As we find ourselves midway through summer, it’s time to start planning for the return to school. Even though you may still be enjoying the summer break, it’s beneficial to begin your back-to-school preparations, particularly clothing, in advance. Shopping for school clothes can be pricey, so let’s explore some effective ways to save money while doing so.
THRIFT AND CONSIGNMENT STORES
In our community, thrift and consignment stores have developed quite a following. Alongside vintage gems such as Goodwill Community Foundation (GCF), there’s also an emergence of trendier alternatives. Stores such as Kid to Kid and Once Upon a Child cater to younger ones, whereas Plato’s Closet offers a wider variety for older teens as well as adults.
These stores are strict about the quality and, at times, the brand of clothing they accept. Therefore, you’re assured that the clothing available is of decent quality. Notably, items are categorized by size and color, saving you browsing time. Consignment stores offer the added advantage of reduced prices, which benefits those whose children constantly outgrow their clothing.
EXTRA DISCOUNTS
Occasionally, these consignment stores distribute electronic coupons during specific seasons. They often seem to anticipate the back-to-school shopping rush, hence, it’s common to find these coupons in the inbox during this period. Customer loyalty schemes in these stores provide additional discounts after making a certain amount of purchases, which can be strategic for back-to-school shopping.
SALES AT RETAIL STORES
Retail store sales during this season may offer substantial discounts. However, it’s crucial to read the terms of the sale to avoid unnecessary hassle. Some sales apply a blanket discount across all items, while others restrict discounts to specific categories. Checking the fine print of store ads can save you the disappointment of discovering your chosen items aren’t part of the sale.
COUPONS
Despite the digital era, physical coupons are still a shopping staple. Kohl’s and Old Navy are two such outlets known for sending coupons during the back-to-school season. Even though their amount might seem small, combining these coupons with in-store sales can significantly boost your savings.
CONSIGNMENT SALES
Children’s consignment sales, although infrequent, can result in massive savings. For example, I once managed to buy two seasons’ worth of outfits for my five kids at an incredibly reduced price. Always keep in mind the no-return policy at these events, so make sure your children try on the clothes first.
SUMMARIZING BACK-TO-SCHOOL SHOPPING
All in all, there’s a wide array of methods to effectively save money on back-to-school clothing shopping. Start off with consignment stores, browse through retail store sales, apply coupons, and don’t forget to check out consignment sales if available. These tips should ease the financial burden associated with back-to-school shopping. What strategies have you found useful in stretching your budget for back-to-school shopping?
