CREDIT: POLINEF / THINKSTOCK
Take a cue from Macklemore and try thrifting, especially when you've only got $20 in your pocket.

As the semester winds down – less than 10 days – it’s the time of year to start stocking up wardrobe essentials for summer jobs, or for some students, the start of new, fulltime employment.

Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when bank balances are running on less than zero. Despite being epically broke, it is possible to find fashion bargains throughout London at one of the many thrift stores in the city. If you’re willing to search, you’ll be rewarded with affordable fashion.

Here are some of the best thrift stores in London:

Mine 101

Located at 900 Oxford St. E., Mine 101 is a second hand store run by the Women’s Community House. The employees of Mine 101 hand select all of the merchandise that is sold in the store; you will find gently used, designer and brand name clothing, accessories and shoes. Like Mine 101’s slogan says, you’ll look good and feel good too, because the proceeds from clothing sold at Mine 101 goes towards supporting programs for Women’s Community House and the people who depend on it.

Talize

Located at 1345 Huron St., Talize is just a short distance from Fanshawe College. With over 6,000 items arriving each day, and 10 per cent student discount every day, Talize is a thrift store that caters to the students. Much like Mine 101, you’ll feel good about looking good, because every purchase helps support Children’s Wish Foundation.

Style 360

Located at 360 Springbank Dr., Style 360 is a consignment store with 400 to 700 new, high quality pieces every week. Style 360 carries many brand name and designer clothing items, as well as name brand footwear. Some of the designers the store commonly carry include Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Bebe, Chanel, Burberry and many more. As Style 360 is constantly updating its stock, you’ll never be bored with the selection.

Mesh Boutique

Located at 204 John St., Mesh Boutique is a consignment store with a vintage focus. The owners of Mesh Boutique only take gently used clothing and they’re conscious of the brands they sell. Mesh Boutique is the perfect place to visit if you have vintage style or if you’re looking for a unique addition to your wardrobe.

Value Village

With two locations in London, Value Village combines affordable fashion with convenience. For the most frugal of fashionistas, Value Village has a Super Savers Club Card – sign up and you’ll save even more. Value Village also offers up to 30 per cent off merchandise for donors. If you’re moving out of student housing and need to unload some of your things, bring them to Value Village.

Goodwill Industries

With three locations in London, Goodwill is the place where you can find designer clothes, vintage finds, and amazing bargains. If you’re heading to the Horton Street location, be sure to visit Edgar and Joes for brunch – the French toast is divine.

If thrift shopping isn’t for you, fear not. There are many department style stores around London that offer fashion for less. Head to Winners or Marshall’s to find designer clothing and accessories at bargain prices. The racks may be incredibly messy at times, but if you’re willing to dig, you’ll find a great deal.