How to Budget Money for Clothes for Teenagers

A budget helps set parameters when your teen shops.

In-demand clothing brands for teens often come with a high price tag. Teens who are involved in many activities need different types of clothing to match the activities. For example, a teen involved in sports needs athletic clothing in addition to her regular school clothing. A budget for your teen's clothing keeps the spending under control so her wardrobe doesn't drain money that needs to go to other family expenses.

Instructions

1. List the types of clothing your teen needs. Consider clothing needs for school, weekends, social activities and groups he participates in, like sports or volunteer organizations.

2. Look through your teen's closet and dresser with her to determine which clothing items are still functional. Decide on the type and amount of clothing needed in each category based on the pieces she already has that are still usable.

3. Decide if you are paying for all of your teen's clothing or if he will help with the costs. Look at your own household budget to determine how much you are able to put toward a new wardrobe for your teen.

4. Allocate the majority of the clothing budget to basic, versatile pieces in your teen's wardrobe, such as jeans, undergarments or casual tops. Specify the amount left for extras like fashionable shoes or a new handbag.

5. Shop with your teen to ensure the clothing budget goes to the appropriate types of clothing. Maximize the budget by shopping with your teen at discount stores, online auction sites or consignment shops that carry name brands.

References

• Mint.com: Keep Your Clothing Costs Under Control
• PBS Kids Go: Spending Smarts: What We Wear