As a college student it can be challenging to find high-quality pieces that are within my price range. My wardrobe usually goes a few months at a time without updates. When partnering with brands I'm always hoping that their offerings are within the average college student's budget. With Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, and any other winter holidays you might be celebrating just a couple weeks away, the stress of gift-giving means extra strain on everyone's wallets.

A classic Christmas gift for siblings, parents, and friends is a sweater. If you think about the stereotypical Christmas sweaters grandmas knit, a sweater might not seem like that great a gift. But if you actually think about all the things you can wear a great basic sweater with, it starts sounding like a much better idea. So let's say you decide to get sweaters for your mom and aunt. You go online and are confronted with cashmere sweaters priced $200-$500. How on earth is a full-time student with a part-time job supposed to be able to afford that, and all of the other gifts she plans to get?

Let me first say that the Holidays aren't all about how much money you spend on presents. It's a season of giving, but giving can come in a lot of forms. You can give your time, your love, your friendship, and your words. If you do plan on buying presents, make sure to keep in mind that quality is more important than quantity. I usually give out a mix of homemade and store-bought gifts! You don't have to spend all your savings to show the people you love that you care.

The good news is that you can still get your mom that beautiful cashmere sweater, without breaking the bank. Grana is an online shopping destination with the primary goal of producing high-quality basics at low prices. At Grana, the best textiles are sought out worldwide, and designs are produced in-house to keep costs down. I partnered with the brand to showcase three of their pieces — the cashmere crewneck sweater, silk ankle pants, and silk loose shorts — each under $100! 

As a self-proclaimed simpleton I'm always looking for the perfect wardrobe basics that are comfy, without looking frumpy. These three pieces are the perfect new additions to my wardrobe. Both of the silk bottoms can be dressed up or down, and the cashmere sweater is perfect for layering during winter.

To get free shipping and 10% off your order at Grana through January 2017, use my code "CAITLINxGRANA" at checkout. 

Pants Look: Silk Ankle Pants - Grana | Cashmere Crewneck - Grana | Leather Jacket - Ganni | Backpack - Free People (here, in black)
Shorts Look: Silk Loose Shorts - Grana | Ribbed Mockneck Top - Urban Outfitters (similar long sleeve version here) | Shoes - Puma