27 Ways to Save Money on Clothing

As fashion trends evolve at a rapid pace, it can be tempting to constantly update our wardrobes to keep up with the latest styles. However, this frequent pursuit of new clothing can quickly take a toll on our finances. The good news is that saving money on clothing doesn’t mean sacrificing your sense of style or settling for less. With a little bit of creativity, planning, and a keen eye for opportunities, you can build a fabulous wardrobe while keeping your budget intact. We’ll explore some practical and effective ways to save money on clothing without compromising on quality or fashion-forwardness. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or someone seeking to tighten the purse strings, these tips will help you revamp your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to stylish savings.

1. Buy basics from generic brands

If you’re getting clothes to wear under other things like tank tops or plain T-shirts, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on expensive brands. Since these pieces won’t be visible, and their main purpose is to protect your nicer shirts from sweat, it’s better to buy them from affordable stores. Look for simple styles and solid colors that don’t require a fancy designer label. This way, you can save money and still get the basics you need.

2. Buy clothing out of season

We all know how exciting it can be to buy things before the season arrives. For example, even when it’s freezing outside, getting a light summer dress can make us feel like spring is just around the corner. But the thing is, when we buy ahead of time, we usually end up paying the highest price. However, if we shop for things that are not in demand at the moment, we can get much better deals. It might feel a bit strange to buy a warm sweater when it’s scorching hot outside, but it can actually save us a lot of money. Retailers often put out-of-season clothes on sale to clear their stock. So, buying a coat in May or a swimsuit in December can lead to big savings.

3. Buy one really great swimsuit

When you’re getting ready for a vacation, it’s tempting to buy lots of cheap and fun swimwear. However, this cheap stuff may end up costing you more in the long run. Not only will you have to buy more of it because it won’t last, but it will also become saggy, stretched, or see-through quickly. Instead, it’s better to invest in one really nice, well-made swimsuit and make it last. After you wear it, rinse it or soak it in cold water to remove lotion, sunscreen, and other oils that can damage and fade the fabric. Then, let it dry naturally. By taking good care of it and having a good swimsuit, you can use it for up to three years.

4. Use coupon apps to score a better deal

There are many useful apps available today, and it’s no surprise that there are plenty of great coupon apps too. One example is Yowza, a free app for Android and iOS. It uses your location to find coupons for stores near you, both big chains and local shops. Another app called Coupon Sherpa is also helpful. It allows you to search for coupons at various places like stores and restaurants. You can even save your favorite stores in the app and receive updates when they have special offers.

5. Befriend a salesperson

Do you have a favorite store where you love to shop? It’s a good idea to get to know one of the salespeople there. It can be beneficial because you’ll receive better service, and they can give you information about upcoming sales and deals. If there’s something you really like but it’s too expensive, you can ask your friendly salesperson to set it aside for a few days until it goes on sale, and then you can buy it at a lower price.

6. Only buy what you can actually pay for

If you don’t have enough money, it’s better to avoid buying things. One way to control your spending is to only purchase clothes with cash. When you physically hand over dollars, it makes you more aware of the money you’re spending compared to using a credit card. Even if the total amount is the same, paying with cash feels more real. If you do use a card, make sure you can pay off the full balance when the payment is due. Paying interest on your clothes means you end up paying more money for them.

7. Remember that cheap isn’t free

Sometimes, you can get really excited about a great deal and feel like you absolutely have to buy something. You’re a savvy shopper and imagine telling everyone about the amazing bargain. But before you make a purchase, take a moment to make sure you genuinely want the item. Don’t let the low price blind you to whether or not you actually need it.

8. Use the one in, one out rule

If you want to control your spending, try following this simple rule: Whenever you buy a new piece of clothing, shoes, or accessories, you should give away one similar item to charity. So, before you can add something new to your collection, you have to let go of something you already have. It might seem challenging, but it can make a big difference between having just enough clothes and saving money versus having too many things, a full closet, and a drained bank balance.

9. Try Out Thrift Stores

If you want to find cheap clothes and also support a good cause, thrift shops are the way to go. They offer some of the lowest prices you can find, especially if it’s a thrift shop that donates its profits to charity. However, thrifting can require some effort. You’ll need to spend time looking through the items to find what you like. Some big thrift retailers like Goodwill have started separating designer and popular brand items onto special racks, which makes it easier to find them. If you find something you like in your size, it’s a great deal because you won’t find it cheaper anywhere else. But if it’s not your size, you won’t have much luck.

