Chic But Cheap Gifts for Your Roomies

By Amanda Ferrara, Student at New York University

Finding that perfect holiday gift for your roommate amid the stress of finals might be tough, especially if you are on a budget!

Check out these five chic but cheap presents that will impress your roommate ... without breaking the bank.

For the girl who likes to stand out, head to a makeup store such as Sephora where you can find Ciate’s Sequined Manicure Kit. For just $19, your roommate can glamorize her look with statement-making sequined nails.

For the fashionista, check out Necessary Clothing’s website for some great finds under $20 such as this belted blouse. Something like this well-fitted, warm taupe button-down is perfect for the style-conscious student -- sophisticated enough for class while the studded belt adds the edge every girl needs.

For the girl who loves the holidays, why not wrap up the gift that keeps on giving? These Paddywax Seasonal Tin Candles from Urban Outfitters come in holiday-themed aromas. The Twilight scent, for example, is a combination of white spice, holly leaves and cranberry.

For the over-analyzer, you might want to try a book that supports their habit of scrutinizing. "The Definitive Book of Body Language" is a fun, easy read that will not only help your roommate dissect her interactions with her crush but will also teach her how to interpret what strangers are thinking, how to impress her professors and how to ace job interviews.

For the girl who studies too much, you can give the gift of daily stress relief. Lush’s Glogg Shower Gel is infused with red wine to provide her skin with anti-oxidants, cinnamon to wake her up in the morning and orange juice to maintain glowing skin despite the winter weather.

[Image from Sephora.com]