We have already talked about saving money on back to school supplies, but now let us talk about saving money on back to school clothes. Here are my best tips for outfitting your kids without spending a lot of money.
First, go through the closets. This is an essential first step so you know what you have available to you. Kids grow at different rates, and you might be surprised to find that you already have most of what you will need. There is nothing worse than buying five new pairs of pants only to find out that you already have five pairs at home in the same size. Inventory everything and then right now your needs in the sizes and types. Bring your list out when you go shopping.
Don’t buy everything you need right now. Just get a few things if you need something new for your child that first day or first week. Although the sales may be good now, you’ll find that they get even better once school is actually in session. This is especially true for staples such as jeans, t-shirts and uniforms. Plus, you may not know what is really “cool” until your kids actually get back to school. Nylon wind-breaker type pants were cool last year, but maybe they are out this year.
Shop in the least expensive places, such as the yard sales, the outgrown sales and the thrift stores. Sears has some inexpensive clothes for kids, especially when they go on clearance. And, they offer a program that replaces worn clothing in the same size and style if your child is rough on his or her clothes. This means that you can replace those jeans later in the year for free.
Think about layers to create new outfits. With layers, you may actually need to purchase fewer clothing items, as you can create new looks and new warmth as the seasons change. Keep this in mind when you are choosing new things to buy.
Happy shopping.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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