Teen Girls' Guide to Budget School Clothes Shopping

Buying school clothes on a budget is not exactly a teen girl's dream, but you can be fashionable without spending a fortune. Begin by looking in your closet and seeing what will work for the school year. Then make a list of the things you need. Make the most of your budget by using these tips to learn where to shop and how to choose the best clothes for school.

Look beyond name brands and mall stores.
Name brand clothing is not automatically better. Believe it or not, Walmart sells some clothes similar to those at mall stores. Cute shirts with cartoon characters, abstract designs or funny phrases cost nearly twenty dollars at the mall. Walmart has them for less than ten dollars.

Focus on the basics.
Today's hot trend is tomorrow's fashion disaster. Focus on the basics, especially if your school clothes budget is tight. Glitzy, feathered jeans are not very versatile and you will probably look silly wearing them week after week. Be sure to choose some basic pieces that you can wear many different ways. For example, dark denim jeans look great with a simple t-shirt or a dressy top.

Choose cheap trendy pieces.
If you cannot resist trying the latest fad, do it cheaply. Look for a few inexpensive tops and accessories at affordable stores such as Forever 21. Typically, these bargain fashions are not the best quality, but serve as a cheap way to rock a trendy look before it goes out of style.

Know the school's dress code.
Read the school's latest dress code before going shopping. When shopping for shorts and skirts, remember they may shrink a little in the laundry. Make sure your choices meet the school's guidelines.

Embrace thrift stores.
Thrift stores are an excellent source of affordable clothing and cool vintage finds. Take the time to dig around in search of hidden gems. Look closely to check for stains, damage or tears before you hit the check out.

Check the clearance rack first.
Make a habit of scanning the clearance racks first. You never know what you will find there.

Stretch your wardrobe.
Get creative and extend the life of your wardrobe. For example, adding a strip of lace or fabric to the hem can revive an old skirt or add extra length. Adding a pair of thick tights and a long sleeved shirt or jacket can make a summer dress suitable for cooler fall weather.