Guest Post: Practical Ways to Save on Spring Clothes

With spring right around the corner, you and your kids may be eager to purchase a new wardrobe. After being couped up in the house and bundled for four months, now is the time to wear lightweight and colorful clothes. But like most families on the block, shopping and purchasing new clothes may not be an option. Family finances typically dictate when and if you can update your attire.

But even if family finances don’t allow much wiggle room, there are practical ways to pick up a few spring pieces and welcome warmer weather:

1. Look for online sales. Online retailers typically receive shipments of spring clothes around the end of January and the beginning of February. These clothes aren’t immediately discounted, but if you wait about four or five weeks – around Easter – your favorite online retailer may discount their spring collection or send online coupons to save on your purchase. How can you benefit from these coupons? If your favorite stores have an email club, sign up and you’ll receive promotions and deals via your inbox. Keep a close eye for these deals and you can save big on spring clothes.

2. Shop used. Gently used secondhand clothes can look as if they’re brand new. If you want new clothes, but really need to save money, try your hand at local thrift stores or consignment shops. You might be surprised by the selection of quality clothes and reasonable prices. This is an excellent way to shop for the entire family without breaking the bank. Inquire as to when your local store updates their inventory and then shop on these days. This way, you’ll get first pick on new donations.

3. Check for store coupons. Don’t just check your inbox for coupons and promotions. Pay close attention to your newspaper and mail. Several local retailers advertise in weekly papers or have direct mail promotions.  Maybe you need Nordstrom coupons or coupons for another local retailer. Keep your eye open for deals and get what you need for less.

4. Swap coupons with a friend. Maybe you have a bunch of coupons for stores that you don’t visit. Rather than throw these coupons in the garbage, get with a friend and share or swap coupons. She may have a coupon that you need, and vice versa. Coupons are free money, and if you can’t benefit from the savings, someone else can.

5. Stockpile your coupons. Coupons typically have long expiration dates, and depending on the retailer, some coupons are accepted past this date. Maintain a binder with your supply of coupons. Coupons aren’t only beneficial for buying clothes, but also for groceries and entertainment. Clip all coupons you find and save them for a rainy day. With extra savings, your family can enjoy additional outings, such as restaurants, movies, amusement parks and other entertainment.

Finances greatly affect your options in life. But rather than sit back and wish for disposable income, take steps to create extra money. Learn how to coupon and enjoy life on the cheap.

Mom and More Disclosure: This is a guest post brought to you from Becky W. Please see my Disclosure Policy.