Our Mommyhood

Back-to-school shopping and buying clothes as the season changes can really put a strain on your budget. Kids grow a mile a minute so how do you keep up with their wardrobe without breaking the bank? Most parents have had to get resourceful in these tough economic times, so how do you keep your kids looking great in spite of it all? Here are some creative ideas that will help you save money, while keeping them in style.

Neighborhood Clothing Swap

Clothing swaps are popping up everywhere these days and parents are getting in on the craze. We were, of course, the originators of the hand-me-down phenomenon within our own family, so why not share with others? Chances are your kid’s closet has some items that have been worn only a couple of times, if at all. The first step is to clean out the closet as well as any storage areas to see what you have to offer. Next, freshly launder and fold or iron the pieces and organize them into sizes and types—from pajamas to outerwear.

Now you’re ready to organize a clothing swap party for all the other moms in the neighborhood or your playgroup.  You may want to enlist some of the moms to pick up and bring the clothes and accessories to your house the day (or week) before, so the area will be set up beforehand. Make sure to set guidelines on what is acceptable such as the clothing be in good condition with no stains or tears. At the end of the swap you can donate any clothing that is left over. What a great way to save money, help those in need and have some fun in the process!

Thrift and New

Thrift or consignment stores are a really great way to find your kids inexpensive and unique pieces. The trick here is mixing old and new to provide an updated look. You can get creative by combining items from another decade with more current looks. Shop the local thrift stores or chain thrift stores like Aardvark, and then head to Target or JC Penney’s to get some inexpensive modern items. You can also find great sales and deals at those same stores online, so be sure to check both before you make your purchase. Another trick is to buy clothing off-season as you will always pay less when something is not as in demand.

Search for New Websites

There are so many cool websites available now, which will not only greatly increase your options but you will save money in the process!

Thredup.com: This is an amazing new site that is a sort of co-op for busy moms who want to swap used clothing. You basically sign up to be part of the community and they send you a shipping box. Then you fill the box with gently used or outgrown clothing, labeled by size, gender and season. Then you post it online for other mom’s to look at. Once it’s chosen you ship the box at a reduced rate to the mom directly. You can earn up to $10.00 per box. Another option is to send in your clothes to the company directly and have them do it for you. This will earn you about $5.00 for the same amount of clothing. It’s a great economical option as each box has at least 10 items. That’s only $2 a piece!

Zulily.com: This members only website can get you amazing deals at a low cost. It is a great way to find brand name prices at up to 80% less! The way it works is that Zulily holds 72-hour events that start at 6am, during which time you can purchase limited items at deep discount. They also have a rewards program where you get $15 every time you sign someone up. What an awesome way to save money and make money at the same time!

You definitely have enough to worry about without having to stress over your kids clothing. By using some of these techniques you can keep your kids happy and well dressed. Remember to never buy anything at full sticker price and stay apprised of all the sales. If you buy off-season and stick to thrift stores and discount clothiers it will save you a bundle.

Tina Sanchez is the mother of four, and she also writes for the Aviva Directory, a new age website directory with site lists for everything from shopping to marketing guidance. You can search by state, such as North Carolina or by categories, like online revenue.

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