Back to School Shopping On a Budget

With just a few weeks left to summer, it’s time to start thinking about one of the highlights of this time of year…shopping for a new back-to-school wardrobe! The problem this fall is with parents really suffering from the frightening cost of gas and food and tighter credit, you might have to focus more on price than in past years. Don’t despair. That chain link necklace and those slouchy slacks can still be yours… and if you shop smart, maybe even those decorative tights and thigh-high boots you’ve been swooning over

Before beginning your treasure hunt for value, do the math. Find out what your family can afford and then make out a basic shopping list. Look it over and order your list according to what you absolutely MUST have right now.

Study your favorite magazines and websites to learn the hottest trends. They’ll help you to replicate the looks of Serena and Blair with a few basic cheap and chic pieces you’ll find at reasonably priced retail stores.

Don’t give into peer pressure. If you shop with a friend whose budget is much more generous than yours, you’ll only get frustrated. Buy only the clothes that you feel comfortable in and will make getting dressed fun.

Investigate other shopping options. The mall is familiar… and has what you need… but there are flea markets, discount stores, even yard sales, where your creativity and keen eye might net you a real find. Your local resale shop might have cool name brand clothes at a deep discount that you might accessorize with this season’s huge earrings to make a unique fashion statement.

Do an inventory of the school supplies you already have. Calculators, folders and binders, backpacks and lunch boxes might live on for another year, giving you more money to spend on that neat floral shirt. You’ll be surprised, getting rid of redundant spending can save some serious cash. Check out the paper for each store’s weekly specials. Purchase each store’s best sale and move on to the next store. Don’t forget your local dollar store for some basic supplies. And the Sunday newspaper for coupons.

It’s not necessary to buy a year’s worth of clothes in one day. The weather (and styles) are bound to change. Advertising tends to make you think you need that winter coat now… but there’s plenty of time to purchase that item. A few new trendy articles of clothing are all you need at the outset of the school year.

Consider a part time job at your favorite clothing store. You’ll get valuable work experience, receive a discount on the stuff you really love… and maybe earn enough for those to-die-for boots.

Find out when the next tax free holiday is and wait to buy shoes and pocketbooks then.

Don’t buy on impulse. Do some research first. And save your receipts until you’ve tried everything on and your mom agrees everything fits properly.