Six Easy Steps (August 2007)
As summer winds down (already!), retailers kick into high gear with plenty of Back-to-School sales. Back-to-School shopping trips have become tradition in many households. Everyone must begin the new school year with the latest and greatest. That not only means the latest pair of jeans, but now includes the latest tennis shoes and electronic gadgets.
This year, challenge yourself and your children by starting some new traditions. This month’s Six Easy Steps will help you get started!
1. Count ‘em up!
Start by taking a clothing inventory. How many pairs of jeans do you have? Try things on and see what still fits. Surely you don’t want to be seen in “floods” after this summer’s growth spurt, but there may be some things you can still wear.
2. Summer chores = new clothes
Gardening, mowing, or hanging laundry out to dry are just some of the ways kids can help out around the house. Make each chore even more appealing by giving each project a value that can be “traded in” for a new shirt or music CD.
3. Needs vs. Wants.
No, you don’t need another white t-shirt. Make a list! Take an inventory of your clothes to determine what you really need. Set aside things that no longer fit for a garage sale or donation.
4. Plan one shopping trip.
One larger shopping trip (don’t forget your list!) to purchase the essentials will save time and money. A lot of smaller trips to many stores means spending more money and purchasing items that aren’t needed.
5. Garage sale
July or August are great times to clean out and have a garage sale. Children’s clothing items are best sellers! Money earned here can be used to purchase new things.
6. Resale shop
Rochester has many nice resale shops for gently worn, up-to-date clothing. Check them out for great deals!