How to Buy Brand Name Children's Clothing at a Discount

There’s no doubt about it-high quality children’s clothing holds up longer than inexpensive clothing. If you like the look and style of brand name children’s clothing—but not the price—here are some tips for buying brand name children’s clothes at a discount.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Transportation to shopping malls
• An email address for mailing lists
• Good credit

1. Check eBay. Many people sell their used children’s clothing on eBay.com. If you find a reputable seller (which you can do by checking their feedback rating and comments from previous buyers) you can come away with some great deals. Do a search on eBay.com for the brands and sizes you are looking for (for example: Ralph Lauren 3T). All of the current listings for that brand and size will come up. If you are only interested in purchasing new clothing, add “NWT” to your search criteria. “NWT” stands for “new with tags.” You will be amazed at how many people have clothes that their children never wore—still with the tags on them!
2. Consignment shops. Check local consignment shops for high quality children’s clothing. You will usually find a mix of used and new clothing. Rest assured, most consignment shop owners are scrupulous about the condition of the clothing they will sell in their shop, usually only selling clothing in like-new condition. They scour the garments for any signs of stains or rips, so you can be sure the clothing will be in good shape.
3. Check out Gymboree. One of the most popular children’s clothing stores is Gymboree. But the retail price for most items is a little high. Luckily, Gymboree has great sales and great incentives. The Gymbucks program, which is offered several times a year, gives you the chance to earn merchandise credit for future purchases. When the Gymbucks program is running, you’ll earn a $25 certificate for every $50 you spend. Another great Gymboree promotion is their Circle of Friends programs. Get on Gymboree’s email list and you’ll get periodic emails offering you 30 percent off your entire order. You can inquire about Circle of Friends by calling Gymboree customer service at [phone].
4. Get a store credit card. Most stores offer discounts and/or merchandise credits if you use their store credit card. Children’s clothing stores like Gymboree, Baby Gap and The Children’s Place all offer some incentives. If you use their cards, just make sure that you pay the balance off in full every month—otherwise you’ll accrue interest and then you’re defeating the purpose of buying at discount!
5. Check out end of season sales. At the end of each season, all stores offer major markdowns. The trick is trying to determine what size your child will be wearing next year. If your child is on a normal growth curve, use your judgment to determine the size and stock up for the next season. Some of the best months to buy end of season clothing are January and September, but shop year round and keep your eyes open for the clearance racks.
6. Shop at outlets. If you live near an outlet mall, look for deals on last year’s merchandise. Beware of outlet shopping, though—-you have to know prices to really find the deals. Some outlets offer only a few discounted items while the rest of the store is marked at retail. If you’re a bargain shopper and know what the going rates are, you should come away with some great deals on children’s clothes.
7. Be a coupon hound. Get on the mailing lists for all your favorite children’s stores so they will send you coupons. Most children’s stores have periodic coupon mailings offering you 15 or 20 percent off your entire purchase. These coupons, coupled with already marked down sale prices, can net you some great deals!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't charge your purchases unless you can afford to pay the balance off in full each month. Otherwise, any savings you net will be offest by the interest you will accrue.