 |
| ::via:: |
While it's true that baby bottoms are some of the cutest things you'll ever see, as responsible parents, it's our job to clothe them. If you're like me, you may be finding your little one growing out of everything she owns. This venture from "baby land" into "toddlerdom" is no joke. We were very blessed to receive so many gifts for G at our showers. In fact, unless I just wanted to, I didn't really have to buy her any necessitates until about 12 months, and even then it was just a couple things here and there...but now? She is comfortably wearing size 2t and those are just not clothing sizes that you typically get at baby showers. It's understandable considering new born, itty bitty clothes are virtually irresistible.
We skimped by in October since I had set a personal goal to not buy her any clothes for that month (you can read about it here). However, I quickly realized that most of her 18 month clothes are becoming too short (she's rocking the 80th percentile for height) and with winter weather creeping in, I needed to take some serious inventory of her fall/winter attire. This resulted in about 3 fleece pullovers, 5 pairs of adequate fitting pants, and about 8 shirts (and one snug winter coat). Needless to say, I realized it was time to bite the bullet and purchase some new clothing.
 |
| ::via:: |
Now don't get me wrong, I adore buying new clothes for G and at times it has been a serious problem. Little girls just have so many cute options! However, with the purchase of new land, our soon to be forever home on the horizon, and other financial obligations, I try to remain savvy when it comes to clothes shopping.
If you're still in the blissful stages of having all the clothes your little one could possibly ever need, great! If not, here are a few of my favorite ways to save on clothes for little ones.
Hand-me-downs
Hand-me-downs are seriously my favorite way to acquire clothes for G. They are free and I have been fortunate to have friends that take really good care of their daughters' clothing. It's nice if you have someone that you can cycle through with, but if not, take what you can get.
Gift Lists
Friends and family often ask what they can get G for various occasions and I always suggest clothes. Many people love to purchase cute little outfits for your itty bitty...so make the suggestion! And let's be honest, most of our kids have more than enough toys anyway.
Clearance Racks
This one can be a little tricky. Sometimes it's hard to gauge what size they will be in the following year when you're buying seasonal clothing. I lucked out last year. I bought an adorable patriotic outfit for G at one of my favorite children's clothing stores for $3! It fit her perfectly the following summer. It goes to show that you can find some really great deals if you're willing to sift through the racks.
Thrift Stores and Consignment Sales
You can often find great scores at local thrift stores and consignment sales. I recently picked up several pairs of pants for G for about $2 a piece. Granted these deals may not be as good as some of your yard sale finds, but considering we don't personally see many yard sales come November, I'd say this isn't too bad. I suggest when it comes to large consignment sales that you wait until their discount days to shop. While you may not have as vast of a selection as you would have on previous days, you can score some great clothes for super cheap.
Online
Such public domains such as Craigslist and Facebook house many opportunites for good finds. We've bought several larger items (e.g. treadmill and shelves) and over the last week tapped into the baby/kids section. Just this past weekend I acquired 6 pairs of pants, 4 pairs of leggings, G's Halloween costume for next year, and two nice winter coats for $25. Most of the coats I've been eyeing for G have averaged at least $20-25, so I'd say this was a good deal. (Disclaimer: You may not feel comfortable meeting strangers to obtain your items and that is okay. My hubby has stepped in many times to either come along or he'll pick them up...always at a public meeting place.)
The Shops
There are several stores that I enjoy shopping in if I can catch a good sale.
The Children's Place and Crazy 8: I love their adorable clothes and they have customer rewards, which is always nice.
Khols: I've purchased several clothing items for G in the past from their online site. The deals were great and of course you can earn Khols cash.
Sam's Club: I know you're probably thinking, what?! Yes! We have had a membership for years and I have bought multiple items for G while doing our bulk shopping. They carry great clothes for kids and have them very reasonably priced. In fact, G's Thanksgiving outfit came from there last year.
I hope this helps if you find yourself in a similar situation. There is no sense in going broke just to keep your kid clothed.
*I was not compensated in anyway to suggest these businesses.
| Linking up with Leslyn |
No comments :
Post a Comment