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Step 1
Sift through your kids' closets to find items that they can still wear in summer before you buy anything new. For example, short-sleeved and polo shirts that you considered more "dressy" last fall can probably be downgraded to become play clothes this summer. You can also turn long-sleeved shirts into tank tops and pants into shorts with simple alterations.
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Step 2
Round out their wardrobe with shorts, tanks, t-shirts and swimsuits that coordinate with the existing items. Because tanks and shirts don't have to fit perfectly to look good, consider buying them in a larger size so your kids will also be able to wear them next fall or summer.
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Step 3
Buy each child one dressy outfit in case you're invited to a summer party or a formal event like a wedding or graduation. Browse through outlet stores or consignment shops to find bargains. Also look at discount stores that feature designer "irregulars" with only minor imperfections.
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Step 4
Add a few pairs of shoes for summer since your kids may have outgrown the shoes from their school wardrobe. Consider a pair of tennis shoes for walking on vacations, flip-flops for the pool and a pair of nice sandals that they can wear with shorts and dresses or slacks.
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Step 5
Stock up on next year's summer clothing as this summer comes to an end. Take advantage of deep discounts to buy several t-shirts, shorts and tank tops in classic colors and styles. If your kids are fashion conscious, however, steer clear of trendy patterns, cuts and lengths that they'll reject a year from now.
