Making sure your kids have all the clothes they need is not easy, and it’s definitely not cheap. But whether they’ve outgrown their old outfits, worn out their favourites, or simply need a kid’s wardrobe update, there are ways you can cut costs.
From thrift shops, hand-me-downs, garage sales, selling old clothes, or creating a capsule wardrobe, there are multiple ways to reduce the costs. Here’s our round up of the top money saving tips to help your children hit the streets in style.
Repurpose Clothing
Before you throw out old clothes that no longer fit, it’s worth considering ways to repurpose them. If you don’t think you have the necessary skills required to give a faded wardrobe staple a new lease of life, then think again.
There are lots of hacks online that will guide you through the process of repurposing old clothes, but easy examples include cutting ripped jeans to create shorts, or lowering the hem on a skirt that’s become too short. And don’t be afraid to cut the feet of that baby grow!
Do some research, be creative, and you’ll be surprised what you can achieve.
Hand-Me-Downs
While many people may frown upon the idea of hand-me-downs, if money is tight, it’s simply too good an offer to turn down. Not everything you receive will be right for your child, but there may be a few perfect items that will work for you and your child.
This is especially true of baby clothes, where growth spurts are common and they are forever growing out of their clothes. Hand-me-downs are a perfect solution to this problem, with lots of passed on baby wear often as good as new.
Thrifting
Looking for used items at thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales, or charity shops, is another great way to find the perfect piece for that wardrobe reset. There are bargains to be found here, plus you get to feel good because you’re recycling things that may otherwise be thrown away.
Try and pick out high-quality brands as they will last longer and retain some resale value for when the time comes for another wardrobe update. Thrifting does require you to shop around, but there are bargains out there, and nothing beats the buzz of finding bargain!
If they have one, sign up to the thrift store reward program for potential discounts.
Create a Capsule Wardrobe
If you do have to buy new clothes, then purchasing a collection of versatile, mix-and-match pieces such as a two-piece kids set will help you make the most of your budget. Essentially, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothing essentials that can be easily worn with each other, creating a matching, year-round wardrobe.
Capsule wardrobes save money because you’re buying fewer clothes, plus they reduce the daily stress of having to find a matching outfit for your child to wear.
Don’t Pay Full Price
Just because you’re on a budget does not mean you can’t buy new clothes. By adjusting your shopping habits and doing a little work, it’s possible to update that wardrobe at a discounted rate. Here’s how:
Buy Out of Season
Shopping off season is a great way to get new clothing for a fraction of the original store price. In spring, look to buy winter clothing for next year, and in the fall, seek out summer purchases. Buying winter coats in spring can be a big money saver, but be sure to buy at least a size up.
Sign Up for Store Emails
Signing up for store emails will get you notified of upcoming promotions or sales. Select a few of your favourite clothing stores and ask to be kept informed.
Use Reward Programmes/Card
Many stores offer reward or loyalty points on purchases, so be sure to sign up to their reward programmes and maximise your spending power.
Sell Unwanted Clothes
There are multiple sites online that allow anyone to resell unwanted used clothing. Items that are still good quality can retain excellent resale value and help boost your clothing budget. So, not only are you saving money, but you’re doing your bit for the planet by recycling.
