A big chunk of our budget goes on clothing our kids – particularly our teenagers (how do they wear out their clothes and shoes so quickly?) so we’re always looking for ways to kit them out for less.
Luckily though, it’s actually pretty easy to shop smart and grab some great bargains for our fashion-conscious brood.
All it takes is a little effort and a pinch of ingenuity. Here, we show you how:
1. Host a clothes swap
Clothes swaps are brilliant for so many reasons: you can clear out things you don’t need, pick up some great items in fantastic condition, and enjoy a glass of wine and a natter with your friends. And setting one up is so easy – just set up an event page on Facebook inviting your friends to take part in your swap, specifying the clothes age groups to bring along.
Our top tip: The more the merrier (and the better chance of grabbing some quality gear) so encourage your friends to ask their pals along too.
2. Shop at clever times
As well as mid-season and end-of-season sales, there are sales pretty much all year round, so be patient and wait before buying anything. And by the same token, buying three seasons ahead is a good idea too. For example, buy winter coats at the end-of-winter sales for the following year – you’ll save heaps on a quality, staple item.
Our top tip: If you’re not sure when the sales are going to be, do some sleuthing. If you ask a shop assistant (very nicely!) they might just give you the scoop on when the next sale is coming around.
4. Suggest gifts cards as presents
When birthdays and Christmas come around, family members often ask what gift they should get your kids. So suggest a gift card for a clothing store. They’re practical, and your kids will love popping to the store with you to pick out their new outfits.
Our top tip: Exchange those unwanted Christmas presents for clothes for the kids.
3. Shop for those deals online
If you haven’t before, now is the time to dip your toe into the world of online shopping. While nothing replaces the feeling of browsing in a real shop, you can get some fantastic bargains on the web, particularly the likes of footwear. Many online shops have a permanent sale section so check in regularly at the stock coming in and you’re bound to hit the bargain jackpot.
Our top tip: Many sites offer an attractive first order discount, so take the time to sign up. If you don’t want these mails coming to your regular email, set one up especially for online shopping.
5. Scout for coupons and special discounts
Keep an eagle eye out for any potential discounts, like those on the back of receipts, online discount codes, or reward schemes. In particular, Electric Ireland is offering heaps of discounts in popular stores as part of its rewards programme for customers – including 15 per cent off purchases from Lifestyle Sports, 20 per cent off at Regatta Great Outdoors and 15 per cent off at Skechers stores nationwide.
Top tip: Use your discount to take the sting out of the ‘bigger’ items like coats, jackets and footwear.
For more info on Electric Ireland Rewards pop over to electricirelandrewards.ie.
