What's Going Down Downtown

When I first arrived at Penn State, I was reluctant in that I thought I would have to spend the next four years becoming an expert in the formidable task that is online shopping. If you're unfamiliar with this fear, trust me when I say that online shopping for clothes, especially when you're a female, is a gamble. I can recall my good friend Haylie's dismay when her dress arrived one week before prom and could barely zip half-way. But before I even had the chance to explore or entertain this fear, I realized that I was completely underestimating what downtown State College has to offer. If you've not yet had the opportunity to explore downtown or you're just in search of a place to purchase your next outfit, you're in luck because in this post I'll give a comprehensive list of my favorite go-to shops downtown.

Metro

 

Location: 320 E College Ave

Price Range: varies from mid-range to expensive depending on the type of item
General Type of Clothing Sold: primarily female going-out clothes in addition to shoes and accessories

If you're on the hunt for something to wear to your next outing with your friends, Metro is your go-to place. Not only do they offer a myriad of rompers and dresses, but they don't fall short in terms of crop tops and body suits as well. While they do accept LionCash, you need to watch yourself because these items tend to be pricey and tend to add up fast. In addition to their stock of trendy going-out clothes, Metro also sells pre-cut Penn State apparel. So if you're running short on time before game day or you simply just do not trust yourself with a pair of scissors, Metro could help you out on that front as well.

People's Nation

 

Location: 126 E College Ave

Price Range: Fairly expensive

General Type of Clothing Sold: everyday boho-chic wear in addition to a collection of dresses, rompers, and accessories

If you're familiar with the clothing brand Free People, you're safe to assume that People's Nation markets upon a similar front, that new-age boho chic. In fact, Free People-brand clothing can actually be purchased at People's Nation. Luckily for Penn Staters, the clothes sold at People's Nation are generally less expensive than that of Free People, of course with the exception of the Free people merchandise itself. I highly recommend stopping by People's Nation if you're a fan of similarly modern clothing stores such as Urban Outfitters and Toyshop. Oh and they accept LionCash.

Blue I.V.

Location: 226 E College Ave

Price Range: affordable mid-range

General Type of Clothing Sold: on-trend dresses and rompers in addition to accessories

If you have a special occasion coming up, I highly recommend checking out Blue I.V. They tout a vast collection of rompers and dresses, as well as skirts and tops, sure to offer the perfect outfit for any occasion. I actually happened to have been wearing a romper from there last night! The most

notable thing about Blue I.V. is the frequency and quality of their sales. I know, at this moment, they're offering 15% off the entire store. This is not unusual, as they tend to offer some of the best sales in State College.

Connections

Location: 130 S Allen St

Price Range: fairly expensive

General Type of Clothing Sold: chic, everyday casual wear in addition to some dresses and jackets

Although connections is almost guaranteed to put a dent into your pocket, they offer some of the cutest clothes around. While primarily what they sell is Free People (I know. It's everywhere.) they also offer a collection of items from brands that are less well-known. Not many people are familiar with Connections, as it is not located on the main stretch of shops and restaurants. However, it is certainly worth going out of the way.