Back to School Clothes Shopping: Some Helpful Tips

Back to school shopping doesn't need to be taxing, especially if you have a plan. I suggest you start one as soon as possible and get out early so that you have a good selection! If your children don't wear uniforms, I suggest you have at least one outfit (top and bottom pair) or dress for each day of the week. Needs will vary according to age, and gender. Helpful tips:

1. Take inventory. Go through their current clothes and see what is worn and torn and what is in good condition. Start with socks, underwear, t-shirts, and then go to shirts, pants, shorts, sweaters, hoodies, and coats (in the colder areas of the country) and finally shoes. This also applies if your children wear uniforms.
2. Evaluate each item and discard those that are not in good condition. Think about donating items in good condition, but no longer fit or cannot used by another member of the family. Also check out kids consignment stores in your area if you have items that can be reused and sold.
3. Now that you have evaluated what you have, and know what you need...you are ready to refresh/restock...purchase items. Make a list of the items they need, so you don't forget.
4. Start with the basics first: (socks, underwear, t-shirts) 10-15 pairs of socks and underwear. This way you are giving yourself some cushion before having to do laundry. 
5. After the basics have been purchased, then start on shirts/tops, pants (and/or jeans), shorts, sweaters, hoodies, and shoes. Sweaters, hoodies and coats can be purchased a little later, since stores may have a greater selection a bit later in the early fall and the best prices for these items may also be later, depending on where you live.
6. Focus on comfy clothes. School age kids have long days, there school clothes should be comfortable (comfy but stylish) especially if you have teenagers and they should have enough outfits to last  the whole week, so you don’t have to do laundry (maybe).
7. Keep in mind they may need 3 or more nicer outfits. There is picture day and other special days/events, etc.) Don’t let it catch you by surprise, be ready!
8. Start your search for coupons (for in-store and on-line deals) now and look for the back-to-school sales, and tax free days to save money. Read coupons carefully, so that you know exactly what they are offering and you are aware of the expiration dates.
9. Have a budget. Determine how much money you have to spend.
10. Stay hydrated and fed (you and the kids if they are part of the shopping trips), otherwise the mood and the energy levels take a deep dive. The idea, is to maintain a stable blood sugar level through the day.