Before buying new clothes go through your child's closet and drawers and take an 'inventory'. Check the fit of the clothes, don't assume they still do. The question is HOW is the fit? Write down on list #1 - the good ones and their colors on a piece of paper. Once written it will be easier to see what items are missing.

1- Do you have clothes that still fit but need a new look? Put those aside. Pass along the ones that are too small or that the child never wears. Make list #2 - of items you'll need to revive old clothes.

2- Make list #3 - of clothing that would help complete each set. This is where you can discuss the list with your children. Determine what's needed and wanted (especially with teenagers who might desperately want those $90 running shoes).
3- Establish a budget for each child. Not necessarily how much you WANT to spend but more on how much you CAN spend for each child.

4- Can you make any of the clothes yourself? Summer fabric is usually on sale during the fall and the heavier fabric is on sale during the spring.

5- Take the summer (with your list) to shop at garage sales, thrifts shops and consignment stores. Anticipate growth and buy a size (or two) bigger.

6- Ask other parents, relative and friends to exchange 'hand-me-down' clothes.

7- For socks and underwear, shop at discount stores or factory outlets where they sell their irregulars at good prices. Be vigilant as the prices are not always better at the outlet mall. It's wise to shop around.

8- Use fabric paints on stained clothes or to decorate plain T-shirts. Appliqués and badges will also give a new look to a piece of clothing, especially the jeans with worn knees.

9- To give a face lift to a blouse, change the buttons. On girl's jeans or pants that are getting shorter, sew on a lace trim at the bottom for an additional length. Check your local department store or dollar store and see what other 'cute and in' thing you can sew on your child's clothes. suite101