How to Save Money on Christmas Outfits for the Kids

The Christmas season can be joyous and jolly, full of festivity and family togetherness. But helping your children look nice throughout the season can also put a jolly good dent in your pocketbook if you̵7;re not careful. With a little bit of foresight and planning, looking merry and bright doesn̵7;t have to break the bank. Your children can be comfortable and stylish at family gatherings, special events and church services for no or very little cost -- something even Scrooge would approve of.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask friends or family members for hand-me-downs that are still in good shape. Most children get so little wear out of special-event clothes that it̵7;s not hard to find ones still looking shiny and new.

    • 2

      Host a holiday clothing swap with friends or neighbors who have similarly-aged children. Each family brings a set number of outfits, accessories and dress shoes to swap, and everyone walks away with like-new clothes and outfits.

    • 3

      Mix up and layer your child̵7;s basics for a new look. For instance, pair your daughter̵7;s short-sleeved red dress from the summer with her fun patterned tights. Add a warm cardigan sweater and a special hair bow to create a new seasonal style.

    • 4

      Shop local consignment shops or garage sales. Many shops have discounts this time of year on holiday outfits. You may even be able to buy just one item that you can mix and match with pieces your child already has at home. When shopping a garage sale, be ready to bargain with the seller on price, as this is expected and often successful.

    • 5

      Check online auction sites for that fancy dress or coat and tie you especially want for your child̵7;s Christmas wardrobe. Be sure to read the item description carefully and to check a seller̵7;s reputation before bidding or buying, to minimize the possibility of being disappointed with your purchase. Also, make sure you are purchasing from a non-smoking, non-pet home if you want to be sure the clothing you buy is odor free.

    • 6

      Sign up online for newsletters that offer special discounts to email subscribers. Many companies offer free shipping and discounts of 20 percent or more for your first purchase. You may also be able to find discounts for purchases at local stores in this manner. If you have a smartphone, many companies will honor coupons you have downloaded to your phone. Be sure to ask the retailer in advance if they accept this type of coupon or not. You can also sign up for invitation-only online shopping sites, many of which offer designer clothing -- some are samples -- at discounts of up to 90 percent.

    • 7

      Ask a clerk at the clothing store you would like to shop at when markdowns are made in-store. For instance, many stores mark down items on Thursday to entice weekend shoppers. Be ready to take advantage of markdowns as soon as they are made.

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