One of the best parts of college is being able to go out with your friends on the weekend to blow off some steam. But when you live in a place where the weekend can sometimes start as early as Tuesday or Wednesday, finding something new and cute to wear out every night can become a challenge, especially since many of us are trying to stick to a budget.

Luckily, Binghamton is not devoid of places to shop and a majority of students looking to update their wardrobes will probably take a trip to the Oakdale Mall, located in Johnson City, at least once a semester. While you might think you have to break the bank to buy new clothes fit for a night out, think again. Believe it or not, with a little bit of patience and tactful shopping, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a suitable weekend outfit; in fact this entire outfit was completed for less than $50.

1. Don’t fear the clearance rack

Although you might be quick to avoid these confusing, sometimes disorganized racks of clothes, don’t! If you take the time to go through the clearance rack, you might be surprised at the number of items you find yourself picking up and taking to the fitting room. The Macy’s store at the Oakdale Mall now has $5 and $9 racks where you can find great things. Stores like Charlotte Russe and Rue 21 also have a bunch of clearance racks brimming with Downtown-worthy dresses, tops and accessories.

Remember that they don’t call it a clearance rack for nothing. Sales associates want to get rid of their clearance items, and often you can profit off being a discriminating, slightly irritating shopper. If you can manage to find a slight imperfection, such as a loose thread or quirky zipper, you can easily get an additional 50% off. This draped top from Charlotte Russe cost a mere $6 on clearance with a 10% student discount.

2. Credit card? You got it

Lots of stores offer discounts off your entire purchase if you sign up for a store credit card or club card. When you sign up for a card, many stores will also send you monthly coupons and special offers. These sleek skinny jeans cost a mere $16 at Mandee after signing up for a credit card. Taking a few extra minutes to fill out a short form is worth it for that 15% discount.

3. Seasons change — jewelry, not so much

Lots of stores will have huge jewelry sales when the seasons change. Right now, as stores are transitioning from summer to fall, you can get a lot of accessories for a fraction of the cost. While some of the pieces may seem more suited to the summer months, you can usually find neutral pieces that will work at any time of the year. This ring, pair of earrings, bangles and layered necklace each cost just 99 cents.

4. Just ask

No matter where you like to shop, it can never hurt to ask if there are discounts. Most stores will offer at least one. Payless ShoeSource at the Oakdale Mall, for instance, offers a 10% discount if you have AAA car insurance.

When it comes to shoes and going out, you can’t go wrong with a versatile pair of black pumps. You can get this comfortable pair for only $17 at Payless.

One of the most important weekend necessities is, of course, the handbag or wristlet that holds your keys, phone and money when you venture off campus. You can also get this wristlet for only $5.99 at Payless.