How to Spend Less Money Shopping for Clothes

As the financial recession continues, our money seems to be more and more stretched. We middle class citizens becoming more aware of exactly where our money is going. It's not always easy to spend thoughtfully, but it is worth it. When those unexpected emergencies arise and call for a quick bundle of money, it's good to know you can pay the bills without totally jeopardizing your financial situation. We must have clothes, and wardrobe can take out a chunk out of our budget. Here are some ways to stretch those dollars a little further.

Shop Purposefully.

Cut out the recreational shopping. It has become an American pastime-cruising the mall. The problem arises when window-shopping evolves into needless purchasing. I love a bargain, and when I see a REDUCED sign, I can easily justify buying the item, even though I don't really need it, because IT IS ON SALE. If you stay out of the ocean, you won't get bit by a shark. If you stay out of the mall you won't waste your money on a sale-priced wool scarf that you will never wear.

Needs arise and you must venture out into the land of "give me your money". Instead of aimlessly roaming through the mall and hoping to find good deals, do your research before you leave home. Determine what clothing items you actually need. Maybe your favorite jeans are looking shabby. If you are starting a new job, you might need a couple of dressy tops and a classic skirt. Check out the sales in the newspaper or on line. Make a specific list of what you need and stick by it.

Look beyond brand names.

Just because a brand is recognizable does not necessarily mean it is higher quality. Break free of the mindset that gravitates toward the popular item before checking out the competition. When your resistance is strong, go into the "nicer" stores and analyze the clothing. Notice details like straight seams, tight buttons, neat zippers and well-sewn hems. Now you have a reference point. You can go to stores that are not considered high-end and look for the same types of details in the clothes. Always try on the fashion items before buying them. Sizes vary according to manufacturer and even according to the type of fabric.

Remake or repair items.

For those who can sew, this one sounds easy. If you are a needle-klutz, this tip may be somewhat intimidating. But, anybody can learn to replace a button or hem a garment. It brings me to tears to hear someone confess to throwing out a shirt because a button came off or the hem came loose in one spot. If you have never ventured into a fabric store and checked out the notions section, you have missed out on one of the great joys of life! Even guys can get excited about all the gadgets on the notion shelves! Besides buttons and thread, there are hundreds of tools used to make or repair anything made of fabric.

Make an exploratory trip to your local fabric store and expand your horizons! Buy some basic colors of buttons (white, black, brown, taupe), a package of hand needles and thread. If you are totally overwhelmed, the employees at these places love to help newcomers, so don't be shy about asking for assistance. There are many tutorials on the Internet to show you how to replace buttons or repair a hem. Instead of craving a new outfit, challenge yourself to see how long you can make the items in your closet last by making simple repairs.

These are just a few ideas to help you get out of the spending-trend and make your wardrobe dollars work for you.