14 Clever Ways to Save Money on Clothes
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Here’s a look at 14 simple, clever ways to save money on clothes.
Clothing is a form of self-expression – a way to showcase your personality. But depending on your clothing style—and how often you like to shop—growing a wardrobe can be pricey. The good news is that self-expression doesn’t have to break the bank.
1. Get thrifty to save money on clothes
Don’t turn your nose up at thrift stores, consignment shops, or secondhand stores. The truth is, you can find some amazing finds at these stores—including brand name apparel and even clothes with the original tags.
2. Use browser extensions to save money
But don’t just rely on coupons that come to your inbox—you know, the ones that offer a percent or dollar amount off your purchase. You can also download apps to your phone or add extensions to your computer to save money. Yowza, Shoptagr, and Honey are great options to help you find local deals on restaurants and clothing stores.
3. Sell anything you don’t wear
Look through your closet for clothes you no longer wear. Have a yard sale or sell these items at consignment shops. Consignment stores can buy your clothing at a discounted rate. You can declutter, plus earn cash to increase your wardrobe.
4. Go “basic” to save money on clothes
It’s nice to wear vibrant colors, maybe a little lime green or hot pink stripes. However, basic styles and colors can save money in the long run. Since these are easier to mix and match, you’re able to create more outfit combos with fewer items.
5. Be your own seamstress
Constantly getting your clothes hemmed can be costly. So learn to hem your own clothes instead. This will save money since you don’t have to pay someone else to do it.
6. Choose quality garments
Quality garments last longer. These fabrics and materials are often more durable, meaning you can get several years out of the garments. Even though the purchase price might be on the higher end, you’ll save money in the long run.
7. If you don’t really like it…don’t buy it
Don’t develop the attitude that it’ll grow on me. If you don’t like something, don’t waste money buying it. Chances are, you won’t wear these clothes for very long.
8. Don’t over wash your clothes
This doesn’t suggest wearing dirty clothes. Just know that over washing fabrics will break down the fibers faster. Get good usage out of your clothes before tossing them in the hamper.
9. Fold, don’t hang
Hanging clothes breaks down the integrity of fabrics, too. It can distort the shape of your clothes, or leave hard-to-remove hanger marks.
10. If you can’t afford it…don’t buy it
Only buy something if you can truly afford it. If your budget allows it, go for it.
11. Swap clothes with family and friends
If you both have clothes you no longer wear, swapping items benefits everyone.
12. Be careful with flash sales
Flash sales are designed to catch your eye by enticing deeply discounted buys. But this can also encourage overspending or giving into impulse buying.
13. Always shop with a list
Just like grocery shopping, make a list when buying clothes. If you need undershirts, only buy undershirts. If you need pants, only purchase pants.
14. Buy fewer “trendy” items to save money on clothes
Trends are nice, but they go out of style fast. What’s trendy now might not be in two years – or next year!
Clothes aren’t always cheap, and sometimes, you have to pay a little more for quality. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank. Saving money on clothes is possible, as long as you know how to find a deal, and how to make your clothes last longer.