15 Easy Money-Saving Tips For Clothes Shopping On A Budget (Plus How Much Should You Budget For Clothes)

If you’ve figured out that fashion isn’t exactly your priority, clothes shopping can be a little bit of a shock.

You see those ads for new trends and you start picturing yourself in them, but then you remember that it costs money to buy new stuff and that is an expense that most people just don’t have.

So should you stop buying new clothes? No!

There are ways to shop on a budget without compromising on style.

In this post, we outline 15 easy money-saving tips for shopping on a budget so you can still get what you need without having to sacrifice your monthly income, style, or self-esteem over it.

How Much Should You Budget For Clothes

Clothes are an important part of any wardrobe, and it's important to remember that not all clothes are equal.

You don't need to spend a fortune on clothes to look great - in fact, you can get away with spending less than you might think.

Although it's tough to give a certain amount per month as their numerous factors to consider and each person is different.

However, here are a few tips to help you figure out how much you should be spending on clothes each month based on your circumstances:

• Think about your style. Do you prefer skirts or pants? Do you like to dress up or down? Knowing your style can help you decide how much you need to spend on clothes each month.

• Consider your budget. Are you able to afford to buy a new piece of clothing every month? If not, try to limit yourself to buying one or two new pieces each month. This way, you'll be able to invest in more versatile clothes that will last longer.

• Think about what's in season. Are certain styles in style right now? If so, consider buying those clothes instead of more expensive options that won't be in style for long.

• Stick to a budget. Don't let your clothes cost you an arm and a leg - be sure to stick to your budget no matter what. This

Keeping the above in mind will assist in reevaluating your spending habits and hopefully reduce your monthly clothing spend.

15 Money Saving Tips For When You Are On A Budget For Clothes

Here are some fantastic tips for clothes shopping on a budget or even if you are just looking to curb your spending on clothing.

1. Make A List Of What You Need

When shopping, make a list of everything you need and how much you are willing to spend on it.

You are more likely to make impulse purchases without a list if you shop regularly.

Adding the amount you are willing to spend gives you a reality check before you purchase.

It forces you to assess whether or not the purchase makes sense.

You might be surprised at the number of items on your shopping list that you do not need.

Be sure to shop for things you use.

For example, if you are trying to save money, consider buying second-hand clothes or trying consignment stores.

Second-hand stores usually have a wide variety of items at a fraction of the price of new items.

You can also look for cheap clothes that are in usually good condition in thrift stores, garage sales, and online.

2. Save And Splurge

The tactic is particularly effective when shopping with brand-conscious teenagers.

You can purchase a few name-brand items that will be seen by their peers and then purchase store-brand items to finish their bodies.

For example, a Hollister t-shirt and a Target pair of jeans.

Then, purchase a name-brand backpack to complete the look.

This provides an opportunity for comparison shopping, as well as a way for them to pull together a completed look that looks more like the popular crowd.

3. Hit The Resale Shops And Consignment Stores

There are some truly wonderful resale shops around the country.

The people who brought Once Upon a Child to the mainstream also opened a store dedicated to teens called Plato’s Closet.

These stores sell brand-name items only and they must be in good shape.

You can take your brand-conscious teenager there and help them fit in with their peers while also saving money and meeting family budget needs.

4. Look For Coupons, Cards, And Discounts Before You Buy

Many stores now offer loyalty programs.

Each month they’ll mail or email their current promotion.

If you know you’re going to be shopping at those stores, save the coupon or promotion code and shop during the specified days.

One way to save money on your next shopping trip is to check out the Honey app!

It has everything you love about shopping in one app!

Find the best deal, apply vouchers, and earn rewards.

Shop your favorite places including Amazon, Currys, JD Sports, Domino’s, CDKeys, PrettyLittleThing, Lookfantastic, and Uniqlo.

The Honey app makes life easier to shop from hundreds of stores in one place.

Find products you love, try vouchers, and check out with ease.

Download The Honey App and Start Saving!

5. Do Online Research To Check Sale Prices

Additionally, before you hit the mall, do a quick online search for any ongoing promotions or coupons.

There are many websites devoted to aggregating promotion codes and other membership sites with local money-saving opportunities or group shopping opportunities.

These can be a great way to save money.

The Honey app as mentioned above will be a great source for your online research.

6. Don’t Forget The Discount Stores And Outlet Malls

You can save a bundle by shopping at outlet stores and discount stores like TJ Maxx.

Yes, it can take a bit of time to wade through all the racks of clothing; however, when you save a few hundred dollars it’s probably worth the effort.

7. Shop Post-Holiday Or Season

You can save money, for example on back-to-school clothing, if you shop in October.

You can save money on summer clothes when you shop for them in June.

The store seasons generally start about a month or two before people need to wear the clothing.

Ever wonder why they’re selling summer clothes in February?

Save your shopping for after the season or holiday rush.

Buy your winter clothes or winter coat at the end or after the winter season.

You’ll save a bundle!

Check Today's Prices For Best-Selling Women Clothing of 2022

Check Today's Prices For Best-Selling Mens Clothing of 2022

8. Know Your Fit Before You Shop

When you're shopping for clothes, it's important to know your fit.

