Being a teenager today is by no means cheap. Some teens have jobs, but even then, many make minimum wage. This problem leaves very little cash flowing toward the purchases that form their own personal style. Have no fear; there is an alternative.

Though a seasonal approach, garage sales often generate opportunities for unique fashion finds. Most teens dread the thought of waking up at an early hour, but for garage sales, it is necessary. The earlier the wake-up, the better chance you will take home a treasure. It is often necessary to dig and go to several different sales. The advantage to garage sales is that just the change in your pockets can go a long way. Garage sales are best for items such as vintage T-shirts, older jewelry, records, perfectly worn-in shoes and anything from trucker hats to stocking caps.

You also might try Goodwill. In contrast to garage sales, Goodwill is open during all seasons and carries a variety of sizes and styles. The prices are reasonable. The jewelry is around $1; clothing is usually around $2-5. The Goodwill also is great for cassette tapes, VHS tapes, earrings, shoes, belts, skirts, purses and a vast range of clothing sizes.

Downtown Lawrence also offers two used clothing stores: Arizona Trading Co. and Sugartown buy, sell and trade used clothing. The clothing costs more than the other alternatives but still cost less than most retail stores. Since they do choose their items rather than accepting donations, the quality of their merchandise is exceptional. There is a wide price range at these stores, but usually it’s easy to find a bargain or two for under $15. ATC and Sugartown are best when shopping for nice tops, quality pants, dressy skirts, lightly used shoes, coats, scarves and some accessories.

So in a money bind, there’s no need to sacrifice quality in shopping. Keep in mind there are alternatives that offer just about everything a person could want. These places and many others around town offer a totally different shopping experience and atmosphere for those on a budget.

— Holly Heffley and Claire Wilkinson are both juniors at Free State High School.

Great for exercise (a little short for school)

Cool T-shirts are a bargain at stores such as Goodwill, where vintage jewelry and perfectly worn-in shoes can be found for bargain prices.

Tiffany Sloan, 16, front, models a bowling shirt and thrift-store skirt, and Kendra Craig, 17, models a thrift T-shirt and skirt. The Free State High School students enjoy finding unique clothes at thrift stores and garage sales.

Floral skirts are cool for spring

Pay less for vintage-style athletic gear