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Before taking back-to-school shopping trips, parents should have a
frank discussion about budget limitations with their children. One
reason is that children and parents can have different expectations
about what the family can buy creating nasty in-store argument
when parents can not afford a popular brand of clothing or shoes.
To avoid this kind of unpleasant situation, parents should visit
with their children before the shopping trip to make them aware of
limitations for the item they are planning to buy.
Before heading for the mall to shop for school clothing, here are
some other suggestions:
·
Inventory the present wardrobe. Clean
closets to see what is outgrown.
·
Decide on a price
limit for each item. This saves time and stops
overspending.
·
Make sure markdowns are real. Know
merchandise, quality and prices.
·
Look for signs of good
workmanship. (Double stitching, reinforced knees.)
·
Consider the cost of upkeep as a part of the
garment price. Dry cleaning significantly increases the
cost of the garment.
·
Shop in stores that have a reputation for quality
and fairness.
·
Measure the price against use. Pay more
for items that are used more frequently and less for occasional
items.
·
Spend time comparing quality and price in different
stores. The best quality at your price is the best buy
for you.
·
Buy less and wear it longer. Natural and
synthetic blend fibers wear longer.
·
Make repairs on the
present wardrobe to help garments last longer. Sew on
buttons, repair ripped seams and replace zippers to add life to a
garment.
·
Be alert to what is
available and to trends in style. A few garments of the
"latest style" can add pizzazz to a tired wardrobe.
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