5 Ways to Get 90% OFF Designer Kid’s Clothes.
by HANNAH RUSSELL-DAVIS
in OTHER STUFF, PARENTING
There is hardly ever a need to pay full price for kids clothes — even the super nice wear-to-a-wedding ones. Kids grow so fast that their clothes are usually “used” before they are barely worn. So, today we’ll cover 5 ways we dress our kids for a fraction of the full price tag.
1. Easy Amazon Deals
Amazon.com offers huge discounts on clearance items. The trick has always been finding them. We’ve made this a snap with the links below.
Amazon.com Baby & Kid’s Clothes Discounts
90% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
80% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
70% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
60% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
50% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
40% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
30% OFF – Baby & Kid’s Clothes.
2. Clothing Stores – The Markdown Schedule
Clothing stores such as GapKids, Old Navy and Target drop prices dramatically when they need to make room for new inventory. I’ve managed to buy stuff for my kids at 50-90% off by shopping off-season for the upcoming seasons. This is a great way to stock up on socks, tights, underwear, basic T-shirts, and other items that are impossible to find used. Grab a winter coat in February for $5, and you won’t be rushing out with your credit card next year at the first hint of snow.
All major retailers have a markdown schedule. Here is Target’s schedule. Note: This may vary from store to store. Ask a store employee about your particular location.
TARGET’s WEEKLY MARKDOWN SCHEDULE
Monday – Infants, Kids Clothes and Electronics.
Tuesday – Women’s Clothes and Domestics.
Wednesday – Men’s Clothes, Garden, Toys, Health and Beauty
Thursday – Lingerie, Shoes, Housewares, Sporting Goods, Luggage
Friday – Cosmetics, Hardware, Auto, Home Improvement and Jewelry
TARGET’s AFTER HOLIDAY SCHEDULE:
All holidays except Christmas follow the 3-3-2 rule:
The first 3 days after the holiday are 50% OFF.
The next 3 days are 75% OFF.
The next 2 days are 90% OFF.
After that it goes to salvage.
Below are some examples:
4th of July
July 5 = 50% OFF.
July 8 = 75% OFF.
July 10 = 90% OFF.
Halloween
Nov 1st = 50% OFF.
Nov 4th = 75% OFF.
Nov 7th = 90% OFF.
Other retailers may have slightly different schedules. Chat up an employee at your favorite store to get the inside scoop. Don’t forget to check retailers online coupons for updates and surprise sales.
3. Ebay For Box Lots
eBay! hosts another plethora of clothing options. Again, it helps if you’re willing to buy off season. The bargains here are usually in the “lots” of several items, and people trying to clear out the closet or get rid of inventory rather than make a huge profit. Narrow your search by size, gender, and specific brands that you like (e.g. gymboree girl 3).
4. Thrift Shops – The Designer Secret
Thrift shops are a great place to find really expensive, high-quality kid’s items in pristine condition. Why? Because people tend to “preserve” these designer items, not letting their kids wear them. I routinely find gorgeous stuff with the tags still attached. Since I’m only paying a couple bucks for it, I’ll definitely let my kids wear it!
Prices are low because the items are donated and the selection spans seasons, sizes and styles so you can afford to be quite selective. Warning: Knowing this little secret will turn you into a complete clothes snob. Once you know where to get Ralph Lauren for a few bucks, you’ll never buy clothes at Walmart!
THRIFT STORE TIPS:
1. Think Twice.
It’s very easy to get carried away when the prices are so low. So, think twice before you buy — no matter how cute and cheap they are.
2. No Returns
Usually the return policy at thrift shops is minimal to non-existant, so make sure you check for missing buttons, broken zippers and stains before you buy.
3. Consignment Stores
Consignment shops offer pre-screened, generally more-organized, high-quality items with a heftier price tag. Sometimes worth it, sometimes not.
5. Yard Sale Strategy
The best bargains are found at yard sales. Most of the time the seller just wants to get rid of stuff so the prices are rock bottom. Seek out sales in the Volvo-driving neighborhoods and your kid will soon have a designer wardrobe for less than the price of a nice bottle of wine.
YARD SALE TIPS:
1. Go early for the best selection.
2. Go late for the best prices.
3. Don’t be afraid to make an offer — “Can I take all of these for $5?”
General Bargain Hunting Tips:
Think Ahead.
If you’re willing to shop off-season and ahead a few sizes, you can get great quality at bargain prices, and avoid those last-minute expensive shopping sprees. Invest in some plastic storage bins, make some labels and you’re all set. Organizing this stuff is essential — otherwise you’ll end up buying more than you need and not using it.
(REF URL http://www.familyhack.com/2009/03/16/kids-clothes/)
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