The kids may want to wear the latest fashions when they stroll the hallways at school, but you've got a budget to consider. Can you really outfit them (in clothes they'll actually want to wear) without breaking the bank? Check out these shopping suggestions to find out how to save on fashions for the kids.
Discount Retailers
Retail giants such as JCPenny, Kohl's, Target, Wal-Mart, T.J.Maxx are great for finding school basics (especially if you want to get all your shopping done in one place), but there are some smaller shops you may want to put on your list, as well:Charlotte Russe: For the female teen, this high school favorite offers stylish versions of all the basics (from jeans to jewelry) at allowance-friendly prices.
Tip: For the beginning of the school year, summer clothes can be worn to school with a few extra pieces like sweaters, tights or new shoes. Shop the end-of-summer sales and wait a while before hitting the fall fashion racks.
Online Shopping
The websites of all the big-box stores tend to have a wider style selection than you can find in any one store, so you can save on gas at the same time you save on the kids' clothes. Some of our favorite online shops for kids include:Zappos: Search by brand, kid's age, or price for shoes, clothing and accessories.
eBay: You can get great deals on new and gently worn styles for kids of all ages by spending a little time hunting around on eBay.
Wet Seal: Teens (and plenty of grownups we know) love the bargain fashions at this trendy retailer.
Tip: Shopping online can be a little tricky when it comes to finding the right fit. Check out these online shopping tips from your About Guide to Kids' Fashion before you fill your virtual shopping cart.
Outlet Malls
You may find last year's looks and some slightly damaged pieces, but outlet malls offer serious retail discounts for those willing to sift through the merchandise.Tip: Do your homework before you hit the outlets. Consumer Reports shares its top tips for making the most out of your next outlet excursion.
Consignment/Vintage Shopping
Vintage clothing and jewelry is a hot trend right now, so save some money by steering your teens towards a vintage store in your area. You can give your children ownership over their spending by letting them sell their old clothes at consignment shops and use the proceeds for new clothing purchases. Shopping at vintage and consignment shops takes patience (and some kids may be resistant), but the payoff to your wallet makes it an option well worth considering.Tip: The terms vintage, consignment and thrift are often confused - learn the difference before you shop with help from this primer by your About Guide to Vintage Clothing.
D.I.Y.
A good tailor can make just about any off-the-rack item look better, but a custom fit generally comes with a hefty price tag. If the kids have clothes that just need a little alteration or damage control, learn how to make simple repairs and alterations (and save money) with help from your About Guide to DIY Fashion.There are lots of great resources that can walk kids through making their own clothes, as well. Books such as Generation T: 108 Ways to Transform a T-Shirt are full of easy, DIY projects that will keep the kids cheaply clothed (and busy!). Check out these DIY Fashion resources to get started.