In the blink of an eye, vacation will be over, and school will be back in session. At first, when the weather still feels like summer, your kids can keep wearing what they’ve had on repeat since spring. But soon enough, the air will turn crisp, and you’re digging through drawers and closets for fall clothes that haven’t seen daylight in months, only to discover your kids have outgrown just about everything, even ones with tags still attached!
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with budget-friendly, mom-tested tips to get your kids outfitted for the season without overspending.
1. Start with a List
Before buying anything, take inventory. Do the kids have enough pants and long-sleeved shirts? Does last year’s jacket still fit? What about socks and underwear?
Only buy what they need. It’s easy to be tempted by sales, but if it’s not on your list, you’re not saving. As my dad always says, “The money you save is the money you don’t spend,”—and he’s right. Keep in mind that your child will likely outgrow their clothes again in six months.
2. Talk to Your Kids About What They Like
Kids are more likely to wear clothes they help choose, and having a say boosts their confidence. Show them your list and get their feedback.
If spending the day at the mall isn’t their thing, create an online cart together. Ask about their preferred fabrics and styles. For example, my daughter loves skorts because they let her do cartwheels, and she avoids stiff denim. My son won’t touch long sleeves but will wear joggers every day—and right now, he’s into a monochromatic head-to-toe look. Knowing these preferences saves money and headaches.
3. Set a Budget
Decide on a budget you’re comfortable with and try to stick to it. Prioritize essentials first, then fill in the rest as sales pop up.
4. Shop Smart: Watch for Sales and Deals
Do a little price research. Check your favorite store websites and look for promo codes or coupons. You can even use browser extensions to find discounts or earn cash back. Some stores let you create wish lists or carts and will alert you when items go on sale—use that feature! In-store, ask associates when the next sale is.
PRO TIP: Markdowns often happen on Thursday evenings for the weekend.
5. Shop Off-Season
I know it sounds hot and uncomfortable to buy a winter coat in July, but if you find it for 70% off, it’s a great deal. Totally worth the sweat. Shop ahead when you can.
6. Check Out Discount and Outlet Stores
Off-price retailers are a great resource for growing kids. These stores often carry brand-name clothes from previous seasons at a fraction of the price.
7. Organize a Clothing Swap
Reach out to other families with kids around the same age. Swapping gently used clothing is a great way to refresh your child’s wardrobe for free.
Also, try community Facebook groups like Buy Nothing, which are perfect for finding (and giving away) clothing locally.
8. Buy Used or Vintage
Apps like Poshmark, eBay, Depop, Facebook Marketplace, and Nextdoor are treasure troves for barely-worn kids’ clothes—especially special occasion items like dress shoes or winter boots that are outgrown long before they wear out.
9. Sell What No Longer Fits
Turn barely worn or clothes with tags on them into cash. Facebook Marketplace or local groups have no seller fees. Sites like Poshmark, Depop, and eBay offer a wider reach. Some consignment or resale shops will even offer store credit or cash on the spot.
10. Ask About Special Discounts
Many stores offer discounts for:
- Teachers/Students/Coaches/Volunteers
- First Responders/Health Care Workers (Police, Fire, Medical, Doctors, Nurses, etc.)
- Military (Active, Reserve, National Guard, Veterans, etc.)
- Seniors (hello, Grandparents!)
- Employees
- Low Income/Medicaid
- Members of Organizations (Unions, AAA, etc.)
Always ask at checkout—you might be pleasantly surprised! Even better if you can stack (use more than one) discount!
11. Join Loyalty Programs
Many stores offer points or discounts without requiring a credit card. If you regularly shop at a particular store, joining their loyalty program can lead to additional savings throughout the year.
12. Support Local & Small Businesses
Small shops often run promotions and reward loyal customers with exclusive discounts. If you have a favorite local boutique, it’s never a bad idea to ask about upcoming sales or loyalty perks.
13. Size Up Wisely
When in doubt, go a size up—especially for fast-growing kids. Look for pieces with features like extendable sleeves, adjustable waists, or cuffable legs. A slightly too-big jacket now might still work next fall.
14. Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Focus on versatile basics that can be easily mixed and matched. If every piece can be styled in at least three ways, you’ll stretch your dollars and make mornings easier, too.
15. Start Early
Avoid last-minute shopping stress. The more time you give yourself, the more chances you’ll have to snag deals, compare prices, and shop thoughtfully. Trust me: I’ve made the mistake of buying overpriced sneakers the day before school starts—you don’t want to go there.
And finally, always check the return policy. As we know, kids change their minds (or hit a growth spurt) overnight!