This means knowing what size you are and what style of clothing will fit you best.

To determine your size, measure the circumference of your bust, waist, and hips.

You do not want to make the mistake of purchasing an item of clothing that does not fit and subsequently cannot return it.

This is something that is easily avoided by simply measuring yourself before purchasing anything.

9. Borrow Clothes for Special Occasions

Borrowing clothes for special occasions can be a great way to save money on your wardrobe.

Not only can you avoid spending money on clothes you'll never wear, but you can also get clothes that are in season but not too expensive.

For example, if you're planning to wear a particular dress to a wedding, you can borrow it from a friend or relative.

You can also borrow clothes from a clothing store or a nearby consignment store.

Just be sure to return the clothes immediately after the event - otherwise, you'll be responsible for storage and handling costs.

By borrowing clothes for special occasions, you'll not only save money on your wardrobe, but you'll also have fun dressing up for events that matter to you.

10. Join A Swap Clothing Group

Swapping clothes with other people can be a great way to save money on clothing.

Not only do you get to try out different clothes, but you can also get items that you wouldn't be able to afford on your own.

There are several online swap sites where you can find friends and fellow shoppers.

Once you've found a site that suits your needs, create an account and start adding your desired items.

You can either swap individual items or entire collections.

Swapping can be a great way to get clothes that you wouldn't be able to afford on your own.

Not only do you get to try out different clothes, but you can also get items that you wouldn't be able to afford on your own.

So if you're looking for ways to save money on clothes, swapping is a great option.

11. Buy Basic Outfits

By buying basic outfits, you can save money and get exactly the clothes you need without spending a fortune.

Start by analyzing your wardrobe and determining which items you need more of.

This might include items like jeans, a shirt, or a blazer.

Shop for these items in bulk - this will save you money on the price per item, and you'll also be able to save on shipping costs.

Think about your lifestyle - if you're the type of person who often changes your clothes, then buy more versatile items like shirts and jeans.

These will last longer and you'll save money in the long run.

12. Buy Good Quality Clothing

When it comes to clothing, it's important to buy good quality clothes that will last longer.

Although you will spend slightly more now it will save you money in the long run, and you'll also be able to wear them for longer periods without them deteriorating or becoming too tight.

Quality clothes also tend to be more comfortable, which is a bonus.

Buy quality clothes that will last - don't compromise on the quality of your clothes just because you think they'll cost more.

In the long run, it'll cost you more to buy cheap clothing that falls apart soon after you purchase it.

13. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your clothing items

When it comes to budgeting for clothes, it can be tough to stick to a single style or item.

That's why it's important to mix and match your clothing items to save money.

For instance, you could wear a cardigan over a blouse for warmer weather, or wear a skirt with a blazer for a more formal appearance.

This way, you'll have a variety of options when it comes to dressing for different occasions.

Additionally, you can mix and match different colors and styles to create a unique look.

This way, you'll never have to spend extra money on clothing that you'll never wear again.

And, of course, if something in your wardrobe starts to go out of style, you can always replace it with something new and cheaper.

14. Fix Up and Repurpose Your Clothes

Clothes are one of the biggest expenses you'll face as a college student because you will not have much money, savings, and income.

But there are ways to save money on your clothes budget by fixing them up and repurposing them.

For example, you can fix up your old worn clothes by re-sewing them or adding new fabric to them.

You can also turn old T-shirts and jeans into trendy dress robes or stylish pajama pants.

Or you can use your old clothes to create stylish home office outfits.

There are endless possibilities for how to save money on your clothing budget, and the best part is that you can do it without sacrificing style.

It's almost like getting a new outfit or even a new wardrobe.

So don't be afraid to fix up and repurpose your clothes - it may just be the best money-saving strategy you ever adopt!

15. Sell Your Clothing Items You Don’t Wear

If you're like most people, you probably have a lot of clothes that you don't wear.

Maybe you bought them, maybe your friends or family gifted them to you, or maybe you just never got around to wearing them.

Whatever the reason, it's time to get creative and sell your clothing items.

Doing this will help you save money on your wardrobe, and it will also help you get rid of any unwanted clothing and shoes that are taking up space in your home.

Here are a few tips for selling your clothing:

• List your clothing items on eBay or Amazon.

• Set a price that's fair for the condition of the item, and be sure to include shipping and handling costs.

• Take pictures of the clothing items so that potential buyers can get a clear idea of what they're buying.

• Let people know when the auction is finished so that they can make a bid.

• Be patient - it can take a while for buyers to find your clothing items, and you may have to wait several weeks or even months for the auction to end. But if you're patient, selling your clothing items will pay off in the long run!

Key Takeaways

You don’t have to spend lots of money on clothes shopping.

You just have to know where to shop, how to shop, and when to shop.

Now you know how to save money when you are shopping for clothes.

Use the tips above to find the best money-saving opportunities and get the most bang for your buck when shopping on a budget.

For related articles on ways to save money when spending check out our Spend Less and Save Money page.