Last Minute Back to School Shopping? Buy Used Clothing and Save!
Whether you’re college-bound, or have a few kids to outfit for the new school year, buying gently used clothing from a second hand store makes good sense.
Putting off this yearly shopping event seems prudent sometimes. You’ve got to see how much is left in the budget after paying for the seemingly endless list of sports team fees and permits, supplies, and books.
It’s an expensive time of year for many people. Clothing needs are frequently pushed to the bottom of the “must have now” list. But you really don’t need to procrastinate on back-to-school shopping when you can purchase great used clothing at significantly reduced prices.
Elementary School Students
How about $2 to $4 for a child’s pair of name brand jeans, a $1.50 for children’s shoes, or maybe $4 for a barely worn pair of name brand boots or stylish sport sneaks? Shoes are so costly – even for kids – when you choose to buy new at retail prices.
By buying shoes at used clothing stores you won’t cringe when she splashes through the schoolyard mud puddle or cry when he leaves them on the bus after that football game, as you might be tempted to do after buying school and sport shoes at extravagant retail prices.
With so many cute and affordable tees and skirts, jeans and sweatshirts to choose from in their closets, you won’t find yourself doing laundry as often either! Buying recycled kid’s clothing is such a responsible way to be both environment and budget conscious.
Junior High and High School Students
Second hand stores are invaluable for thrifty and fashion-conscious older students as well. How much did those brand name fashion jeans cost at the retail shop? Consider your gently used options – they are already broken in and comfy.
A $12 designer dress for the back to school party you are already anticipating, with heels and bag to match for another $8 is the way to go and still feel in-style.
Uniforms
Uniform slacks for private schools needed? Navy and khaki pants of all kinds abound at thrift shops. You will save so much in back to school shopping at used clothing shops like the Arc Stores. You can even try to anticipate those growth spurts and buy those extra adorable items for winter too.
School Supplies
Backpacks and sports bags are costly too, and few kids can make do with last year’s dilapidated bag. Gently used backpacks and rolling bags can really stretch the budget. Thrift stores often receive donations of office supplies and backpacks. Sometimes textbooks can be found there for those willing to hunt through the stacks.
After School Sports & Activities
If you have always wanted to learn how to skate, play racket ball, ski, draw, camp or knit and have found a like-minded campus activity group, shopping at second hand stores can make purchasing supplies and equipment actually do-able this year.
You really never know what you can fit into your budget until you try! Utilizing your resources, and local used clothing store can really help you save money this school year. So, if you’ve procrastinated on your school shopping, go “thrifting” and you might actually be happy you did!
