This following is a frugal tip from Simply Frugal reader, Lorraine!
I thought I would simply drop you a line about how I try to stretch the clothing budget. Rather than buy clothing at the beginning of a season when items are at the highest prices, we wait until the very last two weeks of the season when clothing goes on sale for 80% – 90% off. We shop the quality clothing stores and although we do not spend a fortune, we are well clothed with items that last a few years. We also tend to buy mostly classic styles that are fashionable for many years and build onto the basic wardrobe of dark slacks and dresses and add a touch of colour in the tops or jackets. For instance, I purchased two jackets lately. One was marked at a regular price of $195.00 and the other was marked at the regular price of $145.00. I got the first one for $39.99 and the second one for $19.99. I purchased slacks that were originally priced at $110.00 for $29.99. Last March, I purchased a value of $899.00 worth of clothing for the frugal sum of $215.00 with tax. The secret is to drop into the store often and keep an eye on a piece of clothing that you need and wait until it is the best price it will be during that season. Then, ask the store manager if you can get a further reduction later on if the item is further reduced. Many stores will give you the lowest price within a certain time frame. The store I deal with has a two week grace period, so I drop in once every week during that period and check to see if the item is further reduced and take advantage of further reductions if they apply.
I pretty well use the same concept for all of our purchases and shop when the sale cycle for items is in effect. By having a good stockpile, this allows me to wait out the sales and stretch our budget further and be able to treat ourselves to occasional wants versus needs.
I hope this information helps your readers as I am sure that most of them are in the same boat as most Canadians just trying to live on a budget while still enjoying life’s little pleasures.
Thanks Lorraine!
