list of the best vintage shops outside of London in April 2015.

The Cambridge Satchel Company
Founded by Caius alumna Julie Deane, The Cambridge Satchel Company has developed a cult following, with celebrity fans including Alexa Chung and Zooey Deschanel. An ideal investment for any student looking to combine elegance and practicality. If you time your shop right, last season’s stock can appear in sales of up to 50 per cent.