10 Ways to Save Money on Clothes

If your clothing budget has taken a hit lately, learn how to save money on clothes - and still look fab - with these easy tips.

1. Shop with Cash (Only!)
I can't believe I am suggesting this, considering my former love affair with store credit, but the easiest way to save money on clothes is to only buy what you can afford, plain and simple. If you don't have money in your checking account for those N5,000 must-have evening gown, then you'll have to save up to get 'em.


2. Buy what you require not what you want.
 We love to shop and want a lot of clothes but most of the times it is better to check your wardrobe and see what you require than what you want. If winter is around the corner don't buy clothes for the summer just because they are trendy. Buy clothes needed for winter. You can buy clothes for summer when the winter is about to end.

3. Shop Out of Season
Seasoned shoppers never hit the mall when new clothes hit the racks. Shop for spring and summer items in the fall, and buy your fall and winter looks when spring rolls around.

4. Look for Online Deals
Sign up for email newsletters from retailers, and they'll send you coupons and keep you abreast of their latest sales. There are entire websites devoted to mining the net for coupons, but searching through them can be a major time waster. These sites make the bargain hunting easier:

5. Don't Be Lured by a Sale
It is worth mentioning that all of those "sale" alerts and coupons can result in overspending (I am certain the Sephora emails alone have cost me hundreds), so think of the clothing deals like grocery store coupons and don't buy anything just because it's on sale.

6. Shop Trends Carefully
What to buy depends on your budget and the season, but some trends seem destined to pass quickly (harem pants, anyone?) and should be avoided by the budget-conscious. Spend the bulk of your wardrobe budget on quality pieces you can update around, and look for deals on the trendier looks.

7. Think in Color Palattes
Building a wardrobe around one or two color families can help you figure out what to buy (and avoid). If your entire closet is black and gray, for example, don't buy lots of navy, even if it's a hot trend. Keep your current wardrobe in mind when you shop, and don't buy anything that won't go with at least two or three other items that you own.

8. Shop Vintage and Consignment
With so many trends from the past cropping up again, it's worth hitting your local thrift store to shop for vintage boots or fringed bags. You can make money on clothes you don't want while shopping for new looks at consignment stores, or even take part in a clothing swap with friends. It may take longer to find exactly what you are looking for at a used clothing store than at a traditional retailer, so be patient!

9. Learn How to Sew
Learning how to make a few, simple alterations can save you lots of money, but not everyone has the aptitude or attitude to learn how to tailor jeans or a skirt. Start by mastering basics like replacing buttons and hemming pants and you may find yourself inspired to try more elaborate projects.
10. Care for Your Clothing
It's worth a reminder that caring for your clothes will help them last longer (yes, Mom, you were right!). Use gentle fabrics, avoid the dryer when possible (always when it comes to those designer jeans) and hang and fold clothes properly.