10. Sell what you don’t wear

If you have clothes that you don’t wear, you can take them to a consignment shop. The shop will sell your clothes and give you some money from the sales. You won’t get all the money, but you won’t have to do much work either. Stacy suggests going through your closet once a year. If you haven’t worn a sweater in a year, you probably don’t need it anymore.

11. Skip expensive workout clothing

While it’s tempting to splurge on fancy activewear brands that promise maximum comfort and style, there are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives that can help us stay fit without breaking the bank. Skip the expensive workout clothing and opt for affordable options that still provide the functionality you need. Many discount retailers and online platforms offer a wide range of affordable workout gear that is both comfortable and durable. Remember, it’s the exercise itself that matters most, not the brand name on your clothing. By making smart choices and prioritizing functionality over high price tags, you can save a significant amount of money while still looking and feeling great during your workouts.

12. Shop discount stores

These stores offer a wide range of clothing items at significantly reduced prices, making it easier to stick to your budget without compromising on style. Whether you’re looking for trendy pieces, basic essentials, or even designer brands at a fraction of the cost, discount stores have got you covered. From outlet malls to online clearance sales, these stores are a treasure trove of hidden gems, where you can find fashionable clothing without breaking the bank.

13. Borrow what you only need once

If you only need to wear something once, ask a friend or family member if you can borrow it. This way, you’ll save all the money you would have spent on buying it, and you won’t end up with a dress or suit that you don’t need taking up space in your closet.

14. Don’t rent what you’ll wear more than once

Avoid renting items that you know you’ll wear more than once. While clothing rental services can be convenient for special occasions or one-time events, the cost can add up if you find yourself repeatedly renting the same type of garment. Instead, consider investing in classic, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. By purchasing these staple items, you’ll save money in the long run and have a reliable wardrobe that can be worn repeatedly without incurring rental fees.

15. Shop the men’s and kids’ section

Sometimes, when you’re a woman looking for basic clothing like a T-shirt or hoodie, you might notice that the prices are higher compared to men’s and kids’ clothing. But here’s a tip: before checking the women’s section, take a look at the racks in the men’s and kids’ sections. You might find what you need there, and it could be cheaper too.

16. Buy clothes that fit now

Only buy clothes if you can wear them right away. It’s not a good idea to buy something that is too small, hoping that you will lose weight in the future. Even if you do, you might not like how the clothes look on you. In the end, you will have wasted your money.

17. Have a fashionable friend style what you have

We all have that one friend with an impeccable sense of style, and their expertise can be invaluable in creating fresh and fashionable outfits from the pieces you already own. By inviting them over for a styling session, you’ll not only save money on new clothes but also discover hidden gems in your wardrobe that you may have overlooked. Your friend’s keen eye for fashion can help you experiment with different combinations, mix and match items, and breathe new life into your existing garments. With their guidance, you’ll be surprised at how effortlessly chic and trendy you can look, all while saving a significant amount of money.

18. Wash your clothes less often

While maintaining personal hygiene and cleanliness is important, it’s worth noting that not all garments require frequent washing. By understanding the care instructions and fabric types of your clothes, you can identify items that can be worn multiple times before needing a wash. This not only reduces water and energy consumption but also prolongs the lifespan of your garments, saving you money in the long run. Embracing this sustainable approach to laundry can be a win-win situation for both your wallet and the environment.

19. Shop online clearance sales

if you’re looking to save money without sacrificing your sense of style, shopping online clearance sales is a game-changer. These virtual treasure troves offer incredible discounts on clothing items from previous seasons, allowing you to snag trendy pieces at a fraction of their original price. With just a few clicks, you can explore a wide variety of online stores, compare prices, and find fantastic deals on everything from designer brands to everyday essentials.

20. You Can Find Great Deals Through Store Memberships

Many retailers offer exclusive memberships that provide access to special discounts, promotions, and early access to sales. By signing up for these programs, you can stay updated on the latest deals and snag great discounts on your favorite clothing items. Moreover, some store memberships offer rewards programs where you can earn points for every purchase, which can be redeemed for additional savings or even free clothing items. So, whether you prefer shopping in-store or online, consider joining store memberships to unlock fantastic deals and maximize your clothing budget.

21. Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of timeless, versatile, and high-quality pieces carefully curated to create numerous outfits. By focusing on essential items that can be mixed and matched, you can significantly reduce your spending on clothing while still looking effortlessly chic. Embrace the minimalist philosophy and invest in quality basics like a classic white shirt, a well-fitted pair of jeans, a little black dress, and versatile accessories that can elevate any outfit. By consciously selecting pieces that withstand the test of time, you’ll not only save money in the long run but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly fashion industry. So, bid farewell to impulse buys and welcome the simplicity and elegance of a capsule wardrobe, where less truly becomes more.

22. Go for Better Quality Clothes

Many people think that expensive clothes are always better quality, but that’s not always true. When you consider the cost per wear, you’ll realize that good-quality clothes are actually cheaper in the long run. Take shoes or suits, for example. Well-known brands tend to be pricey, but they last a long time and can be worn for various occasions. On the other hand, cheap clothes may seem like a good deal initially, but you’ll end up spending more money buying multiple low-quality items compared to investing in a single pair of high-quality shoes, like ‘Giorgio Brutini’ shoes.

23. Buy the Clothes That Suit You Best

When you go shopping for clothes, it’s important to choose things that match your style and fit you well. This way, you can save money in the long run because you won’t need to buy new clothes to replace ones that don’t fit. It may seem obvious, but it can be tricky to find clothes that really suit you, especially with so many options available. Sometimes people buy a lot of things but then never end up wearing them.

If you want to buy clothes that go well together, here’s a helpful tip. When you find a nice piece of clothing, try to imagine at least three other clothes you already have that would look good with it. Also, think about three different situations or events where you could wear them. If you can easily come up with these ideas, then it’s a good idea to buy that piece of clothing. But if you can’t think of any matches or occasions, it’s better to not buy it.

24. Beware of Fashion Trends

Fashion trends change every day, and it’s easy to get caught up in buying lots of clothes to keep up with them. But this can lead to spending too much money and ending up with a big wardrobe full of clothes you don’t really need. Eventually, these clothes just sit in your closet, unused, or you end up giving them away to charity. So, when you want to follow fashion trends, it’s important to choose items that you truly like and that match your personal style, instead of buying cheap, trendy clothes that won’t last long.

25. Payment with Cash versus Payment with Cards

In today’s modern world, where plastic dominates our wallets, it’s easy to overlook the benefits of good old-fashioned cash when it comes to saving money on clothing purchases. While credit and debit cards offer convenience and security, paying with cash can be a game-changer for those looking to tighten their budget and maximize their savings. By embracing the tangible power of cash, you can regain control over your spending habits and potentially cut back on unnecessary clothing expenses.

One of the significant advantages of using cash for clothing purchases is the heightened awareness it brings. When you physically hand over your hard-earned money, you become more conscious of the value and cost of the items you’re purchasing. Unlike swiping a card, where the transaction feels almost effortless, counting out cash forces you to pause and evaluate whether the clothing piece is truly worth the monetary exchange. This mindful approach can help curb impulsive shopping tendencies and steer you towards making more considered, budget-friendly decisions.

26. Take care of your clothes

Remember, just because something can be washed in a machine doesn’t mean it can’t be damaged. To make your clothes last longer, wash them using a gentle cycle and cool water. It’s best to air dry them on a line. For delicate items or clothes that might shrink, it’s better to wash them by hand. By taking good care of your clothes, you can enjoy wearing them for many years.

27. Don’t buy it because it’s on sale

One common mistake many people make is buying items simply because they are on sale. While it’s tempting to take advantage of discounted prices, this approach can quickly lead to overspending and accumulating a closet full of items that are rarely worn or even forgotten. Instead, focus on purchasing clothing that you truly need or have been actively searching for, regardless of whether it’s on sale or not. By adopting a mindful shopping mindset, you can avoid impulse purchases and make more intentional decisions that align with your personal style and budget. Remember, the best way to save money on clothing is not by chasing discounts, but by making smart choices based on your individual needs and preferences.

Conclusion:

Saving money on clothing doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or quality. By implementing these strategies and being mindful of your spending habits, you can build a fashionable and budget-friendly wardrobe. Remember to prioritize your needs over wants, shop during sales and clearance periods, explore secondhand options, and make the most of online resources and discount codes. Additionally, consider organizing clothing swaps with friends or family to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime. With a little creativity and planning, you can dress well while keeping your finances in check.