A comprehensive clothing guide for those new to Leicester

Being new to a city and navigating your way through it to find some new clothes can be a daunting task, especially if you have a budget in mind. But don't worry! Here is a comprehensive clothing guide tailored to the seasonal needs of International students living in Leicester. 

Whether you're into high-end fashion, seeking a balance between quality and affordability or on a budget, Leicester has something for everyone!

Seasonal Essentials

☃︎ For the unpredictable British weather ☃︎

• For the UK's unpredictable weather, the key is layering with items that can be added or removed easily, including: a waterproof, windproof outer jacket (like a parka or trench coat), various long-sleeved shirts and sweaters, and thermal layers for colder days, all topped off with essential accessories like a wool scarf, gloves, and a hat. Don't forget waterproof footwear like boots, as rain is common, and pack clothing in quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials for comfort. In the Winter it does get very cold, so be prepared!
• On the flip side, it can also get quite warm in the UK! From March onward the weather can improve and we've been known to have the occasional heatwave. For warmer weather, choose clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton in loose-fitting, lightweight styles to allow air circulation and wick away moisture. Make sure a hat is also part of your summer wardrobe, especially in a UK heatwave!

Online Shopping

For convenience, you can explore a variety of online shopping for all budgets, without leaving your accommodation

• General Online Retailers: ASOS, Amazon Fashion, Debenhams, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer
• Specialised Online Fashion: Pretty Little Thing, Boohoo, Shein, Nobody's Child, Topshop, Pull & Bear

Student Discounts: Check for students discounts on UNIDAYS or Student Beans when shopping online: Free Student Discounts | Exclusive discount codes and Deals | UNiDAYS

Tips for Shopping on a Budget

1. Always check for sales and clearance sections in stores and online.
2. Take advantage of students discounts offered by various retailers in Leicester: Student Offers
3. Explore second hand shops and thrift stores for unique and budget friendly finds. There are plenty of these in Leicester: Leicester’s top 5 Vintage Stores - Visit Leicester
4. Plan your shopping around seasonal sales events to grab items at lower prices. January sales (straight after Christmas) sees a lot of discounted items in stores.
5. Attend local markets for unique pieces at affordable prices: Leicester Market | Food Hall & Outdoor Market
6. And of course, Leicester has a Primark, which is the go to for affordable clothing: Primark Leicester: Click & Collect Women's & Kids' Clothing!

High End Shopping in Leicester 

Leicester has a range of shops to suit all needs. If you're a bit of a fashionista and you are looking for something more high end, there are a variety of options for you. 

The main shopping centre (or mall) in Leicester city centre is HighCross: Shop

Shops include, John Lewis, Mango, Zara, Apple, Hugo Boss, All Saints, Reiss, Next, Superdry and much much more. There are also a variety of restaurants and cafes to enjoy. 

There is also Fosse Park Retail Park which would be a short car journey away from main campus.

There are frequent bus routes available to students to Fosse Park via Arriva which are very affordable: Arriva UK Bus | Buy Bus Tickets & Check Live Bus Timetables
Fosse Park has variety of shops and eateries on offer. They also have high end fashion options from designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Burberry, Gucci, Jimmy Choo and many, many more: Leicester Fosse Park | Flannels

There's lots to explore! 

Packed with pretty little market towns, high class shopping hubs and the region’s top retail park, absolutely filled with the biggest names. Leicestershire has everything you could want for clothes shopping.  

Whether it’s a budget shop in Primark, seeking out high end products or exploring the huge Marks & Spencer at Fosse Park, there’s so much to explore: Shopping in Leicestershire - Visit Leicester

Happy Shopping!