Chic and Cheap: Must Haves for Spring Break on a College Budget

It's a typical winter morning. You've finally dragged yourself out of bed after hitting the snooze button more than once, and you're left with just enough time to throw on a pair of sweatpants, dig your feet into your UGGS, and run out the door in a frenzy.

You realize on your walk to the train station that your oh-so-precious boots are developing small tears. But you're a college student! You can't afford a new pair of boots! What are you thinking?! Never mind the boots! Spring break is only two weeks away and your friends have already warned you that they won't be seen on the beaches of Jamaica with you if you don't burn those sweatpants and get a new wardrobe.

Considering you've already shelled out a good grand or so just to GET to warmer weather, how can you scrounge up enough to look good while your there? Oh, the agony of being both warm AND fashionable.

Well there's some good news and bad news. The bad news is, you can't become a fashion plate for free. The good news is, it can be done for cheap. Hip retailers like H&M and Old Navy are offering top-notch, must-have fashion accessories in their new spring lines, and the best part is; they are all under 50 bucks! So throw away those sweatpants and head to your local mall. This spring break your friends are going to wish they had your wardrobe, instead of wishing they left you behind! Check out how to be chic and cheap with these 5 fashion must-haves. Whether you're spending your vacation lounging in the Caribbean, or bar hopping your way down Comm. Ave. you are guaranteed to have heads turning: THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS - It's undeniable that all women should have something in their closet that screams fun and sexy, yet elegant and reserved. This spring, there's no better way to enjoy you're night out than by slipping into a slimming, sassy, little black dress. Add a bold turquoise necklace or some red snakeskin shoes depending upon your mood. Check out these two stunning choices from Old Navy ($24.50) and American Eagle Outfitters ($39.50). Old Navy - $24.50 American Eagle - $39.50 THE FIGURE PERFECT BATHING SUIT - Every girl should have a bathing suit that makes her feel good - period! Whether you're lounging on the beach, or floating in the pool, you should feel comfortable and covered. Great news, regardless of your size and shape, you are bound to get lucky at Old Navy. Not only do they offer a variation of top, bottom, and one-piece designs, they feature one of spring's top trends: mis-matching. Patterned tops and solid bottoms are featured in magazines and on runways across the country, and the best part is, these suits will only set you back $35! Bathing Suit - $35 BOOTIES and WEDGES - As sexy as a peek toe, yet versatile and drink resistant - ankle boots just came back in style and I don't see them going out any time soon. They are perfect for work under a set of wide leg trousers, but, more importantly, just as usable with leggings, a short dress, or straight legs when you're headed out for a night of fun. Check out (and I'm not embarrassed to say this) Payless Shoes, featuring these hot commodities for 15 bucks! And while you're there, pick up a pair of wedges, a trend that is tearing up the runway, yet perfect for the beach. ($19.99). Booties - $15 Wedges - $19.99

THE CLUTCH - After perusing local bars in search of what's "in", most of you ladies have already picked up on this one. The clutch is the perfect size for an evening out. With enough room for your cell phone, credit cards, money, and house keys, but small enough to tolerate carrying around, no spring breaker should leave home without one. The best part is, the pattern possibilities are endless, so you can be fashionable while still being yourself. Bold patent leather is perfect for city life. If you're headed to the beach, check out Old Navy's safari clutches for $19.50. The Clutch - $19.50 FLORAL - After watching the Oscars, we can all safely assess that Hollywood has certainly taken a liking to Fashion Week's biggest trend: floral print. Bold patterns and bright colors pull together nicely in a fantastic feminine look. Whether it is a dress, or a top paired with dark denim, you can take this look just about anywhere. The 15 Dollar Store (www.the15dollarstore.com) has a wide selection of floral motifs so you can pick what best fits your inner fashionista. (And yes, everything on the site is 15 bucks!) Floral print at the 15 Dollar Store

Now get ready to pack your bags, you'll have all you ever needed for Spring Break after one short shopping trip! And remember, fashion isn't what's in style; it's taking what's trendy and making it your own.